Finding the right nursing school in South Carolina can be overwhelming if you do not know what is available to you. With several schools offering different types of nursing degree programs, examining what programs exist in different parts of the state will help you find a school that fits your needs and career aspirations.
Geography
South Carolina nursing schools are best explored by region. By dividing the state into four regions (north, south, east, west), you will be able to determine if a school exists close to home or if you may need to consider relocation. Regions will also highlight any major cities or towns near the school to help determine what other resources are available in the area for those looking to attend nursing school.
North Region
The northen region of South Carolina offers two schools with different types of nursing programs.
The Greenville Technical School in Greenville offers an associate degree in nursing (registered nurse, or RN track). The school offers the opportunity for students to transfer their two-year associate degree credits to a four-year RN program. Greenville also offers a diploma program in licensed practical nursing (LPN). An LPN program is typically one year and does not allow you to perform as many tasks or work at the same jobs as an RN.
The Clemson School of Nursing through Clemson University offers a four-year RN program as well as a master's program in nursing. The master's program offers opportunities to specialize in different types of nursing, such as becoming a family nurse practitioner or administrative nurse. Clemson's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
The University of South Carolina upstate in Spartansburg offers a four-year RN program at the Mary Black School of Nursing. It is accredited by the CCNE and is the largest nursing program in South Carolina.
South Region
The southern region includes Charleston, an area in which several nursing programs are available. The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) offers a bachelor's of science in nursing (RN) as well as graduate courses of study from a master's program to a doctorate of nurse-practitioner (DNP). MUSC is accredited by the CCNE and offers comprehensive training and academics.
Farther down the coast is the University of South Carolina Beaufort. This school offers two programs, a four-year prelicense track and an RN program. Both tracks prepare you to sit for licensing and are accredited by the CCNE.
East Region
Eastern South Carolina offers several choices in nursing programs. Lander University offers an online only program that leads to a bachelor's of nursing science (RN) degree. It is currently being evaluated by the CCNE for accreditation.
Piedmont Technical School, which is located in Greenwood, offers an associate's degree in nursing with the option to transfer credits to a four-year school.
West Region
The western region of South Carolina offers two programs in Columbia, which is close to the middle of the state.
The University of South Carolina has its original campus in Columbia and offers a four-year RN program and continuing education, including a DNP and PhD programs. This school is the first accredited nursing program in the country and offers several research opportunities.
Located across town is Virginia College. It offers an LPN program and places emphasis on hands-on learning.
