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Strategically located across one of the most economically vibrant regions in the United States, Spartanburg Community College (SCC), home of the proud Chasers, empowers thousands of students to “Dream it, Chase it, and Live it.” Founded in 1963, SCC is South Carolina’s fastest-growing public college. With five campuses spanning 245 acres and over one million square feet of state-of-the-art facilities, SCC offers access to more than 70 innovative programs.
Accreditation
Spartanburg Community College (SCC) holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which authorizes the institution to confer associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in various fields of study. This accreditation demonstrates SCC’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards and ensuring that its programs meet rigorous evaluation criteria set by an established and respected accrediting body. Accreditation by SACSCOC affirms the quality of education provided at SCC and signifies that the institution adheres to essential guidelines for operational excellence, ethical practices, and continuous improvement.
For those seeking further information regarding Spartanburg Community College’s accreditation status or the standards upheld by SACSCOC, inquiries can be directed to the organization’s office. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges is located at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, 30033-4097. Interested individuals can reach them via phone at (404) 679-4500 or visit their official website for detailed resources and guidance on accreditation and its impact on higher education institutions.
Beyond the institutional accreditation granted by SACSCOC, Spartanburg Community College offers a variety of programs that hold additional accreditations from specific professional organizations. These specialized accreditations validate that the programs meet the industry standards to prepare students effectively for their chosen careers. For example, SCC’s health sciences programs may receive certification from healthcare-specific bodies, while its technical and engineering programs might be evaluated by organizations dedicated to those fields. This layered accreditation approach ensures that SCC students receive education and training that are both academically sound and professionally relevant, positioning graduates for success in competitive job markets or further academic pursuits.
The combination of institutional and programmatic accreditations reflects SCC’s dedication to academic excellence, student development, and workforce readiness. Such recognitions give prospective students, employers, and the broader community confidence in the value and credibility of SCC’s educational offerings. Whether pursuing a certificate in a technical skill, earning a diploma in a specialized trade, or completing an associate degree designed for transfer to a four-year institution, SCC students benefit from a well-rounded educational foundation rooted in quality and accountability.
Website: SACSCOC website
Scholarships and Financial Aid Overview
Financial Aid Overview
- Value Grade: B+ (Based on average net price, earnings potential, student and alums reviews, and other factors)
- Average Total Aid Awarded: $7,297 per Year (National Average: $7,535)
- Percentage of Students Receiving Aid: 99%
- Financial Aid Website: sccsc.edu
Financial Aid Breakdown
Students Receiving Aid:
- Federal Grant Aid: 98%
- State Grant Aid: 78%
- Institutional Grant Aid: 1%
- Pell Grant: 56%
Average Aid Awarded:
- Federal Grant Aid: $4,577
- State Grant Aid: $3,472
- Institutional Grant Aid: $1,283
- Pell Grant Amount: $5,059
How to Pay for College
“How am I going to pay for college?” is a common question many students ask. SCC’s tuition is the lowest in the region, and several assistance options are available. Follow these steps to determine your eligibility for financial aid:
Complete the FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential for accessing most financial aid forms. Complete it by May 1 for priority consideration for Fall Semester aid. Visit FAFSA.gov to begin.
Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (IRS DRT)
This tool electronically transfers your federal tax return information into your FAFSA form, ensuring accuracy. Steps:
- Log in to FAFSA or start a new application at FAFSA.gov.
- In the finances section, select “Link to IRS.”
- Log in with your FSA ID to retrieve your information.
- Follow the prompts to transfer your tax information.
- Explore Scholarships
Many scholarship funds go unclaimed each year because students do not apply. Visit SCC’s scholarship page to explore options.
Consider a Savings Plan
The Future Scholar 529 College Savings Plan, sponsored by South Carolina, provides tax benefits for families saving for college. Learn more on their official website.
View or download the SCC Financial Aid & Scholarship Guide for more detailed information.
SCC Facts and Stats
Enrollment Growth
SCC is South Carolina’s fastest-growing public college over the past 20 years:
- 52% increase in student enrollment since Fall 2020.
- 63% increase in students over age 24.
- 45% growth in headcount since 2019.
Tuition Costs
- One Semester: $2,376
- Academic Year: $4,752
SCC offers the lowest tuition in Upstate South Carolina. For tuition comparison, visit the Tuition Comparison Page.
Campuses
SCC has five campuses strategically located for accessibility:
- Spartanburg (Giles) Campus
- Address: 107 Community College Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29303
- Phone: (864) 592-4500
- Downtown Campus
- Address: 220 E Kennedy St, Spartanburg, SC 29302
- Phone: (864) 592-4052
- Tyger River Campus
- Address: 1875 E Main St, Duncan, SC 29334
- Phone: (864) 592-6200
- Cherokee Campus
- Address: 101 Campus Dr, Gaffney, SC 29341
- Phone: (800) 922-3679
- Union Campus
- Address: 1401 Furman L Fendley Hwy, Union, SC 29379
- Phone: (864) 466-1060
SCC Strategic Impact: Spark Center
Since its inception in 2007, the Spark Center at Spartanburg Community College (SCC) has emerged as a powerhouse of economic development, innovation, and community impact in South Carolina. This facility has driven job creation, fostered business growth, and contributed to the state’s economic prosperity. Over the years, the Spark Center has directly facilitated the creation of more than 130,104 jobs, an impressive testament to its influence and the opportunities it has generated for individuals and families across the region. By serving as an incubator and resource hub for businesses, the centre has collaborated with 160 companies, offering essential support, training, and infrastructure to help them thrive in competitive industries.
