Top South Carolina Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024 & 2025

Top South Carolina Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024 & 2025

Looking ahead to 2030, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services anticipates a shortage of 10,400 nurses in South Carolina. With 25 fully-accredited nursing schools in the state and additional programs seeking approval, the task of selecting the most suitable option becomes pivotal. As the nursing deficit is projected to reach 10,000 by 2030, it is crucial to explore the top nursing programs in South Carolina that can equip individuals to meet this growing demand. This comprehensive guide delves into the premier nursing programs in South Carolina, providing insights into salary and employment prospects while also addressing the process of obtaining a South Carolina nursing license. Continue reading to gain valuable information on the journey to becoming a nurse in South Carolina, or navigate directly to our curated lists featuring the best nursing schools or the finest nurse practitioner (NP) programs in the state.

The Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina

Whether aspiring for a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN), a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), or a graduate degree in nursing, South Carolina offers a diverse array of nursing programs tailored to individual career goals.

Our Methodology: Employing a data-driven approach, we utilize a methodology to rank the best nursing schools in South Carolina, simplifying the process for prospective students. Our metrics prioritize factors crucial to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Data is sourced from publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and is current as of the publication date of this article. It is important to note that program-specific details may vary.

Top South Carolina Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024 & 2025

#1 Anderson University

Anderson, SC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Anderson University, a private Christian institution, stands out by offering various nursing programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Program Options:
– Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (TBSN)
– Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
– RN to BSN
– BSN to MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
– BSN to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
– MSN to DNP (Advanced Practice Nursing, Executive Leadership)

Located in Anderson, South Carolina, the university provides flexibility for students, allowing them to choose from on-campus, online, and hybrid programs. The accelerated BSN track enables those with some college experience to graduate in just 15 months.

Admission Requirements:
– Undergraduate: High school degree and standardized tests
– Graduate: Undergraduate or graduate degree

Tuition:
– $500/credit (BSN)
– $890/credit (ABSN)
– $755/credit (MSN)
– $855/credit (DNP)

Time Commitment: 15 months to 4 years, depending on the program

Campus Requirements: Varied based on the program

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 92.42%

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $113,692 for bachelor’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)

Average Tuition:
– In-state: $26,820 (Undergraduate and Graduate)
– Out-of-state: $26,820 (Undergraduate and Graduate)

Retention Rate: 84%

Admission Rate: 59%

Students Enrolled: 3,848

Institution Type: Private

Online Enrollment: 60%

Accreditation: Yes (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges)

#2 Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Bob Jones University, a private Christian institution located in Greenville, distinguishes itself with its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

Program:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus: Greenville, South Carolina

Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools

Tuition:
– $10,605/semester (Undergraduate)
– $6,900/semester (Graduate)

Admission Requirements: High school transcripts or GED certificate, a personal profession of faith, and two references.

Time Commitment: Four years

On-Campus Requirements: Yes

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 83.87%

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,240 for bachelor’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)

Average Tuition:
– In-state: $19,288 (Undergraduate and Graduate)
– Out-of-state: $19,288 (Undergraduate and Graduate)

Retention Rate: 86%

Students Enrolled: 3,029

Institution Type: Private

Online Enrollment: 21%

Accreditation: Yes (Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools)

#3 Clemson University

Embarking on a nursing career in South Carolina is an informed decision given the rising demand projected by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, estimating a deficit of 10,400 nurses in the state by 2030. Clemson University stands as a prominent institution offering diverse nursing degrees tailored to both aspiring and experienced nurses at various stages of their careers.

Clemson University provides a traditional bachelor’s program extending over four years. During the second and third years, students engage in clinicals, honing their skills on high-tech human patient simulators. The university has also developed an accelerated BSN program catering to individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, offering a full-time, 16-month curriculum.

For registered nurses seeking to pursue a bachelor’s degree while continuing their professional roles, Clemson University offers an online RN-to-BSN program. Additionally, the university extends its offerings to the graduate level with a master’s degree featuring a concentration in nursing education.

