Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina

Last Updated On Apr 30, 2025

Expert Verified: Catherine Burger, MSOL, RN, NEA-BC, LNC

9 Min Read

2025 Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina

Finding the right nursing school in South Carolina is a big step toward your career, and one key factor to consider is how well graduates pass the NCLEX-RN exam. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked the best nursing schools in the state based on their NCLEX-RN pass rates to help you make an informed choice. These pass rates show how well a school prepares its students for the licensing exam, which is crucial for becoming a registered nurse. Schools with higher pass rates often provide stronger education and support. Choosing a school with a high NCLEX pass rate can boost your chances of passing the exam and starting your nursing career successfully. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Columbia International University

Columbia, SC - Private 4-year - ciu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Columbia International University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that uniquely combines clinical excellence with spiritual development, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. This campus-based program requires 129 credit hours and does not specify the need for ACT or SAT scores for admission. It prepares students for the NCLEX-RN by focusing on holistic care, ethical decision-making, and culturally competent services, all within a Biblical worldview framework. Graduates are equipped to work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to international missions, ready to take the RN licensure exam. The program's emphasis on integrating theory into practice ensures students become not only skilled nurses but also compassionate caregivers.

Accredited by CCNE.
129 credit hours required.
Campus-based program.
Focus on holistic care.
Prepares for RN licensure.
Biblical worldview integration.
Diverse career opportunities.
Emphasis on ethical decision-making.
Culturally competent care training.
Spiritual and professional growth.

Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC - Private 4-year - bju.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC, provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that blends rigorous academic training with a faith-based perspective on nursing as a vocation. This program stands out for its extensive clinical experience, offering six semesters compared to the standard in RN programs, and features a Fast-Track option enabling completion in 3 to 3.5 years. Admission criteria include a minimum GPA of 2.75, prerequisite courses with a C- or better, and passing the ATI TEAS Nursing Pre-Admission Test. With an impressive 98.0% NCLEX-RN pass rate, the program not only exceeds national and state averages but also prepares graduates for diverse nursing specialties and further education. Accredited by CCNE, it includes a state-of-the-art simulation center and emphasizes leadership, ethical decision-making, and community health.

BSN Fast-Track in 3-3.5 years.
Six semesters of clinical experience.
98.0% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
Accredited by CCNE.
Simulation center accredited by SSIH.
High-fidelity patient simulators.
3-year clinical program.
University Nursing Association for students.
Pinning ceremony for graduates.
Opportunities for medical mission trips.

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 offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for students aiming to become registered nurses. This campus-based program emphasizes a holistic approach to nursing, blending professional practice with faith-based values. Students benefit from extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings across South Carolina, supported by advanced facilities like a simulation center and cadaver lab. Admission requires SAT, ACT, or CLT scores, alongside official transcripts and essays. Spanning four years and 123 credit hours, the program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, with start dates in August and January. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students.

123 credit hours
Campus-based program
NCLEX-RN exam preparation
Hands-on clinical experience
State-of-the-art simulation center
Cadaver lab access
Four-year duration
Fall and spring start dates
SAT/ACT/CLT scores required
Official transcripts needed

Aiken Technical College

Graniteville, SC - Public 2-Year - atc.edu

Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Aiken Technical College stands out for its Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, designed to equip students with the necessary skills for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing roles. The program's blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience ensures graduates are well-prepared for the healthcare sector. Notably, it offers an LPN to ADN transition, enabling licensed practical nurses to upgrade their qualifications in three semesters. Evening classes cater to those balancing work and study. Accreditation by the South Carolina Board of Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing underscores the program's quality. Admission is based on academic criteria, with financial aid options supporting eligible students.

Accredited nursing program.
Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
LPN to ADN transition available.
Evening classes for flexibility.
Combines theory and clinical experience.
Accredited by SC Board of Nursing.
Quality education assured.
Three-semester LPN transition.
Flexible scheduling options.
Entry-level nursing preparation.

University of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken, SC - Public 4-Year - usca.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Carolina Aiken's online RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses aiming to elevate their professional standing without pausing their careers. Accredited by CCNE, this program stands out for its affordability at $9,486 total tuition and the ability to complete it in just 12 months. It requires a 2.5 GPA, an associate degree in nursing or diploma, and a current RN license for admission. The curriculum, aligned with the 2021 AACN Essentials, covers health assessment, pathophysiology, and ethical-legal issues in nursing, among others, with a 40-hour preceptorship for hands-on experience. Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles, including case management and public health nursing, with a strong emphasis on holistic care, population health, and patient safety.

Accredited by CCNE.
Total tuition $9,486.
Completed in 12 months.
31 credit hours.
Online program format.
40-hour preceptorship required.
Focus on holistic care.
Aligns with 2021 AACN Essentials.
Emphasis on population health.
Prepares for diverse nursing roles.

Midlands Technical College

West Columbia, SC - Public 2-Year - midlandstech.edu

Associate - Registered Nurse (ADN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Midlands Technical College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that equips students with the necessary skills for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensure. Emphasizing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, the program covers essential areas such as pharmacology, anatomy, and patient care strategies. With a requirement for prerequisite courses to be completed with at least a 'C' grade, the curriculum is designed to foster leadership and health promotion. The program boasts accreditation by the ACEN and approval from the South Carolina Board of Nursing, highlighting its commitment to excellence. Graduates are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam, benefiting from hands-on clinical experiences and simulated lab practices.

