Top 10 Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina (SC)

If you’re aspiring to become a nurse in the beautiful state of South Carolina, you’re in the right place. Choosing the right nursing school can significantly impact your education, certification success, and future career prospects. In this guide, we present the Top 10 Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina, along with detailed insights into what makes them stand out.

List of Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina – Top-Ranked

South Carolina is home to a number of prestigious nursing schools known for their academic rigor, state-of-the-art facilities, and excellent clinical training. Below is a list of the top-ranked nursing schools in the state, based on factors such as NCLEX pass rates, faculty credentials, student support services, clinical partnerships, and overall reputation.

1. University of South Carolina – Columbia

Ranking Criteria: National recognition, high NCLEX pass rates, robust research output, and comprehensive student support.

Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. in Nursing.

Overview: The College of Nursing at USC Columbia is nationally accredited and known for its commitment to excellence in nursing education and research. Students benefit from high-tech simulation labs and partnerships with top healthcare institutions in the region. The BSN program boasts a consistently high NCLEX pass rate, and the graduate programs emphasize evidence-based practice, leadership, and advanced clinical skills.

2. Clemson University – Clemson

Ranking Criteria: Innovative curriculum, clinical training excellence, and strong alumni network.

Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D.

Overview: Clemson University’s School of Nursing is a top-tier program focused on patient-centered care and interprofessional collaboration. The school integrates the latest technology into its teaching, including simulation and virtual reality labs. Clinical placements span across major South Carolina hospitals, giving students real-world experience from the start.

3. Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) – Charleston

Ranking Criteria: Research productivity, clinical affiliations, and national rankings.

Programs Offered: Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D.

Overview: MUSC’s College of Nursing is a leader in healthcare innovation and one of the oldest academic medical centers in the Southeast. Known for its cutting-edge research and advanced practice education, MUSC prepares nurses to meet the healthcare demands of the future. The accelerated BSN is particularly attractive to second-degree seekers.

4. Anderson University – Anderson

Ranking Criteria: Faith-integrated curriculum, faculty-student ratio, and NCLEX success rate.

Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, and MSN.

Overview: Anderson University’s School of Nursing offers a Christian perspective in its curriculum while maintaining academic rigor. Students receive individualized support and participate in hands-on clinical training in diverse settings. The school is known for its strong community ties and its commitment to holistic nursing care.

5. Francis Marion University – Florence

Ranking Criteria: Affordability, rural health emphasis, and NCLEX performance.

Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, and MSN.

Overview: Francis Marion University is ideal for students seeking a cost-effective yet comprehensive nursing education. The school places a strong emphasis on rural and underserved populations, providing students with the opportunity to make a tangible impact in local communities. Graduates often go on to serve as leaders in regional healthcare systems.

6. Charleston Southern University – Charleston

Ranking Criteria: Faith-based education, student satisfaction, and clinical diversity.

Programs Offered: BSN and RN to BSN.

Overview: CSU’s nursing program combines rigorous academic preparation with Christian values. With small class sizes and personalized mentorship, students gain practical skills through extensive clinical rotations. The school has strong affiliations with multiple healthcare facilities, offering varied experiences from pediatric to geriatric care.

7. Lander University – Greenwood

Ranking Criteria: Student support, job placement rate, and simulation facilities.

Programs Offered: BSN and RN to BSN.

Overview: Lander University provides a student-friendly environment with a focus on practical nursing skills and community engagement. The school’s simulation labs and hands-on clinical programs help students transition smoothly into the workforce. Lander graduates are well-prepared for immediate employment or advanced study.

8. Winthrop University – Rock Hill

Ranking Criteria: Academic flexibility, faculty experience, and NCLEX pass rate.

Programs Offered: BSN and RN to BSN.

Overview: Winthrop University offers a well-rounded nursing education grounded in liberal arts and sciences. With a strong emphasis on patient safety, ethics, and leadership, students graduate with the skills needed to succeed in various healthcare settings. The program’s NCLEX pass rates are above the national average.

