Furman University

Overview

Furman University, located in Greenville, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts university known for its rigorous academic programs, beautiful campus, and strong commitment to undergraduate research. Founded in 1826, Furman offers a range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

History

Furman University was founded in 1826 by the South Carolina Baptist Convention and named after Richard Furman, a prominent Baptist minister. Originally located in Edgefield, South Carolina, the university moved to Greenville in 1851. Furman became independent of the Baptist Convention in 1992, furthering its commitment to academic freedom and diversity.

Academic Offerings

Furman offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in biology, political science, psychology, and business administration. Furman emphasizes undergraduate research, with many students participating in research projects and presenting their work at conferences.

Student Life

Student life at Furman is vibrant and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features beautiful Georgian-style architecture, extensive green spaces, and a 40-acre lake. Furman emphasizes community service, leadership development, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Furman is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate research and experiential learning. The university’s Riley Institute promotes public policy research and civic engagement. Furman also offers a unique academic calendar with a May Experience term, allowing students to take intensive courses or participate in study abroad programs.

Admissions

Furman’s admissions process is selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 57%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a commitment to community service.

Alumni

Furman’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Secretary of Education Richard Riley, author Charles Frazier, and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham. Furman graduates are known for their contributions to politics, literature, and public service.

Wofford College

Overview

Wofford College, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics, close-knit community, and strong emphasis on leadership and service. Founded in 1854, Wofford offers a range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

History

Wofford College was founded in 1854 by Methodist minister Benjamin Wofford with a bequest to establish a college for the youth of the South. The college has a long history of academic excellence and a commitment to the liberal arts tradition. Wofford became independent of the Methodist Church in 1969, though it maintains a historical affiliation.

Academic Offerings

Wofford offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in biology, chemistry, English, and international affairs. Wofford emphasizes experiential learning, with many students participating in internships, research projects, and study abroad programs.

Student Life

Student life at Wofford is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Wofford emphasizes leadership development, community service, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Wofford is known for its strong emphasis on leadership and service. The college’s Bonner Scholars Program supports students committed to community service and social justice. Wofford also offers a unique Interim term in January, allowing students to take intensive courses or participate in internships and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Wofford’s admissions process is selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 61%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college values intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a commitment to community service.

Alumni

Wofford’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Congressman John Spratt, business leader Jerry Richardson, and author Philip E. Roth. Wofford graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and literature.

Converse University

Overview

Converse University, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on the arts, education, and women’s leadership. Founded in 1889, Converse offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Converse University was founded in 1889 by Dexter Edgar Converse with the mission of providing a quality education to young women. The university has grown significantly over the years, expanding its academic offerings and becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to women’s education and leadership.

Academic Offerings

Converse offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of the Arts, the School of Humanities, Sciences, and Education, and the School of Business and Professional Studies. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in music, education, and psychology.

Student Life

Student life at Converse is vibrant and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Converse emphasizes leadership development, community service, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Converse is known for its strong emphasis on the arts and women’s leadership. The university’s Petrie School of Music is renowned for its performance and academic programs. Converse also has a strong commitment to community service and experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Converse’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 81%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership and community service.

Alumni

Converse’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former South Carolina State Senator Nikki Setzler, author and educator Emily Wilson, and business leader Paula Harper Bethea. Converse graduates are known for their contributions to politics, education, and the arts.

Erskine College

Overview

Erskine College, located in Due West, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on Christian values, academic excellence, and community engagement. Founded in 1839, Erskine offers a range of undergraduate programs.

History

Erskine College was founded in 1839 by the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church with the mission of providing a Christian education that integrates faith and learning. The college has a long history of academic excellence and a commitment to the liberal arts tradition.

Academic Offerings

Erskine offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Division of Arts and Humanities, the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and the Division of Social Sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in biology, business administration, and theology.

Student Life

Student life at Erskine is vibrant and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Erskine emphasizes community service, spiritual growth, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Erskine is known for its strong emphasis on Christian values and community engagement. The college’s Chaplaincy Program supports students in their spiritual growth and service to others. Erskine also has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Erskine’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 74%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college values students who demonstrate a commitment to Christian values and community service.

Alumni

Erskine’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former South Carolina Governor John C. West, business leader W. Frank Blount, and educator and author Andrew C. Blackwood. Erskine graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and education.

Columbia College

Overview

Columbia College, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on women’s education, leadership development, and community service. Founded in 1854, Columbia College offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Columbia College was founded in 1854 by the South Carolina Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, with the mission of providing a quality education to young women. The college has grown significantly over the years, expanding its academic offerings and becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to women’s education and leadership.

Academic Offerings

Columbia offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Professional Studies, and the School of Education. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in education, business administration, and psychology.

Student Life

Student life at Columbia is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Columbia emphasizes leadership development, community service, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Columbia is known for its strong emphasis on women’s education and leadership. The college’s Leadership Institute offers programs and initiatives aimed at developing women leaders. Columbia also has a strong commitment to community service and experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Columbia’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 83%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college values students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership and community service.

Alumni

Columbia’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Congresswoman Liz Patterson, educator and author Emily S. Williamson, and business leader Andrea Henderson. Columbia graduates are known for their contributions to politics, education, and community service.

Newberry College

Overview

Newberry College, located in Newberry, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on personalized education, community engagement, and a supportive learning environment. Founded in 1856, Newberry offers a range of undergraduate programs.

History

Newberry College was founded in 1856 by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America with the mission of providing a quality liberal arts education. The college has a long history of academic excellence and a commitment to fostering a supportive and engaged learning community.

