Online Nursing Schools in South Carolina: Choosing a Program

The demand for nurses remains high in South Carolina, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means opportunity for current and aspiring CNAs, LPNs, RNs, and NPs. Before diving into a new career, however, it’s important to think about training. Which degree do you need, and which schools and programs can get you there? And of those programs, which meets your needs as a student, professional, and person? Use EduMed’s guide to explore online nursing program options in South Carolina, review licensing requirements in the state, and see what the job market might look like for you after graduation.

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Profiling South Carolina’s Online Nursing Schools

Maybe you’re a high school senior and considering becoming an RN. Perhaps you’ve been licensed for a few years but want a higher salary by getting your BSN degree. Or you’re a nurse who’s ready to make the jump to advanced practitioner or teaching roles. Whatever the case, South Carolina has accredited hybrid and online nursing programs to meet your educational needs.

While some advanced nursing programs are available entirely online, most are hybrid or partially online programs. That’s because a big part of your nursing education must occur in person, especially when it’s time for clinical rotations.

This guide closely examines some of the best nursing schools in South Carolina. We also offer essential information on RN licensure requirements, nursing degree paths, earning potential, and how to find the best SC nursing school for your needs.

Undergraduate Nursing in South Carolina

Whether you’re just beginning your nursing studies or have previous schooling and work experience, South Carolina nursing schools offer undergraduate degree programs to meet your career goals. Here’s an overview of some of the most common undergraduate nursing degree options in South Carolina, along with examples of schools offering them.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

If you’re beginning your nursing career, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) will teach you how to provide basic patient care, take vital signs, and work effectively in healthcare settings. You’ll learn the basics in the classroom before heading into clinical training to gain hands-on experience.

Example: Midlands Technical College

  • Cost: $200-$600/credit (residency dependent)
  • Length: One year
  • Mode: Partially online

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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program could be the right choice for you if you’re looking for more responsibilities than a CNA. LPN programs provide training in handling additional medical and nursing tasks such as administering medication, blood draws and injections, assisting with minor procedures, and updating health records.

Example: Midlands Technical College

  • Cost: $200-$600/credit (residency dependent)
  • Length: One year
  • Mode: Partially online

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

If you want to gain the education, experience, and qualifications to become a registered nurse as quickly as possible, the ADN is for you. This two-year ADN program gives you basic nursing and critical-thinking skills while preparing you for the NCLEX-RN. ADNs work in doctors’ offices, home healthcare roles, nursing homes, and outpatient facilities.

Example: Midlands Technical College

  • Cost: $200-$600/credit (residency dependent)
  • Length: Two and a half years
  • Mode: Partially online

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Accelerated BSN programs are for people with bachelor’s degrees in outside fields who want to switch to nursing. With their applicable transfer credits, they can earn the BSN without repeating many general education classes. Expect to spend 12-24 months in a BSN program.

Example: Charleston Southern University

  • Cost: $650/credit
  • Length: 18 months
  • Mode: Partially online

South Carolina Graduate Nursing Programs

When you’re ready to advance your career and earn more money, graduate and postgraduate nursing degree programs — master’s, doctoral, and post-master’s certificates — are the ticket. These programs are ideal for nurses who want to specialize in particular practice areas, become nurse educators, or work as nurse practitioners.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Standard MSN tracks are for students who already have BSNs and RN licensure. These programs develop skills and prepare students for advanced nursing careers. For example, if you want to work in a specialized nursing area like midwifery, administration, or anesthesia, these programs are for you.

Example: Charleston Southern University

  • Cost: $625/credit
  • Length: 16-19 months
  • Mode: Fully online

DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs

A DNP prepares you for nursing leadership roles and positions as you put the latest nursing research into practice in healthcare facilities. A PhD is a degree that prepares you for roles in research institutions and at colleges and universities. DNP and PhD programs take 3-5 years.

Example: The University of South Carolina

  • Cost: $572/credit (resident) | $1240/credit (non-resident)
  • Length: 18 months to two years
  • Mode: Partially online

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

Post-graduate certificates further hone your skills in a particular area of the nursing field after you’ve already earned a master’s degree. Specializations include nursing leadership, mental health nurse practitioner, acute care nurse practitioner, or family nurse practitioner. Expect to spend 1-2 years completing a post-graduate nursing certificate.