9. South Carolina State University – Orangeburg

Ranking Criteria: Diversity, accessibility, and community health integration.

Programs Offered: BSN.

Overview: SCSU is a historically black university with a mission to serve diverse and underserved communities. The nursing program focuses on cultural competency, health disparities, and community-based practice. Students engage in outreach programs that prepare them to work in both rural and urban environments.

10. University of South Carolina Upstate – Spartanburg

Ranking Criteria: Clinical partnerships, licensure exam success, and regional reputation.

Programs Offered: BSN and RN to BSN.

Overview: USC Upstate’s Mary Black College of Nursing is one of the most respected programs in the Upstate region. It provides students with extensive clinical exposure and a strong foundation in nursing theory and practice. The school’s graduates are highly sought after by employers in South Carolina and beyond.

Program Offerings

Each of South Carolina’s top nursing schools offers a variety of degree paths tailored to meet the needs of diverse student populations. Here’s a breakdown of the most common nursing programs you can expect to find:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Typically, a 2-year program offered by community colleges and some universities. Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and entry-level nursing positions.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A 4-year undergraduate program that provides comprehensive nursing education, including leadership, research, and public health.
• Accelerated BSN Programs: Designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These intensive programs can be completed in as little as 12–18 months.
• RN to BSN Programs: Tailored for registered nurses who want to upgrade their associate degree to a bachelor’s degree, often available in flexible online formats.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Graduate-level programs that prepare nurses for advanced practice roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nurse Educator, or Nurse Administrator.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Terminal degrees focused on clinical practice and leadership.

Read Also: 7 Best LPN to RN Bridge Programs

Most top schools in SC offer both campus-based and online or hybrid options, giving students flexibility to pursue education while working or managing other responsibilities. Programs are often structured to include hands-on experience in real healthcare environments, reinforcing theoretical knowledge with clinical skills.

Admission Requirements

Admission into South Carolina’s top nursing programs can be competitive. However, understanding the common requirements will help you prepare effectively. Here’s what most schools typically expect:

• High School Diploma or GED: For undergraduate programs, especially BSN and ADN.
• Minimum GPA: A GPA of 2.5 to 3.5 is commonly required, depending on the competitiveness of the program.
• Prerequisite Courses: Courses in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and statistics are often required with minimum grade thresholds.
• Standardized Testing: Many programs require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment as part of the application process.
• Letters of Recommendation: Academic or professional references that speak to your qualifications.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Outlining your goals and reasons for pursuing nursing.
• Background Check & Drug Screening: Especially important before starting clinical placements.

Graduate programs may also require a BSN degree, RN license, work experience, and GRE scores. Always check individual program pages for specific requirements.

Tuition Costs & Financial Aid

Tuition is a key factor when choosing a nursing school. Costs vary widely based on whether the institution is public or private, your residency status, and the level of the program.

• Public Universities (In-State Tuition): Typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
• Out-of-State Tuition: Can increase to $20,000 or more annually.
• Private Institutions: Expect to pay $20,000 to $35,000+ per year, depending on the program.

However, numerous financial aid options are available:

• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
• State Scholarships: Such as the LIFE Scholarship, HOPE Scholarship, and Palmetto Fellows in South Carolina.
• School-Specific Scholarships: Offered based on merit, need, or special categories.
• Nursing-Specific Financial Aid: Includes the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program and other national nursing awards.

Some hospitals in South Carolina even offer tuition reimbursement for employees enrolled in nursing programs. Consider schools that have strong financial aid departments that guide you through applying for aid and maximizing your eligibility.

NCLEX Pass Rates

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) is a critical step in becoming a registered nurse. High pass rates often reflect a school’s curriculum quality and student support systems.