Program(s):
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing — Traditional Track
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing — Accelerated Track
– RN-to-BSN
– Master of Science in Nursing

Campus: Clemson, South Carolina
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition:
– $8,560/semester for in-state students (Undergraduate)
– $20,532/semester for out-of-state students (Undergraduate)
– $9,930/semester for in-state students (Graduate)
– $17,450/semester for out-of-state students (Graduate)

Admission Requirements:
– For BSN: High school degree
– For RN-to-BSN: ADN with a minimum 2.75 GPA and an RN license
– For MSN: BSN with minimum 3.25 GPA, three recommendation letters, and an RN license

Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on the program
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 90.61%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,874 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $14,118
– Out-of-state: $37,110
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $10,600
– Out-of-state: $22,050
Retention Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 62%
Students Enrolled: 26,406
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 85%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Lander University

Lander University, based in Greenwood, is another noteworthy institution contributing to the healthcare sector by offering a range of healthcare-related degrees, including three nursing programs. Students at Lander can choose from a traditional BSN, an online RN-to-BSN, and an online MSN.

The traditional BSN program comprises 120 credits, designed to be completed in four years. For those who have already completed an ADN, the RN-to-BSN program allows students to seamlessly pick up where they left off. Lander University also offers an online MSN program with a focus on clinical nurse leader concentration, requiring students to complete clinical nurse leader practicum courses and accumulate 400 clinical hours.

Program(s):
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing
– RN-to-BSN
– Master of Science in Nursing with a Clinical Nurse Leader Concentration

Campus: Greenwood, South Carolina
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition:
– $11,700 per year for in-state students (Undergraduate)
– $21,300 per year for out-of-state students (Undergraduate)
– $6,540 per year (Graduate)

Admission Requirements:
– For BSN: High school degree
– For RN-to-BSN: ADN and an RN license
– For MSN: BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA and RN licensure

Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on the program
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 95.83%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,189 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $10,700
– Out-of-state: $20,300
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $8,856
– Out-of-state: $16,844
Retention Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 57%
Students Enrolled: 3,513
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 81%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 University of South Carolina Aiken

The University of South Carolina Aiken contributes significantly to nursing education, offering both a traditional BSN and an RN-to-BSN program. The traditional BSN program spans four years, requiring students to apply after completing prerequisite college coursework.

For registered nurses seeking to obtain their bachelor’s degree, the online RN-to-BSN program at the University of South Carolina Aiken provides an accelerated path, allowing graduation in as little as 12 months.

Program(s):
– Traditional BSN
– RN-to-BSN Completion Track

Campus: Aiken, South Carolina
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition:
– $10,398 per year for in-state students (BSN)
– $20,856 per year for out-of-state students (BSN)
– $306 per credit (Online RN-to-BSN)

Admission Requirements:
– For BSN: High school degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in all prerequisite college courses, two references, and an essay
– For RN-to-BSN: Associate degree in nursing, a 2.5 GPA on all prior undergraduate coursework, and an RN license

Minimum Time Commitment: Four years for the traditional BSN; 12 months for the RN-to-BSN
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (BSN); No (RN-to-BSN)
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 85.33%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,689 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $10,398
– Out-of-state: $20,856
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $13,734
– Out-of-state: $29,760
Retention Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: 56%
Students Enrolled: 3,944
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 94%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Online MSN Programs

For detailed information on start dates, credit transfer policies, financial aid availability, and more, we recommend reaching out to the universities mentioned.

How to Choose a Nursing Program in South Carolina

Selecting the right nursing program in South Carolina is a crucial decision, and this guide focuses exclusively on accredited schools, recognizing the pivotal role of accreditation in both education and career success. Key considerations encompass the total cost, including tuition and additional expenses, alongside financial aid availability. The NCLEX-RN pass rate, acceptance rate, graduation rate, program format, curriculum, and the location, especially for clinical placements, are essential factors to contemplate. This is especially pertinent if you are considering online education.

