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OVERVIEW
The University of South Carolina (USC) began in 1805 with a single building in Columbia, South
Carolina. Over 100 years later, in 1906, the school was permanently chartered as the University of
South Carolina. In addition to USC Columbia, the flagship campus, there are now seven regional
campuses in the USC System. This includes three senior campuses offering 4-year, bachelor’s
degrees (USC Aiken, USC Beaufort, and USC Upstate) and four regional campuses offering 2-year,
associate’s degrees (USC Lancaster, USC Sumter, USC Salkehatchie, and USC Union). The USC
system also has several field research facilities throughout South Carolina (notably Baruch Marine
Laboratory).
The mission statement of the University is to educate the state’s diverse citizens through teaching,
research and creative activity, and service. This mission statement is supported by the 350 degree
programs leading to associates, bachelors, or doctoral degrees. The university awards over 8,000
degrees annually. In addition, there is a strong emphasis on research.
The University of South Carolina system had over $238 million in research funds in 2012. In
addition, it has numerous awards and accolades. The University has the nation’s only National
Science Foundation Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Fuel Cells. Further, a new
$250 million “intellectual ecosystem,” known as Innovista, is underway on the Columbia campus.
University-wide, there are over 41,000 students enrolled and more than 2,000 faculty members.
Table 3.1 lists the Fall 2012 enrollment for each USC campus.
Table 3.1: Student Enrollment Summary (Fall 2012)
CAMPUS
Aiken
Beaufort
Columbia
Lancaster
Salkehatchie
Sumter
Union
Upstate
Total
ENROLLMENT
2,750
1,547
28,814
1,266
800
697
345
4,901
41,119
Source: www.sc.edu
All of the regional campuses are participating in the USC Disaster Resistance University (DRU)
process and are profiled below. The campus locations are shown in Figure 3.1.
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Figure 3.1: USC Disaster Resistant University Campus Sites
USC Columbia
The Columbia Campus is the University of South Carolina’s flagship campus, and was initiated in
1805. Located in Columbia, South Carolina, it has 14 degree-granting colleges that award degrees
at the associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral level. USC Columbia awards nearly 6,000
degrees annually, nearly 75 percent of the USC system total. There are more than 27,000
students and more than 1,600 faculty members at the Columbia campus. USC Columbia has
several notable rankings.
In 2009, USC ranked 52nd in the nation among public universities (U.S. News and World Report).
Additional rankings from U.S. News and World Report are as follows:



Undergraduate program in international Business: ranked number one in the country for the
12th year in a row
Graduate program in International Business: ranked number one among public universities
Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism management: top ten in the nation
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Law School: top 100 in the nation
Further, U.S. News and World Report (2009) ranked the University of South Carolina ninth in the
nation as “most promising and innovation schools” in the nation.
USC Columbia is home to NCAA Division I
athletics and home to the Gamecocks.
Figure 3.2: USC Columbia
Geography and Natural Features
The USC Columbia campus is located in the
City of Columbia (Richland County), which is
the heart of South Carolina and the largest
city in the state. The campus is approximately
335 acres (0.5 square miles). A tributary from
the Congaree River (Rocky Branch) runs
through campus, which is a small area of 100year floodplain. It is prime location, being 65
miles from Augusta, Georgia and 85 miles
from Charlotte, North Carolina. Figure 3.2
shows the campus in relation to the state and
surrounding area.
Columbia, South Carolina has a total area of
127.7 square miles of which 125.2 square
miles are water. Further, it rests 314 feet
above sea level. Water features include the
Saluda River and Broad River which converge
into the Congaree River. USC Columbia
Campus is less than one mile from the
Congaree River, creating flood risks for the
campus.
The fall line running through the area is a
unique natural feature in Columbia. A fall line is a geomorphologic unconformity and change in
elevation between an upland region and a coastal plain region. The older, harder rocks of an
upland region are more resistant to erosion than easily eroded strata of the coastal plains. When
water crosses over this fall line, moving from the higher elevation and rockier terrain of the upland
region to the lower, flatter lands of the plains, water rapids form. Columbia’s fall line is on the
Congaree River.
Climate
According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the University of South Carolina
Columbia has hot, humid summers and colder winters. 1 The average annual high temperature is 78
degrees Fahrenheit and the average annual low temperature is 54 degrees Fahrenheit. The
summer months of June to August have average high temperatures between 90 and 92 degrees
Fahrenheit with high humidity. The heat index in the summer months is often well into the triple
digits due to the humidity. The highest temperature recorded was 109 degrees Fahrenheit in 1999
on the USC Campus. The winter months, December through February, have average high
1
This information is based on data collected 1/1/1930 to 2/28/2005 by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
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temperatures between 57 and 61 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity is typically lower. The
annual average of precipitation at USC Columbia is 45.05 inches. Rainfall amounts are generally
consistent throughout the year, but July is the wettest month, averaging 5.57 inches.
Population
Total enrollment for the USC Columbia in Fall 2011 was 30,721 students. This is includes full-time
and part-time undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. There were 22,556
undergraduates of which 20,700 were full-time students and 1,515 were part-time students. There
were 6,693 graduate students and 1,472 professional students. Table 3.2 lists the student makeup by gender, education level, and full-time or part-time status.
