Summer Alberts 
Institutions of higher legal learning in South Carolina have developed degree programs in criminal justice. These colleges are considering the students who want to pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, legal studies, and public policy. Also, with the focus on public safety and crime control, South Carolina aims to offer something for every student within the scope of criminal justice. You will learn about the accredited criminal justice programs of all the colleges in South Carolina and rank them based on the services they provide.
Why Choose A Criminal Justice University In South Carolina
Program Diversity and Specializations
In South Carolina universities offer multiple programs that correspond to the advanced American and international educational paradigm. The undergraduate, graduate, and online programs cover almost all areas of South Carolina, including and not limited to forensics, criminology programs as well as, law enforcement, and even security and intelligence about Homeland defense.
Career Opportunities and Alumni Network
These criminal justice programs open up several career options for the graduates within the state of South Carolina, such as local and state law enforcement, correctional institutions, as well as federal agencies. Additionally, the constantly growing alumni networks of these universities tend to help with career options further down the road, which allows for mentorships and employment placements.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarships and financial aid packages for students pursuing criminal justice are available from almost all universities in South Carolina, making this degree easier to pursue.
Top Universities With Criminal Justice Majors in South Carolina
- The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 99%
Tuition: Approximately $17,354 per year
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice has been designed with Citadel’s pedagogical approach at the forefront. Hence, military ethics and leadership paradigms are of great importance. Moreover, students are trained for roles in law enforcement, military, or public service positions by teaching them the workings of criminal justice systems such as policing, corrections, and criminal law. Graduate with the right skills for ever-moving job markets whilst ensuring you hone your leadership skills, vital for a career in the disciplined branch of criminal justice under The Citadel’s strict environment.
2. South Carolina State University
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Tuition: Approximately $11,060 per year
South Carolina State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice through its Department of Human Services. It provides a multi-faceted examination of crime and its causative theories, as well as society’s reactive measures. Core coursework includes all aspects of the criminal justice system, such as law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The program offers additional general education courses in English, science, mathematics, social science, and humanities.
3. Lander University
Degree: M.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate:68%
Tuition Fees: $10,700 per year
Practicing and gaining theoretical knowledge of a discipline is very important in today’s world. That’s why Lander University offers practical degree programs that provide courses in crisis communication, crisis leadership, mental health, and policy. This is the motivation behind teaching criminal justice where students are taught the intricacies of the discipline so as to be ready for the job market upon graduation.
4. Claflin University
Degree: Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 62%
Tuition: Approximately $17,046 per year
The Department of Social Sciences at Claflin University offers students a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. A firm foundation in the liberal arts, along with an understanding of the major aspects of the discipline, such as corrections management, law enforcement, court procedures and administration as well as criminal investigation, and criminal justice research. Students are primed to work as community supervisors, law enforcement professionals, or court administrators. The bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at Claflin University can serve as a stepping stone into advanced study of criminal justice or other related disciplines.
5. University of South Carolina – Upstate
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Tuition: Approximately $12,688 (in-state), $33,928 (out-of-state) per year
The University of South Carolina Upstate offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice through the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. The program aims to prepare graduates for impactful roles in law enforcement, the legal field, and public safety. Subjects offered include the study of crime, criminals, courts, policing, corrections, and victims. Students can opt for specialization in crime analysis by taking the B.S. in Criminal Justice with a Concentration in Crime Analysis.
6. Charleston Southern University’s
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 57%
Tuition: Approximately $26,000 per year
Charleston Southern University offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice through the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The degree can be earned online or in person, providing options for students. Topics in the curriculum include criminal law, criminal procedure, policing, corrections, forensic psychology, and juvenile justice. Students are allowed to witness firsthand the investigative processes, the collection of forensic evidence, and judicial presentations. Their emphasis on practical experience enables graduates to work in law enforcement, corrections, public service, and related fields.
7. Anderson University
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 53%
Tuition: Approximately $22,222 per year
Anderson University provides a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from its School of Public Service and Administration. Students have the option to complete the program fully online or on campus. The coursework spans the criminal justice system’s framework and functions, criminology, law enforcement, corrections, and public policy. Students will be ready to assume roles in law enforcement, corrections, victim and public advocacy, and public administration. The degree program addresses constructive responses to and analysis of criminal justice challenges.
