South Carolina State University (SCSU) is a public, historically black, land-grant university located in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Established in 1896, it is the only public historically black land-grant institution in the state and a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and has undergone significant developments since its inception, including achieving university status in 1992.

Academic Programs and Enrollment

SCSU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a notable distinction as the only HBCU in the nation to offer a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 2,762 students as of fall 2023, and it operates on a semester-based academic calendar. Popular majors include Family and Consumer Sciences, Biology, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Computer Science.

Campus and Facilities

The university’s campus spans 160 acres and includes significant historic buildings such as Lowman Hall and Hodge Hall, which are part of the South Carolina State College Historic District. The Miller F. Whittaker Library serves as a central resource for students and was constructed with state funding in 1967.

Rankings and Recognition

In the latest rankings by U.S. News & World Report, SCSU is positioned at #95 among Regional Universities in the South and #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The university has faced challenges regarding its accreditation but successfully regained full accreditation status in 2016 after being placed on probation in previous years due to governance and financial issues.

Student Life

SCSU fosters a vibrant campus life with over 35 student organizations, including sports teams and Greek life. The university emphasizes diversity, with approximately 96% of its student body identifying as minority students.

Upcoming Events

The university is gearing up for its Homecoming Week from October 19-27, 2024, themed “An Elite Experience,” which is expected to attract many alumni and supporters back to campus for celebrations. Overall, South Carolina State University plays a significant role in higher education within South Carolina, particularly for African American students seeking quality education in various fields.