Table 3.2: Columbia Campus Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
Undergraduate
Graduate
Professional
TOTAL
Fulltime
9,446
1,475
712
11,633
Female
Parttime
979
1,112
16
2,107
Fulltime
11,254
2,215
734
14,203
Parttime
877
1,891
10
2,778
Combined
Fulltime
20,700
3,690
1,446
25,836
Parttime
1,856
3,003
26
4,885
Total
22,556
6,693
1,472
30,721
In addition, there are over 1,600 faculty members.
The 2006 U.S. Census estimated that the population of Columbia, South Carolina was 119,961, a
3.4 percent increase from the 2006 population of 119,691. The 2000 racial make-up of the city was
as follows: 49.2 percent white persons, 46.0 percent African American persons, 1.7 percent Asian
persons, and 0.3 percent American Indian persons. Three percent of the population was of Hispanic
or Latin origin. Of the population over 25 years of age, 35.7 percent have a bachelor’s degree or
higher. The median household income was $31,141 in 1999.
Curriculum Overview
There are 14 degree-granting colleges and more than 350 degree programs at USC Columbia.
Undergraduate schools include nursing, pharmacy, social work, public health, business, education,
and engineering among others. At the graduate level, the Columbia campus offers areas of study in
engineering, business, education, nursing, public health, and social work among others.
Professional degrees are also available in medicine, pharmacy, and law.
Baruch Marine Laboratory
The Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences was established in 1969 through the
Belle W. Baruch Foundation and the University of South Carolina. It is located in Georgetown,
South Carolina on the historic Hobcaw Barony property. The Belle W. Baruch Foundation owns the
17,500-acre wildlife refuge. This Foundation was created for the “purposes of teaching and/or
research in forestry, marine biology, and the care and propagation of wildlife, flora, and fauna in
connection with colleges and/or universities in the state of South Carolina.” Both Clemson and the
University of South Carolina have shared research, housing, and learning facilities on the property.
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There are several structures on the property
including a research laboratory, conference
room area, several field research buildings,
and lodging.
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Figure 3.3: Baruch Marine Laboratory
Geography and Natural Features
As noted above, the Baruch Marine Laboratory
is located in Georgetown County, South
Carolina on the Hobcaw Barony property
(Figure 3.3). The facility can be accessed
from U.S. Highway 17, approximately one mile
east of the City of Georgetown’s historic
harbor town.
The 17,500-acre (27 square miles) Hobcaw
Barony research site is covered by swamps,
wetlands, salt marshes, and pine and
hardwood forests. There are tidal, estuarine,
coastal, and barrier island environments on the
Hobcaw Barony property, making it conducive
to research. Further, there is a unique ecology
in the area given the convergence of 3 rivers.
The Sampit River, Great Pee River, and
Wacaamaw Rivers converge into the Winyah
Bay and then empty into the Atlantic Ocean. In
fact, Hobcaw means “between the waters”
according to Native American language.
The City of Georgetown lies 18 feet above sea
level and covers 6.5 square miles (0.6 square miles are water). The City is 35 miles south of Myrtle
Beach, 65 miles north of Charleston, 108 miles east of Columbia, South Carolina.
Much of this campus is only 7 feet above Sea Level. However one of the most vulnerable assets,
the Marine Laboratory and elevated to 12 feet above the group and is at high-risk to a hurricane
event.
Climate
The City of Georgetown has a mild climate, with an average annual high temperature of 76 degrees
Fahrenheit and an average annual low temperature of 54 degrees Fahrenheit.1 The summer
months of June to August have average high temperatures between 88 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit
with high humidity; afternoon thunderstorms are a frequent occurrence. The heat index in the
summer months is often in the triple digits due to the humidity. The winter months, December
through February, have average high temperatures between 59 and 62 degrees Fahrenheit, and
the humidity is typically lower. The city receives an average of 52 inches of precipitation each year.
The month of August receives the greatest amount at an average of 6.72 inches of rainfall.
Population
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Baruch has a small group of full-time staff and researchers. However, a majority of the people are
researchers who reside there on occasion, but not on a permanent basis. Students and faculty
utilize the site for research and learning.
Non-USC Students and faculty utilize the site for research and learning but degrees are conferred
through their respective colleges.
Georgetown is South Carolina’s third oldest city. According to the U.S. Census, it had a population
of 8,950 in 2000. The racial make-up of the 2000 population is as follows: 57 percent black or
African American persons, 41 percent white persons, 0.3 percent Asian persons, and 0.1 percent
Native American persons. Nearly 2.0 percent of population was of Hispanic or Latino origin. The
median household income was $29,424 in 1999.
Curriculum Overview
There are several structures conducive to teaching and research on the property. The Discovery
Center is a newly-constructed learning facility that serves to educate primary and high school-level
students in the area. The main research building (Baruch Marine Laboratory) is 19,827 square feet.