Example: Charleston Southern University

  • Cost: $625/credit
  • Length: One year
  • Mode: Fully online

Bridge Programs in SC

Nursing bridge programs provide a faster education pathway for nurses already working in healthcare to expand their scope of practice and gain a higher-level degree. While other students may need a traditional degree path, working nurses can take advantage of their previous education and experience to get their next degree quickly.

RN to BSN

If you became an RN by getting your associate degree before passing the NCLEX-RN, an RN to BSN program will expand your nursing skills and critical-thinking abilities. Usually, these programs take just one to two years to complete. After graduation, you’ll compete for nursing positions with higher pay and greater responsibility.

Example: Aiken University

  • Cost: $306/credit
  • Length: One to two years
  • Mode: Fully online

RN to MSN

If you have RN licensure and an ADN or BSN, you can apply to most RN to MSN programs and complete BSN and MSN coursework simultaneously. These programs also develop skills for specialized careers, including family nurse practitioner or adult gerontology nurse practitioner. Expect to spend 2-3 years finishing an MSN.

Example: South University

  • Cost: $660/credit
  • Length: One to three years
  • Mode: Fully online

BSN to DNP

You can apply directly to a Doctor of Nursing Program if you have RN licensure and a BSN. A DNP is the highest degree a nurse can earn and will train you to work as a nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse anesthetist with the highest skill level and impact on patient outcomes.
Example: Medical University of South Carolina

  • Cost: $835/credit
  • Length: Three to five years
  • Mode: Fully online

Advancing as a Licensed RN in South Carolina

While getting your nursing degree is a necessary step in your career, it’s not the only thing you’ll need to accomplish. Nursing students in South Carolina must follow the licensure guidelines established by the South Carolina Board of Nursing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the state’s RN licensure process.

1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree

Your first step is to complete a South Carolina-approved RN program that readies you for the NCLEX-RN. While South Carolina’s colleges and universities are regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and Universities (SACSCOC), check your school for nursing program accreditation provided by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). You’ll complete your state-approved program before taking the licensure exam.

2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

The NCLEX-RN tests your knowledge in foundational areas and skills such as safety and infection control, psychosocial integrity, health promotion and maintenance, and reduction of risk potential. All South Carolina licensure applicants must register with NCLEX on the candidate section of its site, and the exam fee is $200. After completing the online registration steps, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test email letting you know you can schedule the exam.

3 – Apply for State Licensure

Each state has distinctive state RN licensing requirements. In South Carolina, you’ll need to submit a state application for licensure by examination before submitting your exam application. You’ll need a signed and dated 2×2″ photograph, a copy of your birth certificate or valid passport, and a copy of your social security card or permanent resident card. South Carolina also requires a certificate of endorsement sent directly from your nursing school and a $90 application fee.

4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure

Once you obtain your nursing license, you must stay up-to-date with license maintenance and renewal requirements. All nursing licenses in South Carolina expire on April 30 of even years. The State Board of Nursing sends renewal notices via mail or email, but you don’t have to wait for a notice to get started. You must choose from one of four renewal options, including completing 30 contact hours from a board-recognized continuing education provider. Renewals are $75.

5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)

South Carolina is lined up to potentially have one of the most significant nursing shortages in the nation in the coming years, and getting additional certifications can help you meet high demand, step into leadership roles, and make more money. First, you must choose a nursing specialty and complete an online nursing post-master’s certification program. After completing the program, you’ll also need to take and pass any additional certification exams related to your new scope of practice.

South Carolina RN Salary & Career Info

The registered nursing profession in South Carolina is projected to grow by 9.90% in the coming years, making it an opportune time to enroll in a degree program—whether you're entering the profession or pursuing an advanced degree to enhance your skills. This growth translates to 2,990 additional jobs being added to the field annually. Nationally, the profession is expected to grow by 5.60%, resulting in 193,100 new jobs. You might also be curious about potential earnings as a registered nurse after graduation. In South Carolina, salaries range from $60,780 to $98,980, with an average salary of $78,380. Salaries can vary depending on your location. In Columbia, RNs earn between $61,290 and $97,990, with an average salary of $78,470. In Sumter, the salary range is $61,500 to $97,220, with an average of $78,230. Refer to the tables below for more detailed data.

Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
South Carolina $60,780 $78,380 $98,980
Charleston-North Charleston, SC $65,730 $80,440 $100,800
Columbia, SC $61,290 $78,470 $97,990
Florence, SC $60,110 $78,020 $160,050
Greenville-Anderson-Mauldin, SC $59,280 $76,500 $96,610
Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Beaufort, SC $57,120 $76,490 $85,700
Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC-NC $58,110 $79,770 $91,190
Spartanburg, SC $65,150 $76,470 $94,160
Sumter, SC $61,500 $78,230 $97,220

Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.


Area Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth % Avg. Ann. Openings
United States 3,172,500 3,349,900 177,400 5.60% 193,100
South Carolina 45,140 49,610 4,470 9.90% 2,990

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Ranking Top Online Nursing Programs in South Carolina

With so many degree options and schools offering online nursing degrees in South Carolina, it can be hard to know which is right for you. To help you decide, we’ve created rankings of the best online nursing degrees in South Carolina. We evaluated each school based on the number of online programs available, the percentage of students enrolled in online classes, tuition costs, and how much financial aid they awarded each student.

1
The University of South Carolina College of Nursing offers online programs including RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, and post-master’s graduate certificates. These programs provide flexibility with asynchronous coursework, group projects, and interactive learning experiences. Some programs may require on-campus visits for clinical components. The online format allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities, supported by faculty and peer interaction.

Why We Selected University of South Carolina-Columbia:

  • The program offers flexible online learning, enhancing accessibility for working professionals.
  • Faculty are specially trained to create interactive and collaborative online environments.
  • Clinical courses include immersion learning experiences, providing hands-on practice.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$12,288
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,235
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course60%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award77%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
2

University of South Carolina-Upstate

Spartanburg, South Carolina

USC Upstate offers an RN to BSN program designed for registered nurses with an ACEN-accredited associate degree or diploma. The program can be completed online or with one day a week of classes at the Greenville Campus, and can be finished in one year of full-time study. It includes 32 semester hours of nursing courses, and in-state tuition rates are available for online students. Flexible scheduling with full-time or part-time options is provided.

Why We Selected University of South Carolina-Upstate:

  • Online students receive in-state tuition regardless of residence.
  • The program offers an RN-MSN option for advanced career paths.
  • Collaborative partnerships with over 100 healthcare organizations enhance clinical experiences.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$11,208
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,267
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course84%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award48%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
3

Clemson University

Clemson, South Carolina

Clemson University offers an online RN to BSN program designed for registered nurses with an associate degree. The program can be completed in 12 months and focuses on enhancing nursing knowledge in professionalism, community and family nursing, healthcare genetics, leadership, and research. It includes 31 semester hours of credit for prior learning and 32 semester hours of Clemson University coursework. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 2.75, an unrestricted RN license, and completion of prerequisite courses.

Why We Selected Clemson University:

  • The program offers an accelerated track with potential graduate course enrollment.
  • Students receive 31 semester hours of credit upon completing a key foundational course with a B grade.
  • The curriculum includes specialized courses in healthcare genetics and leadership management.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$14,118
  • Average Institutional Aid$6,620
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course49%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award84%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
4

Coastal Carolina University

Conway, South Carolina

The RN to BSN program at Coastal Carolina University is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. The program requires completion of 120 credits, with up to 90 credits transferable from an associate degree in nursing. Students must complete 24 credits of upper-division nursing coursework, along with specific core requirements. The program typically takes about 12 to 18 months to complete. Admissions require an active RN license and completion of prerequisite courses. Career outcomes include leadership roles and advanced nursing positions. Financial aid options are available to support students. The program emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates for impactful roles in healthcare.