Academic Offerings

Newberry offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Department of Arts and Communications, the Department of Business Administration, the Department of Education, and the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in business, education, and the sciences.

Student Life

Student life at Newberry is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Newberry emphasizes community service, leadership development, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Newberry is known for its personalized education and supportive learning environment. The college’s Summerland Honors Program offers academically gifted students opportunities for advanced study and research. Newberry also has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Newberry’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 67%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college values students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership and community service.

Alumni

Newberry’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former South Carolina State Senator John Drummond, business leader James W. Tull, and educator and author William C. Davis. Newberry graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and education.

Limestone University

Overview

Limestone University, located in Gaffney, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, leadership development, and community engagement. Founded in 1845, Limestone offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Limestone University was founded in 1845 by Dr. Thomas Curtis and his son William Curtis with the mission of providing education to women in the South. The university became coeducational in the early 20th century and has since grown significantly, expanding its academic offerings and becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and leadership.

Academic Offerings

Limestone offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of Arts and Humanities, the School of Business, the School of Education and Social and Behavioral Sciences, and the School of Natural and Health Sciences. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business administration, education, and the sciences.

Student Life

Student life at Limestone is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Limestone emphasizes leadership development, community service, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Limestone is known for its strong emphasis on leadership development and community engagement. The university’s Honors Program offers academically gifted students opportunities for advanced study and research. Limestone also has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Limestone’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 52%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership and community service.

Alumni

Limestone’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former South Carolina Governor Richard Riley, business leader Raymond D. “Ray” Hulbert, and author and educator Katharine Du Pre Lumpkin. Limestone graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and education.

Southern Wesleyan University

Overview

Southern Wesleyan University (SWU), located in Central, South Carolina, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on faith-based education, academic excellence, and community engagement. Founded in 1906, SWU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Southern Wesleyan University was founded in 1906 by the Wesleyan Church with the mission of providing a Christian education that integrates faith and learning. The university has grown significantly over the years, expanding its academic offerings and becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to faith-based education and community service.

Academic Offerings

SWU offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Health Professions. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in education, business administration, and the health sciences.

Student Life

Student life at SWU is vibrant and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities, extensive green spaces, and a strong sense of community. SWU emphasizes spiritual growth, community service, and leadership development.

Unique Features

SWU is known for its strong emphasis on faith-based education and community engagement. The university’s Spiritual Life Program supports students in their spiritual growth and service to others. SWU also has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

SWU’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 55%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to Christian values and community service.

Alumni

SWU’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, business leader Patricia “Pat” Harris, and educator and author Dr. Ben Witherington III. SWU graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and ministry.

Charleston Southern University

Overview

Charleston Southern University (CSU), located in Charleston, South Carolina, is a private Christian liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, faith integration, and community service. Founded in 1964, CSU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Charleston Southern University was founded in 1964 by the South Carolina Baptist Convention with the mission of providing a Christian education that integrates faith and learning. The university has grown significantly over the years, expanding its academic offerings and becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service.

Academic Offerings

CSU offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various colleges, including the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education, and the College of Health Sciences. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business administration, education, and the health sciences.

Student Life

Student life at CSU is vibrant and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities, extensive green spaces, and a strong sense of community. CSU emphasizes spiritual growth, community service, and leadership development.

Unique Features

CSU is known for its strong emphasis on faith integration and community service. The university’s Faith Integration Program supports students in integrating their faith with their academic and professional pursuits. CSU also has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

CSU’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 52%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to Christian values and community service.

Alumni

CSU’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, business leader Anita Zucker, and educator and author Dr. Jerry M. Wallace. CSU graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and education.

Coker University

Overview

Coker University, located in Hartsville, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on personalized education, leadership development, and community engagement. Founded in 1908, Coker offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Coker University was founded in 1908 by businessman James Lide Coker with the mission of providing a quality liberal arts education. The university has grown significantly over the years, expanding its academic offerings and becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to personalized education and leadership development.

Academic Offerings

Coker offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of Arts and Humanities, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Social Sciences. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business administration, education, and the sciences.

Student Life

Student life at Coker is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Coker emphasizes leadership development, community service, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Coker is known for its strong emphasis on personalized education and leadership development. The university’s Center for Leadership and Social Change supports students in promoting leadership and community service. Coker also has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Coker’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 62%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership and community service.

Alumni

Coker’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former South Carolina State Senator Gerald Malloy, business leader Kim Wilkerson, and educator and author Dr. Lisa D. Roberts. Coker graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and education.

Claflin University

Overview

Claflin University, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a private historically black university (HBCU) known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, leadership development, and community service. Founded in 1869, Claflin offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Claflin University was founded in 1869 by Methodist missionaries with the mission of providing education to freedmen and their descendants. The university has a long history of academic excellence and a commitment to fostering a supportive and engaged learning community.

Academic Offerings

Claflin offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in biology, business administration, and education.

Student Life

Student life at Claflin is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Claflin emphasizes community service, leadership development, and a strong sense of community.

Unique Features

Claflin is known for its strong emphasis on leadership development and community service. The university’s Alice Carson Tisdale Honors College offers academically gifted students opportunities for advanced study and research. Claflin also has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Claflin’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 43%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership and community service.

Alumni

Claflin’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former South Carolina State Representative Jerry Govan, business leader James Clyburn, and educator and author Dr. John Hope Franklin. Claflin graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and education.