It includes 18 research labs, a computer center, seminar room, conference room, dining room,
archived-sample room, classroom, library, teaching lab, walk-in refrigerators and freezers, and
several other state-of-the-art facilities.
Two nearby buildings are 3,000 square feet wet labs. One is screened in and the other is enclosed
with air conditioning. These field oriented research buildings are equipped with running seawater.
In addition to the research buildings, there are several structures available for short- or long-term
overnight accommodations. There are three cottages and three dorms. Each cottage has a seven
person capacity. Two of the dorms have a sixteen person capacity while the third can
accommodate up to twenty people.
In addition, the Kimbel Lodge can accommodate up to 100 people for conferences and includes two
computer labs.
USC Aiken
USC Aiken (USCA) is a senior campus offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The university is
located in Aiken, South Carolina (Aiken County) and was founded in 1961 as the fourth campus in
the USC system. Initially located in an historic mansion, the enrollment quickly grew, and the
campus relocated in 1972. By 1977, USCA was a fully accredited senior college, allowing students
to begin and complete their bachelor’s degrees on the Aiken campus. In 1994, master’s degree
programs were offered at the university. Today, there are over 3,000 students and over 30 degree
programs.
The university abides to four values:
1. A High Quality Learning Environment – USCA aims to maximize student potential through
critical thinking and independent learning. Further, the university expects high quality
teaching and creative endeavors by faculty.
2. Collegiality – USCA aspires to be a nurturing community where people support each other.
Further, cooperation and collaboration are encouraged.
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3. Character - USCA expects integrity, honestly, and responsibility for actions. Diversity is
embraced and pride in accomplishments is encouraged.
4. Citizenship – USCA strives towards the development of responsible citizens with an
understanding of the rights and responsibilities associated with membership in a
community.
USCA has been ranked as a top three public Baccalaureate College in the South for the last twelve
consecutive years (U.S. News and World Report).This includes six number one rankings.
USCA enjoys NCAA Division II athletics as the
Aiken Pacers (a tribute to the town’s strong
equestrian ties) and has a three-time national
champion men’s golf team.
Figure 3.4: USC Aiken
Geography and Natural Features
USC Aiken is located a short distance from the
I-20 exit in Aiken, South Carolina (Figure 3.4).
The campus occupies 453 acres including
developed areas and forested areas. It is
located 20 miles from Augusta, Georgia and 55
miles from Columbia, South Carolina.
The campus does not have any major water
features on campus. Bridge Creek runs to the
north of campus. It does not create any flood
problems. The Southern Railway and Sand
River run to the south of campus. Tributaries
from the river may pose a slight flood risk.
State Route 118 runs through the center of
campus. The campus lies just a few miles west
of downtown Aiken.
The City of Aiken is 17.93 square miles (11,475
acres) and 530 feet above sea level. There are
no major bodies of water nearby.
Climate
According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Aiken has weather similar to
nearby Columbia, South Carolina. 1 The average annual high temperature is 76 degrees Fahrenheit
and the average annual low temperature is 52 degrees Fahrenheit. The summer months of June to
August have average high temperatures between 90 and 92 degrees Fahrenheit with high
humidity. The heat index in the summer months often approaches triple digits due to the high
humidity. The highest temperature recorded was 109 degrees Fahrenheit in 1983. The winter
months, December through February, have average high temperatures between 60 and 62 degrees
Fahrenheit, and the humidity is typically lower. The annual average of precipitation in Aiken is
48.95 inches. Rainfall amounts are generally consistent throughout the year, but March is the
wettest month, averaging 5.05 inches.
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Population
Total enrollment at USC Aiken in Fall 2011 was 3,277 students. This included full-time and parttime undergraduate and graduate students. There were 3,194 undergraduates of which 2,487 were
full-time students and 707 were part-time students. There were 83 graduate students, most of
which were part-time. Nine percent of the enrolled students are from out-of-state, and 32 percent
are minority students. Table 3.3 lists the student make-up by gender, education level, and fulltime or part-time status.
Table 3.3: USC Aiken Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
Undergraduate
Graduate
TOTAL
Female
Combined
Fulltime
857
8
Parttime
245
9
Fulltime
1,630
19
Parttime
462
47
Fulltime
2,487
27
Parttime
707
56
865
254
1,649
509
2,514
763
Total
3,194
83
3,277
Source: www.sc.edu
The 2006 U.S. Census estimated that population of the City of Aiken was 28,829 persons, an 11.1
percent increase from the 2000 population of 25,337. The 2000 racial make-up of the city was as
follows: 66.6 percent white persons, 30.3 percent African American persons, 1.3 percent Asian
persons, and 0.3 percent American Indian persons. One and half percent of the population was of
Hispanic or Latin origin. Of the population over 25 years of age, 38.1 percent had a bachelor’s
degree or higher. The median household income was $44,172 in 1999.
Curriculum Overview
USC Aiken has more than 30 different majors and academic programs toward bachelor’s and
master’s degrees. There are no professional schools at USC Aiken, but graduate level courses and
degrees are offered. Schools at USCA include Humanities and Social Sciences, Business
Administration, Education, Sciences, and Nursing. Master’s Degrees are available in Clinical
Psychology, Education, and Education Technology.