Why We Selected Coastal Carolina University:

  • The program offers a well-rounded curriculum with a strong focus on evidence-based practice.
  • Coastal Carolina University's nursing program boasts high NCLEX-RN pass rates, ensuring strong job readiness.
  • The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring quality standards.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$11,460
  • Average Institutional Aid$7,201
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award47%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
5
The University of South Carolina Aiken’s RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses seeking to enhance their career with a baccalaureate degree. The program requires 120 credit hours, including 31 credit hours of nursing major courses and 55 credit hours of general education, core, and humanities courses. Students with an ADN degree are awarded 34 credit hours toward their degree. The nursing major can be completed in as few as 12 months. Admission requires an associate’s degree in nursing or a diploma, a minimum 2.5 GPA, and a current RN license. The program prepares students for roles like case management, clinical supervision, and public health nursing. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and includes an integrated patient safety and quality certificate. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to support students.

Why We Selected University of South Carolina Aiken:

  • The program offers real-world training through a state-of-the-art Simulation Center.
  • The curriculum includes specialized courses in gerontology and community health nursing.
  • Employer partnerships provide students with valuable clinical placement opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$10,398
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,310
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award38%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
6

Lander University

Greenwood, South Carolina

The RN-BSN completion program at Lander University is designed for working registered nurses seeking to advance their education. The program requires completion of 30 additional semester hours beyond the 90 hours accepted from previous education, totaling 120 hours for the degree. It typically takes nine months to complete. Admission requirements include an associate degree in nursing and a valid RN license. The program focuses on evidence-based practice, community health, advanced assessment skills, leadership, and professional development. Career outcomes include enhanced leadership roles and better job prospects in healthcare. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to support students. The program aligns with professional nursing standards, emphasizing excellence, integrity, and critical thinking.

Why We Selected Lander University:

  • The RN-BSN program offers an asynchronous online format for flexible learning.
  • The program provides articulation agreements with some SC Technical Colleges for streamlined transfer credits.
  • Lander University's nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$10,700
  • Average Institutional Aid$4,826
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course48%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award44%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
7

Claflin University

Orangeburg, South Carolina

Claflin University’s RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses seeking to advance their education. The program typically takes less than 18 months to complete and is part of a partnership with Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College and The Regional Medical Center. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring quality in mission, governance, resources, and curriculum. The program prepares graduates for enhanced career opportunities and is a crucial step for those interested in pursuing a master’s degree in nursing. Admissions requirements typically include an active RN license and a minimum GPA. Financial aid options are available to support students. Graduates benefit from improved job placement and the potential to become leaders in the healthcare industry. The program’s accreditation also supports future educational pursuits, as many graduate programs require a degree from an accredited institution.

Why We Selected Claflin University:

  • The RN to BSN program at Claflin University offers a deferred payment plan to help manage tuition costs.
  • Claflin University's RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring quality education.
  • The program provides an opportunity for registered nurses to enhance their career prospects with a bachelor's degree in nursing.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$16,476
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,565
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course12%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award50%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
8

Newberry College

Newberry, South Carolina

The RN-to-BSN degree-completion program at Newberry College is designed for working registered nurses seeking career advancement by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program allows students to complete the nursing course sequence in as little as 12 months, with courses lasting 7.5 weeks. Tuition is $395 per credit hour, including course-related fees, though students are responsible for books and supplies. Financial aid options include the South Carolina Tuition Grant and Federal Pell Grant. Admission requires active RN licensure, current nursing employment, and a “C” or better in prerequisite courses like Human Anatomy & Physiology. Upon completion, graduates can pursue leadership roles, specialized certifications, and enhanced career opportunities in healthcare. The program offers flexibility to scale coursework based on personal demands, making it ideal for working professionals.

Why We Selected Newberry College:

  • Newberry's RN-to-BSN program offers a fully online format, ideal for working nurses.
  • The program provides opportunities for tuition assistance through the South Carolina Tuition Grant.
  • Newberry's RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$25,650
  • Average Institutional Aid$16,450
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course3%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award53%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
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Shannon Daigle AUTHOR

Shannon Daigle is a healthcare education writer dedicated to creating clear, approachable content that helps students and professionals take the next steps in their careers with confidence. Thanks to a BA in Journalism & Public Relations from Flagler College, Shannon has a has a knack for research and breaking down complex healthcare topics from career paths and degree programs to essential student resources. Shannon loves to make healthcare education accessible, staying current with industry trends to ensure readers get the most relevant and practical information for taking the next best steps in their educational and professional journeys.

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