The economic contributions of the Spark Center are equally significant. Since its establishment, it has added an astounding $52.6 billion to South Carolina’s economy. This achievement underscores SCC’s critical role in bridging the gap between education, workforce readiness, and regional economic development. Through its dynamic partnership with local businesses, industry leaders, and community stakeholders, the Spark Center exemplifies the transformative power of strategic investment in education-driven economic initiatives. It is a shining example of how community colleges can catalyse change, innovation, and sustained economic growth.
SCC Rankings and Recognitions
Spartanburg Community College’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. The institution consistently earns accolades for its outstanding performance in several key areas, including academic quality, student outcomes, affordability, and support services. SCC’s focus on delivering high-quality education is reflected in its reputation for “Academic Quality,” a distinction that highlights the college’s dedication to providing students with rigorous, industry-relevant curricula taught by experienced faculty.
Moreover, SCC’s “Graduation Rate“ recognition showcases the college’s ability to guide students toward completing their academic programs, whether their goal is to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution. Its recognition for “Cost and ROI“ is another significant achievement, affirming SCC as a top choice for students seeking an affordable education that delivers substantial returns on investment. By maintaining low tuition rates while offering programs aligned with lucrative career paths, SCC ensures students can pursue their dreams without undue financial burden.
The college’s commitment to student success is further evidenced by its recognition of “Student Resources.“ From academic advising and career counselling to financial aid assistance and extracurricular engagement, SCC goes above and beyond to provide the support students need to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.
Additionally, SCC’s efforts have earned it rankings as one of South Carolina’s top associate degree colleges by prestigious organizations such as UniversityHQ and Intelligent.com. These rankings comprehensively evaluate factors like graduation rates, program diversity, affordability, and student satisfaction. By consistently earning these honours, SCC solidifies its position as a leading institution that empowers students, strengthens communities, and drives positive local and state changes.
Admissions
Prospective students are encouraged to apply early, as many programs fill quickly. To learn more:
- Visit the Steps to Enroll page.
- Schedule a tour (Virtual and In-Person options available) on the Campus Tours page.
SCC History
SCC began in 1963 as Spartanburg County Technical Education Center with 150 students. Over the years, SCC has:
- Grown to serve over 6,700 students.
- Added diverse programs, including the University Transfer Program and Distance Learning Department.
- Expanded to five campuses, offering state-of-the-art facilities and over 70 programs.
Spartanburg Community College (SCC) remains unwavering in its mission to empower students and contribute significantly to South Carolina’s economic growth. Through its diverse range of programs, community partnerships, and commitment to academic excellence, SCC is a key player in shaping the future of its students and the state’s workforce. As the demand for highly skilled professionals continues to rise, SCC’s dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education ensures its graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving job market.
At the heart of Spartanburg Community College’s approach is a strong commitment to innovation. The college continuously explores new ways to improve its educational offerings, enhance student experiences, and stay ahead of industry trends. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, developing industry-relevant curricula, and fostering collaborations with businesses and organizations, SCC ensures students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today’s competitive global economy. Whether through traditional classroom learning, online courses, or hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities, Spartanburg Community College provides a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive.
Accessibility is another core value that drives SCC’s mission. The college recognizes that higher education should be attainable for all individuals, regardless of their financial background or life circumstances. Through affordable tuition rates, financial aid options, and flexible course delivery methods, SCC strives to eliminate barriers that might prevent students from pursuing their academic and career goals. Moreover, SCC actively supports adult learners, non-traditional students, and those returning to education after a break, offering tailored services and programs designed to meet their unique needs.
Excellence is embedded in every aspect of SCC’s operations, from the high standards of teaching to the robust student support services that help ensure academic success. The college prides itself on its dedicated faculty and staff, who are experts in their fields and passionate about helping students achieve their goals. Through personalized advising, career counselling, and internship opportunities, SCC goes beyond a traditional education to provide the mentorship and resources students need to excel both in and outside the classroom.
SCC’s enduring commitment to helping students chase their dreams drives its ongoing success and impact. The college doesn’t just prepare students for careers; it empowers them to become leaders, innovators, and contributors to their communities. Whether a student is pursuing an associate degree, certificate, or diploma, SCC ensures they have the skills, confidence, and support necessary to reach their full potential. By focusing on student success, community development, and economic advancement, Spartanburg Community College continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and the state of South Carolina.