USC Beaufort
USC Beaufort began as Beaufort College in 1795. However, the College closed in 1861 due to the
Civil War when it was used as hospital for Union forces. In 1959, the site returned to university use
as a regional branch campus for the University of South Carolina, awarding associate’s degrees. In
2002, USC Beaufort became a senior campus and was able to award bachelor’s degrees. In 2004, a
second, 200-acre campus was opened in Bluffton (also known as South Campus or the Hilton Head
Gateway Campus).
Under the university’s mission, USC Beaufort “encourages students to think analytically and
abstractly, to explore options, to see similarities, to be open to differences, to communicate
effectively, and to respect each individual.” Further, the university enriches the quality of life for
area residents through performing arts, symposia, and community partnerships.
USC Beaufort is part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and is home to the Sand
Sharks. Further, USC Beaufort is the newest senior campus in the USC system and also the fastest
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growing. There has been a 52 percent increase in enrollment over the last 5 years, with a student
body of nearly 1,700.
Geography and Natural Features
Although there are two USC Beaufort campuses (Historic Beaufort Campus and Hilton Head
Gateway Campus), both are generally located in the South Carolina coastal lowcountry. (The
campuses are about 25 miles apart.) The low country includes the Carolina Sea Islands, a string of
barrier islands and is a geographic and cultural area. It is generally at or below sea level and has
extensive tidal marsh systems and wetland preserves (hence the name). Culturally, this area is
rich in history from early settlers including the Gullah (Creole-type culture) to eastern Europeans.
Today, this area is world renowned for its abundant luxury resorts and recreation opportunities.
The area is internationally recognized for golf, tennis, and kayaking.
Figure 3.5 below shows the location of both campuses.
Figure 3.5: USC Beaufort Campuses
Historic Beaufort Campus – Beaufort, South Carolina
The Historic Beaufort Campus (North Campus) is located in historic Beaufort, South Carolina along
the intercoastal waterway and Beaufort River. The campus is about 15 miles from the Atlantic
Ocean. It is approximately 25 minutes east from the I-95 exit. The ten acre campus has
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approximately twelve buildings including a performing arts center, art studio, and science building.
This campus includes a research facility on Pritchard’s Island, one of the Carolina Sea Islands. It is
slightly higher above sea level than the Hilton Head Gateway Campus (South Campus). The
campus is approximately 3 feet above sea level. North Campus is approximately 130 miles from
Columbia, South Carolina and approximately 40 miles from Savannah, Georgia.
Hilton Head Gateway Campus – Bluffton, South Carolina
The Hilton Head Gateway Campus (South Campus), is located Bluffton, South Carolina. It is a short
drive from the I-95 exit and just north of Bluffton, South Carolina. The campus is about 17 miles
from the Atlantic Ocean with Hilton Head Island between them. This campus is further inland than
the North Campus but is lower, resting about 18 to 30 feet above sea level depending on the
location on campus. Further, this is a much larger campus occupying around 130 acres. There are
approximately nine buildings on this campus including Palmetto Village (a four-building student
housing area), a Campus Center, and a Library.
South Campus is approximately 140 miles from Columbia, South Carolina and approximately 25
miles from Savannah, Georgia.
Climate
According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the average annual high
temperature is 76 degrees Fahrenheit and the average annual low temperature is 56 degrees
Fahrenheit. 1 The summer months of June to August have average high temperatures between 88
and 90 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity. The heat index in the summer months is often well
into the triple digits due to the high humidity. The highest temperature recorded was 106 degrees
Fahrenheit in 1986. The winter months, December through February, have average high
temperatures between 61 and 63 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity is typically lower. The
highest reported temperature in the County was 108 degrees Fahrenheit and occurred in 1989 in
Yemassee. The annual average of precipitation in Beaufort is 48.50 inches. August is the wettest
month, averaging 6.83 inches.
Population
Total enrollment for the USC Beaufort in Fall 2011 was 1,874 students. This is includes full-time
and part-time undergraduate students. Of these undergraduate students, nearly 75 percent were
full-time students. Table 3.4 lists the student make-up by gender, education level, and full-time or
part-time status. It should be noted that the population was not broken down by campus since
many student travel between both and are considered students at USC Beaufort.
Table 3.4: USC Beaufort Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
Undergraduate
(total enrollment)
Female
Combined
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
539
171
879
285
1,418
456
Total
1,874
According to the 2000 U.S. Census, the population of the City of Beaufort was 12,950 persons. The
2000 racial make-up of the city was as follows: 69.4 percent white persons, 25.1 percent African
American persons, 1.1 percent Asian persons, and 0.3 percent American Indian persons. Over 4
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percent of the population was of Hispanic or Latin origin. Of the population over 25 years of age,
28.6 percent have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income in 1999 was
$36,532.
Curriculum Overview
Four-year baccalaureate degrees can be earned at USC Beaufort in thirteen areas of study
including biology, business, education, human services, and nursing among others. The Hospitality
Management degree program attracts students from around the world due to the area’s worldrenowned resorts and recreation opportunities. In addition, associate degrees in arts and sciences
are available to military personnel stationed nearby. Master’s degrees are available in 20 areas,
but are awarded by other senior campuses in the USC system.
