University of South Carolina

University of South Carolina Overview

The University of South Carolina (USC) is a prominent public research university located in Columbia, South Carolina. It stands as the flagship institution within the University of South Carolina System and boasts the highest enrollment of any university in the state. USC's main campus, which spans over 359 acres in downtown Columbia, is in close proximity to the South Carolina State House.

This esteemed institution is known for its strong commitment to research and is classified as an "R1: Doctoral University with Highest Research Activity." Notably, USC houses the largest collection of Robert Burns and Scottish literature materials outside Scotland, along with the world's largest collection of works by Ernest Hemingway.

Originally established in 1801 as South Carolina College, the university has since expanded significantly. It offers a diverse range of educational programs, encompassing more than 350 areas of study that lead to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools.

As of fall 2019, USC boasted a total enrollment of around 52,000 students, with over 35,000 students studying at the Columbia research campus. Additionally, USC has partnerships with nearby technical colleges, ensuring a continuous influx of students. The Columbia campus hosts professional schools in fields such as business, engineering, law, medicine, pharmacy, and social work.

USC's history is deeply rooted in the early 19th century, with its founding as South Carolina College. The campus was initially modest, with only one building, Rutledge College, serving various purposes, including administrative offices, academic spaces, housing, and a chapel. Over time, the campus expanded to include a total of eleven buildings arranged in a U-shaped configuration known as the Horseshoe.

During the antebellum period, USC gained recognition for its graduates' active role in advocating for secession from the Union. Many notable scholars joined the university during this time, contributing to its prominence.

The construction and maintenance of USC's early buildings, including those on the Horseshoe, heavily relied on slave labor and slave-made materials. This history is an important part of the university's heritage.

Throughout the 20th century, the USC campus underwent significant expansion, with the addition of various academic buildings, residence halls, athletic facilities, and cultural centers. These developments transformed USC into a modern and comprehensive institution.

Recent additions to the campus include the Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center, the Greek Village, the Green Quad, the Honors College Residence Hall, the Public Health Research Center, the Graduate Columbia hotel, the Colonial Life Arena, and Carolina Stadium. Additionally, the School of Law and the Darla Moore School of Business received new state-of-the-art facilities.

USC continues to evolve and maintain its status as a prominent center for education, research, and cultural activities in the southeastern United States.