803-313-7073

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Fresh Start. Flexible Finish.

Earn Your Associate Degree at USC Lancaster!

Established in 1959, USC Lancaster is the oldest of the University of South Carolina’s regional campuses. Since then, the campus and student body have grown, but our mission remains the same. We’re devoted to preparing students to continue their education in the University and throughout life. 

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Flexible

Palmetto College at USC Lancaster offers a convenient way to complete your degree without taking time away from work, family, or your community. If you're a full-time student, the program should take about two years, the same as if you were attending class in person.

Affordable

Palmetto College tuition rates are the lowest in the USC system, making a high-quality, accredited degree more accessible without sacrificing the value or reputation of your education. This allows you to invest in your future without taking on unnecessary financial stress.

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Reputable

Because Palmetto College associate degrees are issued by our regional campuses within the USC system, your degree is nationally recognized and offered by world-class faculty. Your diploma will be identical to those earned by students on campus.

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Why Palmetto College at USC Lancaster?

As a Palmetto College Campus of the University of South Carolina, USC Lancaster offers students a flexible, affordable way to earn their associate degree online or in person. Our degrees are a great path to a short-term credential,  with the option to apply the credits towards a baccalaureate degree.

Associate Degrees:

  • Associate of Arts
  • Associate of Science
  • Associate in Science - Business *
  • Associate in Science - Criminal Justice

* The Associate of Science in Business is an ACBSP-accredited program.

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Endless Opportunities

Your degree will expand your options for employment and higher earnings: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, workers who have an associate degree earn about $8,000 more per year than those with only a high school diploma.

Our graduates often continue into our Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs.

Prerequisites and Requirements

To enroll in the Palmetto College online degree program:

  • Freshman applicants must have a high school diploma from a regionally accredited association or its equivalent (GED) prior to enrolling.
  • High school transcripts for freshman applicants must show completion of the College Preparatory Curriculum, which includes 20 units, along with a 2.0 GPA (4.0 scale) or higher.
  • Applicants who did not graduate from high school must submit a copy of a GED certificate or satisfactory GED test scores.
  • Prospective students transferring from another institution must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher (4.0 scale). If fewer than 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) of college-level work have been attempted, the applicant must also meet freshman admission requirements.
I originally planned to attend USCL for a single year, but the supportive resources like the academic success center, internship coordinator, Trio Opportunity Scholars, Medford Library, and the Student Life were too good to give up... I feel prepared for the endeavors ahead, because of the skills and experiences I've gained at USC Lancaster.
Erika Vancampenhoudt
Erika Vancampenhoudt
I am so thankful I chose to complete my nursing education through Palmetto College on the USCL campus. My professors work with all students while pushing us to achieve our best. I love the USCL campus because there are so many opportunities to get involved and to meet new people. I am looking forward to the next three years and completing my BSN education here at USCL.
Nicole Ramsey
McKenzie Sherrill

Frequently Asked Questions

Tuition and fees for USC Lancaster can be found by following the link below for the most up-to-date information.

USC Lancaster Tuition and Fees

Our Locations

USC Lancaster:
476 Hubbard Drive
Lancaster, SC 29720

USC Lancaster Native American Studies Center:
119 S. Main Street
Lancaster, SC 29720

USC Lancaster Indian Land Location:
8063 River Road
Indian Land, SC 29707

USC Lancaster Campus Map

Our Location – USC Lancaster | University of South Carolina

Campus Calendar: Calendar – USC Lancaster | University of South Carolina

Summer 2026:
May 11, 2026 – July 30, 2026

Fall 2026:
August 18, 2026 – December 4, 2026

Spring 2027:
January 11, 2027 – April 26, 2027

Summer 2027: TBD

We offer flexible learning options to meet a variety of student needs. Students can choose a fully online experience if they are unable to attend classes in person, or opt for a flex or hybrid schedule that blends online and in-person learning. Our fully online courses are 100% asynchronous and are taught by USC faculty, allowing students to learn on their own schedule while still receiving a high-quality education.

Financial aid information for USC Lancaster can be found by following the link below. The page includes details on available grants, loans, and scholarship opportunities to help support your education.

Financial Aid and Veterans/Military – USC Lancaster | University of South Carolina

Yes, you can schedule a campus tour at any time. If you’re unable to visit in person, a virtual tour option is also available.  Experience The University of South Carolina Lancaster in Virtual Reality.

Visit Campus – USC Lancaster | University of South Carolina

Ready to get started?

Our trained representatives can create a plan that takes into account your earned credits and your unique circumstances. 

Get Started

476 Hubbard Drive, Lancaster, SC 29720 | 803-313-7073 | pcadm@mailbox.sc.edu