USC Lancaster
USC Lancaster (USCL) is a regional campus offering associate’s degrees and limited upper-division
course work. Founded in 1959, the university primarily supports students from rural areas in the
Piedmont Region of South Carolina. As part of USC Lancaster’s Mission Statement, the university
“seeks to make education accessible, affordable, and convenient to the residents of this region.”
Enrollment at USC Lancaster increased 26 percent between 2007 and 2008. The campus continues
to grow and has opened two buildings and
renovated the Medford Library since 2000.
Figure 3.6: USC Lancaster
USCL is part of the National Junior College
Athletic Association and home to the Lancers.
Geography and Natural Features
The USCL campus is bounded by Highway 9 to
the south and Highway 521 to the east.
Hubbard Drive bounds the northeast portion of
campus but also runs south through the
campus. The 13-acre campus and surrounding
area are shown in Figure 3.6. The campus is
approximately 40 minutes south of Charlotte,
North Carolina and 60 miles north of Columbia,
South Carolina.
USCL is located in the Piedmont Region of
South Carolina in the middle of six counties:
Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Lancaster,
Kershaw, and York. The Piedmont, literally
meaning foot of the mountain, comprises a
third of South Carolina.2 This region is
generally hilly and has the highest elevation in
the state. In fact, the Piedmont Region is
bounded to the west by the Blue Ridge
Mountains.
Climate
2
www.sciway3.net
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Lancaster almanac information indicated that the average annual high temperature is 73 degrees
Fahrenheit and the average annual low temperature is 48 degrees Fahrenheit. 3 The summer
months of June to August have average high temperatures between 87 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit
with high humidity. The highest temperature recorded was 107 degrees Fahrenheit in 1926. The
winter months, December through February, have average high temperatures between 56 and 58
degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity is typically lower. The annual average of precipitation in
Lancaster is 46.50 inches. July is the wettest month, averaging 5.05 inches of rainfall.
Population
Total enrollment for the USC Lancaster in Fall 2011 was 1,744 students. This includes full-time and
part-time undergraduate students. The student enrollment is about half full-time and half parttime. Table 3.5 lists the student body by gender and full-time or part-time status.
Table 3.5: Columbia Campus Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
Undergraduate
(total enrollment)
Female
Combined
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
353
322
501
568
854
890
Total
1,744
Source: www.sc.edu
According to the 2000 U.S. Census, the population of the City of Lancaster was 8,177 persons. The
2000 racial make-up of the city was as follows: 49.5 percent African American persons, 47.5
percent white persons, 0.9 percent Asian persons, and 0.1 percent American Indian persons. Over
2 percent of the population was of Hispanic or Latin origin. Of the population over 25 years of age,
19.2 percent had a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income in 1999 was
$28,650.
Curriculum Overview
USC Lancaster offers associates degrees in five areas: Arts, Science, Business, Criminal Justice,
and Nursing. In addition, a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in
Organizational Leadership are available through the University of South Carolina’s Palmetto
Program.
USC Salkehatchie
USC Salkehatchie (USCS) was established in 1965 in Allendale, South Carolina as a regional
campus of the University of South Carolina. The campus is supported by five counties: Allendale,
Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, and Hampton. It was named after the Salkehatchie River which runs
through all five counties. Although the initial class had just 76 students, the campus grew
throughout the years and established a second campus in 1981. The second campus is USC
Salkehatchie at Walterboro (Colleton County).
Today, there are nearly 1,000 students, and the campus continues to serve the rural low country of
South Carolina. Both campus locations offer associate’s degrees.
3
Weather.com
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The USC Salkehatchie Mission states that the university “is committed to the education of the
State's diverse citizens through its endeavors of teaching, research and creative activity, and
service.” Further, its vision is to “be recognized as a model rural ‘Community University’ that plays
a major role in enriching the cultural, educational, and economic opportunities of the citizens
served.”
USC Salkehatchie is a member of the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association and is home to
the Indians.
Geography and Natural Features
USC Salkehatchie has two campuses, Allendale, the East Campus, and Walterboro, the East
campus. The Allendale and Walterboro campuses are approximately 40 miles apart. Their locations
are shown in Figure 3.7. The area is generally referred to as the rural low county of South
Carolina. The terrain is relatively flat in this area.
Allendale Campus
The Allendale campus is located off Burton’s Ferry Highway (Highway 321) in a rural setting. The
campus sits on the outskirts of the Town of Allendale, located in Allendale County, which is a total
of 3.3 square miles. This campus consists of approximately 220 acres with 14 buildings and an
athletic complex for the softball, baseball, and soccer teams. Columbia, South Carolina is
approximately 75 miles north and Charleston, South Carolina is approximately 90 miles east of the
campus.