Why Become a Nurse in South Carolina

The burgeoning demand for nurses in South Carolina positions graduates of nursing schools exceptionally well for career opportunities. Despite the median salary for nurses standing at $66,050, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the cost of living in South Carolina, rated at 94.8, falls below the U.S. index of 100. Additionally, being a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, South Carolina allows nurses with a local license to practice in 39 other compact states.

South Carolina boasts some of the most picturesque cities and tourist destinations in the U.S., including Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island. Whether you appreciate beaches, landscaped gardens, parks, or relish in fine Southern cuisine, South Carolina presents a plethora of attractions.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in South Carolina

Both the cost of living and median annual nursing salaries in South Carolina are comparatively lower than the national figures. The median salary for a registered nurse (RN) in South Carolina is $66,050, in contrast to the national figure of $75,330. Similarly, the median salary for a nurse practitioner (NP) is $98,940, compared to $111,680 nationally.

While salaries may be lower than the national median, the cost of living is also lower. With a projected job growth of 9.4% between 2018 and 2028 and an anticipated shortage of 10,400 nurses, the demand for nurses is on the rise, contributing to an upward trend in salaries. Obtaining a degree from a nursing school in South Carolina is thus a valuable investment.

Some of Charleston’s most alluring locations also offer the highest salaries in the state. For those seeking an even higher salary, the lower Savannah South Carolina nonmetropolitan area reports an average salary of $72,920 for an RN.

Highest Paying Cities for Nurses in South Carolina

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Spartanburg	$69,260
Charleston-North Charleston	$69,130
Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Beaufort	$67,450
Florence	$66,240
Columbia	$66,100

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in South Carolina

South Carolina being an NLC state allows for practicing in the state with a license from another NLC state. However, if relocating to South Carolina, obtaining a South Carolina license becomes necessary.

RN Requirements:

Prospective RNs in South Carolina must graduate from an ADN or BSN program, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, and submit additional documentation, including a copy of identification, a notarized signature affidavit, and a 2 x 2 color passport photo form to the state board of nursing. A criminal background check is mandatory, and if the nursing school was in South Carolina, a certificate of endorsement form must be submitted. Graduates from nursing schools in other states should provide official transcripts. Detailed requirements are available on the state board of nursing website.

APRN Requirements:

For advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) licensing, candidates need an MSN or DNP and must pass the board certification examination. Additional requirements include a valid South Carolina RN license, confirmation of education and specialization, and, if intending to prescribe medications, an application for prescriptive authority, with completion of 45 hours in pharmacology coursework in the last two years, including at least 15 hours in controlled substance pharmacology.

Other Top Nursing Programs in South Carolina

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in South Carolina

How much are nurses paid in South Carolina?

The median salary for South Carolina nurses is $66,050, with variations based on location and experience. In the rural lower Savannah area, the average salary for an RN is $72,920, reflecting higher demand. The median salary for a nurse practitioner is $98,940.

Is South Carolina good for nursing?

While the median salary for nurses in South Carolina is below the national median, so is the cost of living. Being an NLC state, attending nursing school in South Carolina enables practicing in other NLC states. Many individuals move to South Carolina to enjoy affordable coastal living.

How many nursing schools does South Carolina have?

South Carolina boasts 25 state-approved nursing schools offering two-year ADN or four-year BSN programs. The BLS projects a 9.4% growth in nursing jobs between 2018 and 2028 in South Carolina. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services forecasts a shortage of 10,400 nurses from 2014-2030. Given the high demand, earning a nursing degree in South Carolina proves to be a significant investment for the future.

How do I get my nursing license in South Carolina?

To obtain licensure in South Carolina, graduating from nursing school with an ADN or BSN degree, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, submitting verification of identity and eligibility to work in the U.S., and passing a criminal background check are necessary steps. The South Carolina State Board of Nursing website provides comprehensive information, including fee details.