10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Columbia, South Carolina

Aspiring students seeking degrees from accredited colleges near Columbia, South Carolina, will find numerous choices for earning a valuable undergraduate and graduate-level education.

From small liberal arts schools to large research universities, the colleges near Columbia, South Carolina, cater to various academic interests and career goals, as described below.

Featured Colleges in Columbia, SC

This list showcases the top ten colleges and universities in Columbia, South Carolina, presenting attractive options for prospective students.

1. University of South Carolina

With over 350 bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs, the University of South Carolina in Columbia is an excellent choice for those seeking to further their education.

Degrees are offered in many majors, including:

• business administration
• computer engineering
• journalism
• finance
• public health
• nursing
• psychology

This private institution consistently ranks highly by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best colleges in the nation, including top of the list for first-year student experience.

2. Columbia College

Columbia College features an immersive campus experience and more than 50 majors, minors, and concentrations. Within six months of graduation, 97% of their students are successfully employed.

Individuals can choose from several areas of study, such as:

• early childhood education
• criminal justice
• psychology
• accounting
• general studies
• public health
• business administration

It offers small class sizes and some of the best online bachelor's and master's programs, according to U.S. News and World Report.

3. Columbia International University

With its exceptional faculty and intimate class sizes, Columbia International University is recognized as one of the top colleges in South Carolina, particularly for their online courses.

Degrees can be earned in the following areas of study:

• education and teaching
• health sciences and nursing
• psychology and counseling
• liberal arts and communications
• business and management
• seminary and missions

Its career-focused programs provide endless possibilities for students who are seeking a Christian education.

4. Strayer University

Strayer University has a location in Columbia that offers on-campus and online programs. It features many resources for undergraduates and graduates in various areas of study.

Examples of degree programs include:

• business administration
• human resource management
• information systems
• health services administration
• cybersecurity
• accounting
• criminal justice

Several options for professional certifications and coding boot camps are also accessible across many fields and career-focused topics.

Scholarships, tuition discounts, and other financial assistance are available for those who qualify.

5. South University

South University is a private institution with a campus in northeastern Columbia, South Carolina. It provides many popular majors for earning an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree.

Students can choose programs in the following areas:

• business and technology
• counseling and psychology
• criminal justice and legal studies
• public administration
• healthcare
• nursing
• public health

Its small classes present opportunities for hands-on experience and personalized attention to help students achieve academic success.

6. ECPI University

East Coast Polytechnic Institute, or ECPI University, has a campus in Columbia. It is a private academic institution with a supportive student environment and a thriving on-campus community.

The following areas of study are available to choose from:

• information security technology
• software development
• cybersecurity
• cloud computing
• nursing
• healthcare administration
• medical assistance

ECPI prides itself on delivering a career-oriented education for adult learners seeking fast degree completion, as well as several industry-recognized certifications.

7. Allen University

Allen University in Columbia is a distinguished Historically Black College and University (HBCU) that prioritizes both spiritual growth and learning to aid in the success of its students.

It offers a faith-based educational experience across many subjects, such as criminal justice and social science, and graduate-level programs through the Dickerson-Green Theological Seminary.

This small university integrates theoretical knowledge with real-world applications into its curriculum, preparing graduates to pursue fulfilling career paths.

8. Benedict College

Benedict College in Columbia ranks highly among the top HBCUs in the Southeast. It prides itself on its diversity and delivering valuable education across many in-demand fields of study.

Several majors are accessible, such as the following:

• business administration
• computer engineering
• cybersecurity
• psychology
• education studies
• public health
• sports management

A leader in the community, it is a private institution focusing on providing comprehensive liberal arts instruction for undergraduate and graduate students.

9. Fortis College

Fortis College is in Columbia and is known for providing career-oriented programs preparing students for rewarding job roles in skilled trades and various healthcare professions.

Many areas of study are offered, such as:

• heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
• commercial driving
• welding
• electrical
• healthcare/medical
• nursing
• dental

Individuals receive career placement assistance from qualified staff. For eligible candidates, financial aid options include grants, loans, payment plans, and tuition waivers.

10. Webster University

Webster University is a private institution with multiple locations across the nation, including in Columbia. It consistently ranks among the top schools for its value, according to U.S. News and World Report.

They offer many undergraduate and graduate degrees and accelerated master's programs, in addition to several options for earning career-focused professional certifications.

Students can expect high-quality education through traditional on-campus programs and flexible distance learning.

What Is the Biggest School Near Columbia, South Carolina?

Boasting an enrollment of over 30,000 students, the University of South Carolina is one of the biggest colleges near Columbia, South Carolina.

Students can choose from over 350 degree programs, making the University of South Carolina an excellent option for achieving personal and professional goals.

How To Choose the Right College Near Columbia, South Carolina

Making a wise decision while choosing a college is essential as it can significantly impact a student's future and should not be taken lightly.

Thorough research is required, and several factors should be considered when exploring colleges near Columbia, South Carolina.

These include the school's location, campus culture, program offerings, and amenities. Tuition fees and financial support are significant criteria individuals should pay attention to.

Paying for Your Degree Near Columbia, South Carolina

Paying for your degree at colleges near Columbia, South Carolina, is affordable with the various financial assistance options each academic institution offers.

Students can explore many avenues for financial aid, such as:

• scholarships
• grants
• loans
• work-study programs
• payment installment plans
• employer reimbursement
• tuition waiver programs

The first step for prospective students is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which helps to determine eligibility for financial help.

Start Your Degree Near Columbia, South Carolina Today

Students can embark on a successful academic journey today by enrolling in a degree program and obtaining a high-quality education from one of these accredited universities and colleges near Columbia, South Carolina.