Walterboro Campus
The Walterboro campus is located approximately 40 miles east of the Allendale campus in the City
of Walterboro. This is still a predominately rural areas but the campus is more of an urban setting,
occupying four buildings and a gymnasium, home to the Salkehatchie Indians basketball team. It is
located off Highway 64 and a few miles from I-95. It is approximately 90 miles to Columbia, South
Carolina and 50 miles from Charleston, South Carolina. The City of Walterboro, located in Colleton
County, has a total of 5.0 square miles.
Figure 3.7: USC Salkehatchie Campuses
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Climate
Although the campuses are just 40 miles apart, a separate climate analysis was done on each. As
would be expected, the two campuses have a comparable climate.
Allendale Campus
According to historical weather information for the Town of Allendale, South Carolina the average
annual high temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit and the average annual low temperature is 50
degrees Fahrenheit. 4 The summer months of June to August have average high temperatures
between 90 and 93 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the South Carolina State Climatology Office,
the highest temperature recorded was 106 degrees Fahrenheit in 1983. The winter months,
December through February, have average high temperatures between 58 and 63 degrees
Fahrenheit, and the humidity is typically lower. The annual average of precipitation in Allendale is
46.57 inches. The summer months average greater rainfall with June as the wettest month,
averaging 5.57 inches of rainfall.
Walterboro Campus
According to almanac information from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources for
Walterboro, the average annual high temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit and the average annual
4
Weather information from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources was not available for Allendale. Therefore,
weather.com information was used unless otherwise stated.
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low temperature is 52 degrees Fahrenheit. 1 The summer months of June to August have average
high temperatures between 89 and 92 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity. The highest
temperature recorded was 107 degrees Fahrenheit in 1984. The winter months, December through
February, have average high temperatures between 60 and 63 degrees Fahrenheit, and the
humidity is typically lower. The annual average of precipitation in Walterboro is 48.74 inches. July
is the wettest month, averaging 6.29 inches of rainfall.
Population
Total enrollment for the USC Salkehatchie in Fall 2011 was 1,155 students. This is includes fulltime and part-time undergraduate students. The student enrollment is about half full-time and half
part-time. Table 3.6 lists the student enrollment by gender and full-time or part-time status. It
should be noted that students are enrolled in UCS Salkehatchie and attend courses at both
campuses.
Table 3.6: USC Salkehatchie Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
Undergraduate
(total enrollment)
Female
Combined
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
258
144
346
407
604
551
Total
1,155
Source: www.sc.edu
As noted earlier, the USC Salkehatchie campus is supported by five counties has two campus sites:
Allendale and Walterboro, South Carolina. The U.S. Census data from these cities are presented
below.
Allendale Campus
According to 2000 U.S. Census data, the population of the Town of Allendale was 4,052 persons.
The 2000 racial make-up of the Town was as follows: 80.0 percent African American persons, 18.2
percent white persons, 0.2 percent Asian persons, and 0.2 Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific
Islander. Over 2.0 percent of the population was of Hispanic or Latin origin. Of the population over
25 years of age, 10.7 percent had a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income in
1999 was $16,632.
Walterboro Campus
According to 2000 U.S. Census data, the population of the City of Allendale was 5,153 persons. The
2000 racial make-up of the city was as follows: 50.1 percent white persons, 48.3 percent African
American persons, 0.3 percent Asian persons, and 0.2 percent American Indian persons. Over 1.0
percent of the population was of Hispanic or Latin origin. Of the population over 25 years of age,
19.6 percent had a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income in 1999 was
$32,200.
Curriculum Overview
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USC Salkehatchie students can obtain associates, bachelors, and graduate degrees. However, only
associate degrees are formally awarded by the USC Salkehatchie campus. Other USC institutions
award the bachelor and graduate degrees.
USC Salkehatchie offers an Associate’s Degree in Science and an Associate’s Degree in Art.
USC Aiken offers a Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education at USC Salkehatchie. Bachelor’s
Degrees in Nursing, Liberal Studies, and Organizational Leadership are awarded through USC
Columbia.
USC Sumter
The USC Sumter began as a Clemson University branch campus in 1966. However, due to slower
than expected enrollment, negotiations were made to turn the campus into a USC regional campus.
In 1973, USC Sumter was established, and enrollment has increased throughout the years.
The mission of UCS Sumter is “to provide higher education and intellectual leadership for the
Sumter area.” This mission is supported by granting associate’s degrees in arts and science as well
as offering bachelor and graduate degrees through other USC senior campuses. In addition, the
university “emphasizes the development of the whole person” by promoting good citizenry
disciplines.
Enrollment at USC Sumter has increased 19 percent since 1990, and the campus now has over
1,200 students. Further, USC Sumter is a member of the National Junior Collegiate Athletic
Association and home to the Fire Ants.
Geography and Natural Features
Figure 3.8: USC Sumter
USC Sumter is located in the City of Sumter
(Sumter County), which is the eighth largest
metropolitan area in the state. Figure 3.8
shows the 60-acre campus and the
surrounding City of Sumter.
There are a few bodies of water to the east of
campus including the Powderhorn Canal and
Soft Pouch Branch Creek but they do not
pose a flood risk to the campus. In fact,
there are not major water bodies on campus
but hurricanes and impervious surface often
contribute to campus flooding. The campus is
approximately 150 feet above sea level.
