Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina
2027 Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Pass rates improved from 2022 to 2024, with a slight increase in the average pass rate across all students.
- 2022: 87.46% (2,647 students)
- 2023: 94.52% (2,577 students)
- 2024: 95.77% (2,506 students)
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
BSN programs outperformed ADN programs in average pass rate, with a higher total number of BSN students.
- BSN: 96.67% (1,290 students)
- ADN: 94.44% (1,239 students)
Top Performing Schools
The University of South Carolina led with the highest average pass rate over three years, followed closely by Lander University.
- University of South Carolina: 98.61% (794 students)
- Lander University: 98.16% (272 students)
- Medical University of South Carolina: 96.98% (464 students)
Pass Rate by Program Size
Larger programs generally achieved higher pass rates, while small programs still maintained solid outcomes.
- Large (>100 students): 96.85% (1,363 students)
- Medium (50-100): 94.73% (854 students)
- Small (<50): 92.31% (312 students)
Consistently High Performing Schools
Several schools maintained average pass rates above 90% across all years of data, with the University of South Carolina and Lander University leading.
- University of South Carolina: 98.61% (794 students)
- Lander University: 98.16% (272 students)
- Medical University of South Carolina: 96.98% (464 students)
- Anderson University: 96.10% (205 students)
- Aiken Technical College: 95.76% (165 students)
Columbia International University
Columbia, SC - Private 4-year - ciu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia International University's BSN prepares you for nursing with a Christ-centered approach. The program blends clinical excellence with spiritual formation, including courses in vulnerable populations, leadership, and community health. You'll learn from faculty who mentor you in ethical decision-making and compassionate care. Graduates are eligible for RN licensure and can pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and missions. This campus-based program requires 129 credits and is CCNE-accredited. With a focus on holistic care and a biblical worldview, you'll be equipped to serve as a nurse leader locally and globally.
- CCNE accredited
- 129 total credit hours
- Eligible for RN licensure
- Faith-integrated nursing curriculum
- Campus-based program
- Diverse career opportunities
- Experienced faculty mentors
- Next start: August 24
- Integrate theory and holistic care
- International missions nursing pathway
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC - Public 4-Year - sc.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of South Carolina's College of Nursing prepares students to become competent, caring leaders in healthcare. The curriculum starts with pre-nursing courses in English, history, math, and basic sciences, along with foundational nursing topics like health and wellness, nutrition, and pathophysiology. In the upper division, students combine clinical hours, classroom instruction, and hands-on work in a state-of-the-art patient simulation lab. The program boasts a top 1% NCLEX pass rate and holds two National League of Nursing Center of Excellence designations. With $20 million in grant funding over five years and research funding ranked No. 28 nationally by the NIH, students benefit from a research-intensive environment. Graduates are prepared for careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings, with skills in leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork.
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Top 1% NCLEX pass rate
- Two NLN Center of Excellence designations
- $20 million in grant funding
- Research funding ranks No. 28 nationally
- State-of-the-art patient simulation lab
Lander University
Greenwood, SC - Public 4-Year - lander.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lander University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program stands out for its commitment to preparing students for the dynamic field of nursing. With a curriculum designed to foster professional growth, students gain hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge. The program emphasizes holistic care, leadership, and research, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for diverse healthcare settings. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it offers a solid foundation for those aiming to advance in nursing or pursue graduate studies. The campus-based program in Greenwood, SC, provides a supportive learning environment with access to faculty expertise and clinical experiences.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Prepares for professional roles.
- Includes leadership training.
- Research opportunities available.
- Clinical experiences provided.
- Supportive learning environment.
- Access to faculty expertise.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
Anderson University
Anderson, SC - Private 4-year - andersonuniversity.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Nursing – Traditional
Campus Based - Visit Website
Anderson University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional track is a four-year, campus-based program designed to prepare students for registered nursing careers. The 123-credit curriculum covers pediatric, surgical, adult, and geriatric nursing, blending classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences across South Carolina. Students train in a state-of-the-art simulation center and cadaver lab, learning from faculty who maintain current practice in local healthcare facilities. The program emphasizes holistic, Christ-centered care and prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Career paths include staff nurse, charge nurse, and leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. Graduates are also qualified for graduate-level nursing study. Rolling admissions and scholarships are available.
