University of South Carolina-Union

USC Union specializes in associate degrees (its highest offered degree, per U.S. News) but also provides select bachelor’s programs in Organizational Leadership, Nursing, and Liberal Studies. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills: written/verbal communication, computer technology, and critical thinking. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, classes are small and personalized. The campus also offers online options for flexibility, though most bachelor’s programs are delivered on-site. Notably, the university frames itself as a gateway for students planning to transfer to larger USC system schools.

Life at USC Union is community-focused, with a "balanced student-life program" that includes cultural events, leadership opportunities, and campus celebrations (like its 60th anniversary in 2025). While resources are modest compared to larger universities, students have access to:

• Flexible spaces for studying and collaboration (including a meditation room and game zone)
• Local engagement through events advertised via Facebook and Instagram
• Encouragement to participate in activities that build skills and cultural awareness

The campus lacks the buzz of a big school but compensates with a close-knit, supportive environment.

Graduation rates are modest but improving:

• 31.25% overall graduation rate (per federal data)
• 37.5% for the Fall 2020 cohort (a record high for the campus)

Retention rates are not prominently published, but the university highlights career-ready skills in its degree programs. Salary data for graduates is sparse, though USC system-wide reports suggest median earnings of $69,220 for bachelor’s holders. Many students likely use USC Union as a transfer pathway to larger institutions.

USC Union is one of the more affordable options in the USC system, especially for in-state students:

• In-state tuition: $7,558 (Niche) to $7,558 (BigFuture)
• Out-of-state tuition: $18,238
• Average aid package: $2,438 (BigFuture) to $8,477 (Niche)
• 100% of full-time undergraduates receive grant/scholarship aid

The university provides a Net Price Calculator to estimate costs, and notably offers tuition-free enrollment for South Carolina residents aged 60+.

USC Union’s niche is accessibility:

• No SAT/ACT requirement and a 62-70% acceptance rate?Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. lower barriers to entry
• Tuition-free for seniors 60+—a rare perk that fosters lifelong learning
• Small classes (15:1 ratio) and emphasis on transfer pathways cater to students who thrive with individualized attention
• Flexible degrees (including online options) suit working adults and commuters

It’s not a research powerhouse, but for South Carolinians seeking a low-cost, supportive start to higher education, it’s a pragmatic choice.