Climate
According to the South Carolina Department
of Natural Resources, the average annual
high temperature in Sumter is 75 degrees
Fahrenheit and the average annual low
temperature is 51 degrees Fahrenheit. 1 The
summer months of June to August have
average high temperatures between 89 and
92 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity.
The heat index in the summer months is
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often well into the triple digits due the high humidity. The highest temperature recorded was 109
degrees Fahrenheit which occurred in Wedgefield in 1983. The winter months, December through
February, have average high temperatures between 57 and 61 degrees Fahrenheit, and the
humidity is typically lower. The annual average of precipitation in Sumter is 47.17 inches. Rainfall
amounts are generally consistent throughout the year, but June is the wettest month, averaging
5.41 inches.
Population
Total enrollment for the USC Sumter in Fall 2011 was 1,018 students. This is includes full-time and
part-time undergraduate students. The student enrollment is about half full-time and half parttime. The average student age at USC Sumter is 23 years. Table 3.7 lists the student make-up by
gender and full-time or part-time status.
Table 3.7: USC Sumter Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
Undergraduate
(total enrollment)
Female
Combined
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
Fulltime
Parttime
252
196
297
273
549
469
Total
1,018
Source: www.sc.edu
There are 41 full-time faculty members at USC Sumter.
According to 2000 U.S. Census data, the population of the City of Sumter was 39,643 persons. The
2000 racial make-up of the city was as follows: 49.6 percent white persons, 46.3 percent African
American persons, 1.3 percent Asian persons, and 0.2 American Indian. Over 2 percent of the
population was of Hispanic or Latin origin. Of the population over 25 years of age, 22.6 percent had
a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income in 1999 was $31,590.
Curriculum Overview
USC Sumter has two associate’s degree programs, six bachelor’s degree programs, and graduate
level courses. However, only associate degrees are awarded from USC Sumter. The other degrees
awarded by a senior campus in the USC system school but are completed at USC Sumter.
The two associate degree programs offered at USC Sumter are an Associate Degree in Art and an
Associate Degree in Science. These courses can also be used towards a 4-year baccalaureate
degree.
Four-year baccalaureate degrees offered at USC Sumter include a Bachelor of Science in Business
Administration from USC Aiken, a Bachelor of Arts with majors in Elementary Education and Early
Childhood Education from USC Upstate, a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from USC Columbia, a
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership from USC Columbia, and a Bachelor of Science in
Nursing from USC Upstate. In addition, a Master’s Degree in Education is offered on the USC
Sumter campus through USC Upstate.
USC Union
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USC Union, located in Union, South Carolina, opened in 1965 by an act of the state legislature. The
campus has been a branch of the University of South Carolina since its establishment. The intent
of the campus was to meet the university-level educational needs of Union, Laurens, Cherokee,
York, Chester, Fairfield, and Newberry Counties while guaranteeing a low cost education. The initial
class had 51 students; enrollment now approximately 500 students.
The purpose of USC Union is “to give the people of Union and surrounding counties an intellectual,
social, cultural, and physical setting which challenges them to grow in many ways and to develop a
desire for lifelong learning.” The university’s primary purpose is to provide the first two years of a
liberal arts university.
Geography and Natural Features
USC Union is a 7-acre campus located in downtown Union, South Carolina along Main Street.
Figure 3.9 shows the location of USC Union in the state, as well as the area immediately
surrounding the campus.
USC Union is approximately 75 miles northwest of Columbia, South Carolina.
Union, South Carolina is 8.0 square miles, all of which are land. The City is 816 feet above sea
level. There are no major water features on or
near campus that would pose a flood risk. The
Figure 3.9: USC Union
Southern Railroad Lines lie to the north, south,
and west of campus.
Climate
According to climate summary information for
Union County from the South Carolina
Department of Natural Resources, the average
annual high temperature is 72.7 degrees
Fahrenheit and the average annual low
temperature is 46.2 degrees Fahrenheit. 5
There are four distinct seasons, but they tend
to be mild. The summer months of June to
August have average high temperatures
between 87 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit. The
highest temperature recorded in the county
was 110 degrees Fahrenheit in 1925. The
winter months, December through February,
have average high temperatures between 53
and 57 degrees Fahrenheit. The lowest
temperature ever recorded in the county was 11 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the standing
state minimum temperature record. The annual
average of precipitation in Union is 47.56
inches. In addition, the county receives an
average of 2.4 inches of snow. Rainfall amounts
are generally consistent, but March is the
wettest month, averaging 5.18 inches.
5
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Recording period: 7/1/1949 – 12/31/2005
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Population
Total enrollment for USC Union in Fall 2011 was 492 students. The student enrollment is about
equally split between full-time and part-time attendees. Table 3.8 lists the student make-up by
education level, gender, and full-time or part-time status.
