Best
Private Colleges in Columbia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Columbia, SC offers preparation for careers across organizations and industries. Programs typically include accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business communication, and business law, often with opportunities for internships or concentrations. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, financial analyst, sales representative, operations supervisor, or management trainee. Popular local options include the University of South Carolina, Columbia College, Benedict College, and Allen University, each offering business-related study.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Columbia, South Carolina, offers opportunities at the University of South Carolina, Columbia College, and Benedict College. Programs commonly cover developmental psychology, research methods, statistics, social psychology, cognition, personality, and abnormal psychology. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, social services specialist, or research assistant. A bachelor's degree provides broad preparation, while counseling and clinical psychologist careers typically require graduate study, supervised experience, and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Columbia, SC, offers access to programs at the University of South Carolina, Benedict College, and Columbia College. Students typically study programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Coursework combines theory with projects, labs, and teamwork. Graduates may pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, database administrators, cybersecurity analysts, web developers, or IT consultants. Internships and research can help students build practical skills and professional networks.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Columbia, South Carolina, combines classroom learning with supervised practice. Students study counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, crisis intervention, and multicultural counseling, plus practicum experiences. The University of South Carolina offers counselor education programs, while Columbia International University provides counseling degrees. Graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, addiction counselors, career counselors, or community support specialists. Licensure and supervised-hour requirements vary by role and state, so verify requirements before enrolling.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Columbia, South Carolina, offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's and advanced degrees. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, patient care coordinators, or community health nurses, depending on credentials and experience. Local options include the University of South Carolina, Columbia College, and Midlands Technical College, offering nursing study and clinical experience.

Best Colleges in Columbia, SC Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 17,100.0, compared with 23,730.4 at schools in the top 10%, making the top-school figure 6,630.4 higher.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid, while the average at top 10% schools is 89.25%.
• The average acceptance rate is 89.25%. Schools receive an average of 2,919.25 applicants, compared with 4,627.3 applicants at top 10% schools. The median numbers of applicants are 960.5 men and 2,073.5 women.
• Average test scores are 1,038.0 on the SAT and 21.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 1,604.0. The reported averages are 109.5 enrolled men and 113.25 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 28.8%, compared with 43.0% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rates are 21.0% for men and 26.0% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, five offer bachelor's degrees, five offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• There are five coeducational schools, with zero schools for men and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant and enrollment figures, test scores, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. In particular, weigh the higher median cost at top 10% schools against their higher average graduation rate, and consider how each institution's aid and available degrees fit your needs.

How much does studying at a college in Columbia, SC cost?

For a student in Columbia, SC, the available average total cost of studying is $18,264.80. Treat this as a typical study-year estimate, not the full price of an entire degree. At the University of South Carolina Columbia, Benedict College, or Columbia College, your actual expenses will vary by program, housing choice, and financial aid.

For planning, the reported averages are:

• Average tuition and fees: $20,632.60.
• Average room and board: $9,681.60.
• Average books and supplies: $1,187.00.

These are separate averages, so don't add them to the total as though they describe one student's bill; tuition and fees alone exceed the reported total. Compare each college's published cost of attendance and ask about scholarships, grants, and payment plans. Budget separately for transportation and personal expenses, too. With campuses and financial-aid options to explore, you can build a plan and feel confident choosing a degree that fits your goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Columbia, SC?

In Columbia, SC, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two years. At the University of South Carolina, Columbia College, and Benedict College, students generally follow these timelines, though majors with clinical placements, labs, or internships may take longer. Midlands Technical College offers associate pathways and transfer options that can help you plan a route toward a bachelor's degree.

How long it takes depends on your credits and course availability. You may finish sooner by transferring credits from another college, earning credit through AP or dual enrollment, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated schedule. Meet with an adviser to confirm credits apply to your major and courses fit your timeline.

Graduation rates show that completing a degree can take persistence: the average graduation rate in the supplied data is 28.8%, compared with 43.0% for the top 10% of schools. The average rate is 21.5% for men and 33.2% for women. These figures can help you weigh support, scheduling, and transfer options as you choose a Columbia-area college.

Salary

Graduates in Columbia, SC, can expect a median alumni salary of about $34,042. For graduates of top-10% schools, the median is about $49,496. These figures offer a helpful benchmark, though your own earnings will depend on your degree, experience, and career field.

Students at the University of South Carolina, Benedict College, and Columbia College can prepare for a range of careers while studying in the capital city. Your choice of major and opportunities such as internships can help you build skills and pursue higher-paying roles after graduation.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Columbia?

For many students, the University of South Carolina-Columbia is the prettiest campus in the city. Its historic Horseshoe, leafy paths, and handsome red-brick buildings create a welcoming sense of place, especially in spring. Beauty is personal, of course, but the central campus is a lovely spot to explore between classes.

What is the most selective college in Columbia?

By published acceptance-rate comparisons, Columbia International University may be the most selective four-year college located in Columbia, though rates change by year and source. The University of South Carolina is also competitive, particularly for some majors and programs. Check each school's latest admissions profile for the clearest comparison for your intended field.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Columbia, SC Ranking in 2026-2027

Columbia College is a women's college in Columbia, SC, offering a close-knit setting for students who want to study locally. With 1,856 enrolled students, it provides a smaller campus community than many large universities. Its 37% graduation rate and 94% acceptance rate can help frame your admissions and completion expectations. Total study cost is $19,276, while median alumni salary is $43,897. This option may appeal to students seeking a women-centered liberal-arts education in the state capital and nearby neighborhoods.

Allen University is a historically Black university in Columbia, SC, giving students the opportunity to pursue a degree within the city. Its enrollment of 610 suggests a compact campus community, which may suit students seeking a more personal college environment. The school reports a 13% graduation rate and a 73% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $12,540, the lowest among these five options, and median alumni salary is $30,193. Compare programs and support resources when considering this Columbia choice.

Benedict College is a historically Black college in Columbia, SC, where students can build a degree plan close to the city's services and opportunities. It enrolls 1,693 students, offering a campus community larger than Allen University but still smaller than many major institutions. Its acceptance rate is 96%, graduation rate is 24%, and total study cost is $15,708. Median alumni salary is $33,965. Applicants should review available majors, student support, and financial aid to see how Benedict fits their goals.

Columbia International University (CIU) is a Christian university in Columbia, SC, serving students interested in faith-informed higher education. Its 3,357 enrolled students make it the largest institution in this five-school group. CIU reports a 47% graduation rate and a 94% acceptance rate, alongside a total study cost of $26,700. Median alumni salary is $34,042. For students based in Columbia, the local setting can make campus visits and exploring the community convenient; compare degree options and campus life with your priorities.

South University-Columbia is a Columbia, SC, campus option for students seeking a locally based degree and access to the state capital. It enrolls 504 students, creating a relatively small setting among these five schools. The total study cost is $17,100, and median alumni salary is $53,229, the highest figure in this group. Acceptance-rate data are unavailable, while its graduation rate is 23%. Prospective students should verify current programs, costs, and campus services before deciding whether this school matches their plans.