8. Clemson University
Degree: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 43%
Tuition: Approximately $15,554 per year
Clemson University offers both BA and BSc degrees in Criminal Justice from the College of Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach to crime as a subject and includes salient subjects like criminology, criminal law, policing, corrections, and social justice. A student can focus on General Criminal Justice or Justice Leadership, enabling them to align with certain career pathways. The curriculum fosters rigorous thinking and creativity, enabling students to work in law enforcement, legal fields, or service-oriented careers.
9. Benedict College
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Tuition: Approximately $17,200 per year
Through the School of Communications, Arts, and Social Sciences, Benedict College provides students with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. The curriculum contains all-inclusive coverage of the criminal justice system, which includes: criminal law, juvenile justice, corrections, and law enforcement. Additionally, the curriculum has assigned to it skill-based components which include: critical thinking and communication, decision-making, and ethics. The students are primed to join the fields of corrections, legal services, law enforcement, public service, or other avenues on completion. There is also ample room for hands-on learning during community service.
- South University – Columbia
Degree: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Acceptance Rate: Not publicly disclosed
Tuition: Approximately $475 per credit hour, totaling around $18,000 annually for full-time students
South University in Columbia offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program that provides students with a broad perspective on the causes of crime and critical insights into the theoretical foundations and functions of the criminal justice system. The curriculum includes courses on corrections, crime and violence, ethical concerns, theoretical and applied criminal justice, and the adjudication process. The program prepares graduates for entry-level positions in the field and provides a foundation for further study in graduate or professional schools.
South Carolina Criminal Justice Schools Comparison
| College | Acceptance Rate | Tuition | Specialization |
| The Citadel | 99% | $17,354 per year | Military Leadership |
| South Carolina State University | 84% | $11,060 per year | Criminal Justice, Corrections, and Law. |
| Lander University | 68% | $10,700 per year | Crisis Management and Crisis Leadership |
| Claflin University | 62% | $17,046 per year | Liberal Arts and Management |
| University of South Carolina – Upstate | 61% | $12,688 (in-state), | Law enforcement and legal studies |
| Charleston Southern University’s | 57% | $22,222 per year | Criminal Justice, Law and Policing |
| Anderson University | 53% | $22,222 per year | Public Advocacy and Leadership |
| Clemson University | 43% | $15,554 per year | Criminology and Criminal Justice |
| Benedict College | 67% | $17,200 per year | Computer Science |
| South University | Not disclosed. | $475 per credit hour | Crime, Violence, and Ethical Concerns |
South Carolina has the best options for both undergraduate and graduate studies in criminal justice education. The undergraduate offerings at USC Columbia, Clemson, Anderson, Charleston Southern, and South Carolina State incorporate theories and practical components in policing, courts, and corrections. On the other hand, graduate program offerings at USC Columbia, USC Upstate, Lander University, The Citadel, and Charleston Southern focus mainly on leadership, research, and policy development. These programs cater to both freshers and actively employed individuals. Through a combination of online and face-to-face classes, learners are able to work towards qualifications in law enforcement, analysis, or public service, adjusted to their career plans.
Criminal Justice Colleges in South Carolina Admissions Requirements
Applying to a criminal justice college in South Carolina requires students and graduates to have a high school diploma or a general educational development (GED) certificate, transcripts, and standardized test results such as the SAT or ACT. Consideration is also given to a character certificate and a recommendation letter from a teacher or principal. For master’s programs, one’s undergraduate degree must be completed, and a strong GPA achieved. Having a CV and a short personal statement outlining your passion for criminal justice may also be necessary for some institutions. These processes help the institutions in assessing whether you are a suitable candidate or not..
Conclusion
Some of the affordable colleges that offer comprehensive criminal justice degrees are located in the state of South Carolina. These institutions provide both undergraduate and graduate-level programs. The students are adequately prepared for law enforcement, correction, and public service careers through the integration of hands-on experience and theoretical learning. Students are supported with strong faculty, flexible learning options, job placement opportunities, and other comprehensive services that help them meet their goals.
South Carolina’s criminal justice degree programs enable students to meet and succeed in their career goals. Getting started is as easy as looking at admissions and available programs.
Ultimate Criminal Justice Degree Guide