Table 3.8: USC Union Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
TOTAL
Fulltime
89
Female
Parttime
109
Fulltime
136
Parttime
158
Combined
Fulltime
225
Parttime
267
Total
492
Source: www.sc.edu
According to U.S. Census data, the 2000 population of the City of Union was 8,793 persons, a 3.3
percent decline from the 2000 population. The 2000 racial make-up of the city was as follows: 56.5
percent white persons, 42.1 percent African American persons, 0.4 percent Asian persons, and 0.2
American Indian. Just 0.7 percent of the population was of Hispanic or Latin origin. Of the
population over 25 years of age, 14.1 percent had a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median
household income in 1999 was $26,110.
Curriculum Overview
USC Union offers courses towards an Associate’s Degree in Arts or Science. The courses offered at
the university may also serve as the foundation of a four-year degree. Some upper level courses
towards a bachelor degree are offered at the university. However, the university only confers
Associate’s degrees.
USC Upstate
The USC Upstate Campus, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, opened in 1967 as the
Spartanburg Regional Campus. Initially, the university only offered a two-year, associate’s degree
in nursing. However, by 1975, as a result of increasing enrollment, the school became a senior
campus, offering four-year, bachelor’s degrees and was renamed the University of South Carolina
Spartanburg. Enrollment continued to grow, and the university formed partnerships with many
area corporations and institutions. In 2004, as a result of increased regional presence, the name
was officially changed to the University of South Carolina Upstate.
There are several goals associated the USC Upstate mission statement, which was approved in
2006. Overall, the university aims to become a leading metropolitan university which
“acknowledges as its fundamental reason for being is its relationship to its surrounding cities, their
connecting corridors and expanding populations.” Goals associated with being a metropolitan
university include: Offering baccalaureate and master’s degrees in response to regional demand;
preparing students to participate as responsible citizens in a diverse, global and knowledge-based
society in order to pursue excellence in their chosen careers; promoting global perspectives across
the university’s programs; and maintaining partnerships with the education, corporate, and service
organizations of the Upstate. In addition, there are three core values to support this mission:
1) People Come First: The value recognizes that people are the university’s most valuable
assets.
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2) Stewardship of Resources: Evaluating resources is vital to getting the highest value on
investments and accomplishing the university’s mission.
3) Integrity: This includes a passion for teaching and learning, and a belief that every
employee and student has a right to learn and progress as far as he or she is able.
USC Upstate has the second largest enrollment of the USC regional campuses (second to USC
Columbia) and is one of three campuses to offer graduate level courses. In addition, the campus
has its own Division I athletics (separate from USC Columbia), which are nicknamed the Spartans.
Geography and Natural Features
Figure 3.10: USC Upstate
USC Upstate is a 328-acre campus located at
the intersection of I-85 and I-26 in
Spartanburg, South Carolina (Spartanburg
County), making it a prime location for
industry. It is approximately 90 miles
northwest of Columbia, and lies along I-85
between Charlotte (75 miles) and Atlanta (175
miles). Figure 3.10 shows the location of USC
Spartanburg in the state, as well as the area
immediately surrounding the campus. There
are no major natural water features but a
sizable dam lies just west of campus.
The campus sits in the foothills of the Blue
Ridge Mountains near the City of Spartanburg.
Spartanburg, South Carolina is 19.2 square
miles of which 19.1 square miles are land and
0.1 square miles is water. The City is 816 feet
above sea level.
Climate
According to weather information from the
South Carolina Department of Natural
Resources at the Greenville-Spartanburg
International Airport, the average annual high
temperature is 71 degrees Fahrenheit and the average annual low temperature is 50 degrees
Fahrenheit. 1 There are four distinct seasons, but they tend to be mild. The summer months of
June to August have average high temperatures between 86 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit. The
highest temperature recorded was 105 degrees Fahrenheit in 2007. The winter months, December
through February, have average high temperatures between 51 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The
annual average of precipitation in Spartanburg is 49.91 inches. In addition, the county receives an
average of 5.3 inches of snow each year. Rainfall amounts are slightly higher in the spring months,
and March is the wettest month, averaging 5.17 inches.
Population
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Total enrollment for USC Upstate in Fall 2011 was 5,493 students. This is includes full-time and
part-time undergraduate and graduate students. The student enrollment is predominately full-time
undergraduate students. Table 3.9 lists the student make-up by education level, gender, and fulltime or part-time status.
Table 3.9: USC Upstate Student Enrollment (Fall 2011)
Male
Undergraduate
Graduate
TOTAL
Fulltime
1,454
0
1,454
Female
Parttime
499
6
499
Fulltime
2,719
6
2,725
Parttime
746
63
809
Combined
Fulltime
4,173
6
4,179
Parttime
1,245
69
1,314
Total
5,418
75
5,493
Source: www.sc.edu
In addition, there are 231 full-time and 268 part-time faculty members.
According to U.S. Census data, the 2006 population of the City of Spartanburg was 38,561
persons, a 3.3 percent decline from the 2000 population. The 2000 racial make-up of the city was
as follows: 49.6 percent African American persons, 47.2 percent white persons, 1.3 percent Asian
persons, and 0.2 American Indian. Nearly 2.0 percent of the population was of Hispanic or Latin
origin. Of the population over 25 years of age, 26.0 percent had a bachelor’s degree or higher. The
median household income in 1999 was $28,735.
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