Campus-based program
Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
ACEN accredited
South Carolina Board of Nursing approved
Hands-on clinical experiences
Prerequisite courses required
Minimum 'C' grade required
Focus on patient care
Health promotion emphasis
Leadership in nursing

Horry-Georgetown Technical College

Conway, SC - Public 2-Year - hgtc.edu

Associate - Nursing - ADN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Horry-Georgetown Technical College provides an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (ADN) program, designed to equip students with the necessary skills for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful nursing career. This program stands out for its comprehensive approach, blending theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences across various healthcare environments. Prospective students must achieve a TEAS score of at least 75, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75, and complete prerequisite general education courses. The curriculum emphasizes nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, and effective patient care, offering flexible admission pathways to accommodate diverse student needs. Accredited by ACEN, the program also supports students through financial aid opportunities, ensuring a broad access to quality nursing education. With a total of 68 credit hours, the program is available at both Georgetown and Grand Strand campuses, requiring candidates to be at least 17 years old, possess CPR certification, and pass a criminal background check.

Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
Combines classroom and clinical training
TEAS score of 75 or above required
Minimum GPA of 2.75
Offers two admission pathways
Includes pharmacology and patient care
Financial aid available
Accredited by ACEN
68 credit hours total
Campus locations in Georgetown and Grand Strand

Francis Marion University

Florence, SC - Public 4-Year - fmarion.edu

Bachelor's - BSN (Pre-licensure)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Francis Marion University's Pre-Licensure BSN program stands out for its structured 2+2 approach, combining 59 semester hours of foundational coursework with 61 semester hours of specialized nursing education, including 500 clinical hours. This program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam through a curriculum that emphasizes professional nursing practice across diverse patient demographics and settings. Admission is competitive, requiring a 3.0 overall GPA, a 2.6 science GPA, and completion of prerequisites with a C or better. Notably, the program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on academic performance and readiness for the rigors of nursing education. With a commitment to personalized advising and hands-on clinical experiences, graduates are well-equipped for successful nursing careers.

2+2 program structure
500 clinical hours
Eligible for NCLEX-RN
3.0 GPA requirement
2.6 science GPA needed
Personalized faculty advising
Diverse clinical settings
Competitive admission
Focus on all age groups
Professional nursing practice

Florence-Darlington Technical College

Florence, SC - Public 2-Year - fdtc.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Florence-Darlington Technical College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that is meticulously structured to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN examination, a critical step towards becoming a registered nurse. This 24-month, 68-credit program is delivered on-campus, offering a blend of theoretical instruction and practical clinical experience. Admission prerequisites include a minimum GPA of 2.75, completion of specific prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better, and satisfactory TEAS test scores. The curriculum is designed to instill a deep understanding of patient-centered care, ethical nursing practices, and the development of clinical judgment skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the demands of the healthcare industry.

24-month program duration
68 credit requirement
Campus-based learning
Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
GPA 2.75 admission requirement
TEAS test scores needed
Focus on patient-centered care
Ethical practice emphasis
Clinical judgment training
Hands-on experience included

*Source: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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

Four years can feel like a big commitment, especially for nurses already in the workforce. Fortunately, South Carolina RN to BSN programs are perfect for nurses with an RN license and an associate’s degree in nursing. This pathway allows working nurses to earn their BSN in about half the time of a traditional four-year program.

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:

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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).

List of Nursing Schools in South Carolina

If you're looking to start or advance your nursing career in South Carolina, you'll find a variety of nursing schools across the state offering programs to fit your needs. From associate degrees to bachelor's and beyond, these schools provide quality education in cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville. Below is a table with details on each school's location, program highlights, and links to their nursing program pages to help you make an informed decision.

Jump to City:

Aiken, SC

University of South Carolina Aiken

Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Total tuition $9,486.
- Completed in 12 months.
- 31 credit hours.
- Online program format.
- 40-hour preceptorship required.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Aligns with 2021 AACN Essentials.

Anderson, SC

Anderson University

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Nursing – Traditional
Campus Based - Website
- 123 credit hours
- Campus-based program
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Hands-on clinical experience
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Cadaver lab access
- Four-year duration
- Fall and spring start dates

Bluffton, SC

University of South Carolina Beaufort

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX exam
- Eight-semester duration
- Patient-centered care focus
- Interprofessional teamwork emphasis
- Nurse Pinning Ceremony
- Registered Nurse career prep
- Practical experience included

Charleston, SC

Charleston Southern University

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 18-month program duration
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Starts Summer II only
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement
- 58-60 credit hours prerequisite
- Two letters of recommendation
- Lab sessions on weekday evenings
- Clinical rotations on weekends
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN Accredited Nursing Program
- Traditional and Accelerated BSN Options
- Christian Values Integration
- Competitive NCLEX Pass Rates
- Clinical Experience in Hospitals
- Human Patient Simulator Labs
- Multiple Career Path Options
- Comprehensive Clinical Training

Citadel Military College of South Carolina

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
- B grades in math/science.
- 24 cadets accepted yearly.
- Introduction to Nursing course.
- Focus on leadership skills.
- Sophomore year fundamentals.
- Junior year acute care.
- Senior year special populations.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Evening coursework for flexibility.
- Hybrid program type.
- Five-semester completion.
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
- 'B' or better in math/science.
- October 1 early decision deadline.
- March 1 final decision deadline.
- Designed for adult students.

Trident Technical College

Associate - Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- 65 Credit Hours
- Minimum two years completion
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Generic and LPN-to-ADN options
- Accredited by ACEN
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Anatomy and Physiology courses
- Microbiology included

Clemson, SC

Clemson University

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science, Major in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Eight-semester program.
- High NCLEX pass rates.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Small faculty-to-student ratios.
- Early nursing concept exposure.
- Diverse clinical rotations.
- High-fidelity simulation labs.
- Scholarships available.