Here’s how the top schools in SC perform:

• Medical University of South Carolina: Consistently above 95%
• University of South Carolina, Columbia: Ranges from 92% to 96%
• Clemson University: Around 94% average over the past five years
• Anderson University & Charleston Southern University: Both report pass rates of 90% and above

NCLEX pass rates are publicly reported by the South Carolina Board of Nursing. High pass rates often correlate with:

• Rigorous academic preparation
• Strong clinical partnerships
• NCLEX review courses and practice tests
• Support services like tutoring and mentoring

Be sure to research each school’s recent NCLEX statistics as part of your decision-making process.

Accreditation Status

Accreditation is a must-check box when evaluating nursing programs. Accredited schools adhere to national education standards and ensure your degree is recognized for licensure and further study.

Two Key Accrediting Bodies:

• CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education): Accredits BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
• ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing): Accredits all levels, including LPN, ADN, BSN, and graduate nursing programs.

All top nursing schools in South Carolina are accredited by at least one of these bodies. Additionally, they are approved by the South Carolina Board of Nursing, ensuring they meet state-specific educational requirements.

Benefits of attending an accredited school include:

• Eligibility for federal financial aid
• Smooth licensure and certification
• Recognition by employers
• Qualification for graduate studies

Always verify the accreditation status on the program’s website or through the accrediting body’s database.

Clinical Training Opportunities

Clinical experience is the cornerstone of any nursing education. South Carolina’s top nursing schools maintain partnerships with leading hospitals, clinics, and health systems to provide students with real-world training.

Examples include:

• Medical University of South Carolina: Access to MUSC Health facilities for all specialties
• University of South Carolina: Partners with Prisma Health, Lexington Medical Center, and VA hospitals
• Clemson University: Collaborates with Greenville Health System and AnMed Health

Students rotate through different units, including:

• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatrics
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Mental Health
• Critical Care and Emergency Nursing

Many programs offer simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins to replicate real-life scenarios before students begin clinical rotations. These experiences not only build technical skills but also enhance decision-making, patient communication, and confidence.

Campus or Online Availability

With growing demand for flexible education, many nursing schools in South Carolina have adopted online or hybrid formats to accommodate different learners.

On-Campus Learning:

• Ideal for traditional students
• Includes face-to-face instruction, labs, and clinicals

Online & Hybrid Learning:

• Often available for RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP programs
• Combines asynchronous online coursework with in-person labs and clinical placements

Top schools like UofSC and MUSC offer robust online options for advanced degrees. Even in online formats, clinical hours must be completed in approved healthcare settings.

Read Also: 7 Affordable Nursing Schools in Paris for EU Students

For working professionals, online nursing programs offer flexibility without compromising quality. Ensure your online program is accredited and provides strong academic support.

Student Outcomes

When evaluating nursing schools, look beyond academics to assess student success. Top institutions in SC report:

• High Graduation Rates: Over 75% of BSN students complete their programs on time.
• Job Placement Rates: Most graduates secure employment within six months of graduation.
• Career Advancement: Many go on to become nurse leaders, educators, and advanced practice nurses.

Alumni testimonials and employer feedback often reflect positively on the quality of graduates. Programs that offer career counseling, resume support, and job fairs enhance these outcomes significantly.

Location and Campus Life

Finally, consider the school’s location and student experience. Whether you prefer an urban campus like MUSC in Charleston or a scenic college town like Clemson, South Carolina offers diverse environments.

Factors to evaluate:

• Proximity to healthcare facilities
• Availability of campus housing
• Student organizations and leadership opportunities
• Safety and cost of living

Schools like Anderson University and Charleston Southern University offer faith-based environments, while UofSC and Clemson provide large-campus experiences with vibrant student life.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right nursing school in South Carolina involves evaluating academic quality, affordability, clinical exposure, and career support. Whether you’re starting fresh or advancing your career, the schools on this list represent the best nursing education opportunities in South Carolina.

Carefully consider your goals, compare options, and take the next step toward becoming a successful nurse in the Palmetto State.

Ready to choose your future in nursing? Start by contacting the admissions office of your preferred schools today and explore campus tours, application deadlines, and financial aid options.