University of South Carolina Aiken

USCA offers 32 bachelor's degrees across its College of Sciences & Engineering and School of Education, with particular strength in:

• Business, Management, and Marketing (most popular major)
• Health Professions
• Education Programs ([14], [15], [16])

The university touts a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention in a predominantly undergraduate environment ([18]). While the College of Sciences & Engineering markets itself as one of South Carolina's top programs in the field, the institution's 43% graduation rate (per College Board) suggests academic challenges for some students ([18], [25]). The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, with the School of Education explicitly framing its mission around preparing graduates for real-world classroom challenges ([16]).

With 76% of students living off-campus, USCA has a commuter-school vibe, though its Instagram presence heavily markets the "family" atmosphere of its 24% residential population ([23], [21]). The Division of Student Affairs organizes:

• Greek life (mentioned but no statistics provided)
• Community service programs
• Multicultural activities
• Intramural sports through Campus Recreation ([19], [22])

A 2023 student handbook reveals an active but small-scale campus life, with traditions and organizations typical of a regional public university ([24]). The international student program emphasizes cultural exchange, though participation numbers aren't specified ([20]).

USCA's outcomes present a mixed picture:

• 40-43% graduation rate (bottom 20% nationally)
• 74% 'career success rate' (employed, in grad school, or military within a year)
• $36,427 median earnings one year post-graduation ([25], [29], [28])

A 2023 graduate outcomes report shows 83% of respondents achieving career success, though the 74% knowledge rate suggests these figures may not capture all graduates ([29]). Rural graduates in South Carolina typically earn $55,600 after 10 years with associate degrees, but no comparable long-term data exists for USCA bachelor's recipients ([30]). Retention and graduation data is disaggregated by military affiliation, hinting at specialized support programs ([26]).

USCA positions itself as an affordable option:

• $11,872 average net price after aid
• 60.59% of students receive financial aid
• Offers FAFSA-based aid packages ([33], [31], [32])

The university provides a net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator that estimates costs after accounting for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses—though it emphasizes these are non-binding projections ([34], [36]). Compared to national averages, USCA's aid packages appear modest, with most students likely relying on federal loans and state grants ([35]).

USCA carves its niche through: 1. Hyper-accessible admissions (79% acceptance vs. 59% avg. for SC public universities) 2. Strong regional employer connections in business and healthcare 3. Small-class environment at public university prices

While its graduation rates lag behind peers, the university serves as a critical access point for first-generation?First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. and rural students in the Central Savannah River Area. The Instagram-driven branding of a "family" community ([21]) aligns with its actual 16:1 faculty ratio—offering a rare combination of public funding and private-college attention at the undergraduate level.