- 4-Year program
- 123 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- Starts fall/spring
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Cadaver lab available
- Christ-centered nursing education
Bob Jones University
Greenville, SC - Private 4-year - bju.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bob Jones University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program blends rigorous academics with hands-on clinical experience to prepare you for a rewarding career in nursing. You'll dive into courses like Human Anatomy & Physiology, Pharmacology, and Microbiology, then apply your knowledge in a state-of-the-art patient simulator lab. With six semesters of clinical rotations at local hospitals and a senior-year capstone practicum, you'll graduate with confidence. The program is CCNE-accredited and boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate. Beyond technical skills, you'll develop a Christ-centered worldview through integrated Bible courses and have opportunities for medical mission trips. Whether you aspire to work in acute care, pediatrics, or medical missions, this program equips you to serve with compassion and competence.
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Six semesters of clinical experience
Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN (Public Health Nursing)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bob Jones University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing, with a strong emphasis on compassionate, Christ-centered care. The curriculum covers anatomy, pharmacology, microbiology, and nursing theory, paired with extensive hands-on clinical experience in local hospitals. Students complete six semesters of clinicals plus a capstone practicum, developing critical thinking and leadership skills. Graduates are equipped for diverse roles, including public health nursing, hospital care, and medical missions. The program boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate and is accredited by CCNE. With small cohorts, high-fidelity simulation labs, and a supportive Christian community, students gain both technical competence and a sense of calling.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 3-year clinical program
- SimMan patient simulators
South Carolina Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
With a variety of nursing degree programs available in South Carolina, choosing the right entry-level path can feel overwhelming. The three primary options to consider are an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here's a closer look at each pathway.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
Now that we've explored the common entry-level nursing programs in South Carolina, let's examine the key differences. For students looking for the fastest route, ADN and nursing diploma programs are popular choices, typically taking one to two years of full-time study. However, it's important to note that an ADN leads to a degree, while a nursing diploma focuses more on training. For those already working as LPNs, South Carolina offers LPN to RN bridge programs, enabling students to earn either an ADN or BSN in a shorter time frame.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in South Carolina include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in South Carolina.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a great option for nurses looking to invest more time in their education, and it's often the preferred choice for students planning to pursue a graduate degree. However, it’s important to remember that a traditional BSN program typically takes about four years to complete. If you already hold an RN license (and an ADN), you can complete your BSN in as little as two years through an RN to BSN program. Additionally, for those with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, Accelerated BSN programs offer a fast-track option to earn your BSN in just one to two years.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in South Carolina typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Many students choose to pursue nursing later in life after earning a bachelor’s degree in another field. South Carolina ABSN programs provide a great opportunity for these individuals to earn their BSN in a much shorter time frame—often in just one year—allowing them to transition into nursing quickly and efficiently.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Nurses in South Carolina looking to advance their careers will find a variety of graduate programs tailored to their professional goals. For those aiming to expand their expertise and qualifications, options include a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), which offers advanced clinical training and leadership development. If you’re interested in specialized patient care, a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program may be a great fit, enabling you to work independently in advanced practice roles. Additionally, bridge programs are available for nurses seeking to transition into advanced practice positions. For those looking to make a significant impact in the field, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) provides the highest level of clinical education, preparing nurses for leadership roles in clinical and healthcare policy settings. Whatever your career aspirations, South Carolina offers graduate options to meet the diverse needs and ambitions of nurses pursuing advanced practice.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in South Carolina:
- South Carolina Nurse Practitioner Programs
- South Carolina MSN Program
- South Carolina RN to MSN Programs
- South Carolina Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- South Carolina DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in South Carolina
The licensure process for aspiring nurses in South Carolina follows a similar path to other states. It begins with passing the NCLEX-RN exam and submitting an application to the South Carolina Board of Nursing along with the required fee. Once licensed, nurses must maintain their credentials by completing continuing education courses during each renewal period.
Requirements for RN Licensure in South Carolina
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the South Carolina Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
One of the most crucial factors to consider when searching for the right nursing program in South Carolina is RN program accreditation. RN program accreditation ensures that the program meets the approval standards set by the state board. Graduating from a non-accredited nursing program could make you ineligible for licensure. In South Carolina, as well as nationwide, the two primary accrediting bodies for nursing programs are the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Cities With Nursing Programs in South Carolina
List of Nursing Schools in South Carolina
Anderson, SC
Anderson University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Nursing – Traditional
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 123 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- Starts fall/spring
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- State-of-the-art simulation center
Bluffton, SC
University of South Carolina Beaufort
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3 concentration options
- Starts spring
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Simulation Centers
- Service Learning at Lakota Nation
Charleston, SC
Charleston Southern University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 18-Month program
- 67 total credit hours
- Asynchronous online classes
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Clinical rotations on weekends
- On-campus labs weekday evenings
Citadel Military College of South Carolina
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Year program
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- High-fidelity simulation training
- Study abroad in sophomore fall
- Program for cadets and veterans
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 5-Semester program
- Rolling admissions
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
- Cohort-based structure
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- $40 application fee
Clemson, SC
Clemson University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science, Major in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Direct admission as freshman
- High-tech simulation labs
- Clinical partnerships with Upstate hospitals
- 8:1 student-faculty clinical ratio
Columbia, SC
Columbia International University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 129 total credit hours
- Eligible for RN licensure
- Faith-integrated nursing curriculum
- Campus-based program
- Diverse career opportunities
- Experienced faculty mentors
- Next start: August 24
Fortis College-Columbia
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- LPN/LVN entry path available
- Hybrid on-campus and online courses
- Career services for graduates
- RN to BSN pathway through DCN
University of South Carolina
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Top 1% NCLEX pass rate
- Two NLN Center of Excellence designations
- $20 million in grant funding
- Research funding ranks No. 28 nationally
- State-of-the-art patient simulation lab
Conway, SC
Coastal Carolina University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: SAT, ACT, TEAS
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Faculty-student mentoring
- Evidence-based practice focus
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
- Associate - Nursing - ADN
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 68 total credit hours
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
Florence, SC
Florence-Darlington Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 24-Month program
- 68 total credit hours
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Francis Marion University
- Bachelor's - BSN (Pre-licensure)
Campus Based - Website
- Starts fall/spring
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- 500 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- Faculty adviser assigned
Graniteville, SC
Aiken Technical College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, South Carolina Board of Nursing accredited
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Includes supervised clinical work
- Articulation agreements with universities
- LPN to ADN transition track
- Continuing education for career advancement
Greenville, SC
Bob Jones University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Greenville Technical College
- Associate - Nursing Associate in Applied Science
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Complete in complete the program in two to three years
- 5 start dates per year
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
Greenwood, SC
Lander University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Prepares for professional roles.
- Includes leadership training.
- Research opportunities available.
- Clinical experiences provided.
- Supportive learning environment.
Piedmont Technical College
- Associate - Nursing, A.A.S.
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Semester program
- 65 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 3.0 GPA minimum
Hartsville, SC
Coker University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 800 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Hybrid format for flexibility
- NCLEX prep included at no extra cost
- Guaranteed seat for pre-nursing students
- No prerequisites for pre-nursing entry
- Individualized study plans available
Kingstree, SC
Williamsburg Technical College
- Associate - Associates Degree in Nursing (AAS/ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in just five consecutive semesters
- 68 total credit hours
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Prepares for gainful healthcare employment
- State-of-the-art Simulation Lab
Newberry, SC
Newberry College
- Bachelor's - BSN Prelicensure Track
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Partnership with over 30 hospitals
Rock Hill, SC
York Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 5-Semester program
- 90% job placement rate
- Prepares for registered nursing practice
- Caring for patients across lifespan
- Acute and chronic care focus
- Clinical experiences in hospitals, long-term care, community
Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg Community College
- Associate - Nursing (ADN), AAS
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 98% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Focus on holistic nursing care
University of South Carolina-Upstate
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 126 total credit hours
- 97% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Ranked #2 Top Public School
- Ranked #1 Best Colleges for Veterans
- State-of-the-art Simulation Center
Sumter, SC
Central Carolina Technical College
- Associate - Major in Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 66 total credit hours
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Clinical experiences complement learning
- Located at Health Sciences Center
- Approved by SC LLR Board
- Competitive entry program
West Columbia, SC
Midlands Technical College
- Associate - Registered Nurse (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, South Carolina Board of Nursing accredited
- $14,008 total program tuition
- 28-Month program
- Complete in 5 semesters (28 months)
- 68 total credit hours
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 96% licensure pass rate
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