Spartanburg Community College vs Technical College of the Lowcountry

Spartanburg Community College and Technical College of the Lowcountry, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in South Carolina, offer diverse educational opportunities to students with unique aspirations. While they share a commitment to academic excellence, they also possess distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and goals. Spartanburg Community College boasts a higher acceptance rate, welcoming a broader range of students, while Technical College of the Lowcountry maintains a more selective admissions process. In terms of student demographics, Spartanburg Community College hosts a larger and more diverse student body, reflecting the vibrant community it serves. As for academic offerings, Spartanburg Community College excels in programs like Business, Health Professions, and Engineering, while Technical College of the Lowcountry specializes in fields such as Hospitality, Culinary Arts, and Marine Science. With varying graduation rates, each institution provides dedicated support services to ensure student success. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to delve into the specifics and discover which college aligns best with your academic pursuits and personal aspirations.
Spartanburg Community College logo

Spartanburg Community College

Technical College of the Lowcountry logo

Technical College of the Lowcountry

Overview

Location Spartanburg, South Carolina Beaufort, South Carolina
Campus setting Suburb: Midsize Town: Distant
College type 2 year 2 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate Undergraduate
Students retention rate 66.0% 42.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate Open Admission Open Admission
Application fees
SAT range N/A N/A
ACT range N/A N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants
Total number of admissions given out
Admitted students who chose to enroll
Yield rate
Test scores (SAT/ACT) Not required Not required
High school GPA N/A N/A
Recommendation letters N/A N/A
High school transcript N/A N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) N/A N/A

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $22,663

Out of state: $26,455
In state: $18,450

Out of state: $23,730
Average net price $4,195 $7,999
Tuition
In state: $5,880

Out of state: $9,672
In state: $5,400

Out of state: $10,680
Room & board
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

98.0%
Average amount $8,899
93.0%
Average amount $6,364
Students receiving federal student loan 6.0%
Average amount $3,150
6.0%
Average amount $6,712
Students taking out private loans 1.0%
Average amount $6,667
1.0%
Average amount $3,280

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 6,097
Men 38.5% Women 61.5%
2,046
Men 29.0% Women 71.0%
Graduate students N/A N/A
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Moderate
Out-of-state students 1.1% 5.0%
International students N/A N/A
Campus local/setting Suburb: Midsize Town: Distant
Dormitory capacity N/A N/A
First year students are required to live on campus? N/A N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from South Carolina California Georgia North Carolina Connecticut South Carolina Georgia New York Florida Hawaii

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Liberal Arts
  • Engineering Technologies
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Precision Production
  • Liberal Arts
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Automotive Technology
  • Multidisciplinary Studies
Students to faculty ratio 20:1 13:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 26.1% 12.1%
Dropout rate 50.3% 48.4%
Transferred out 8.7% 25.3%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,105
  • Year 2: $51,106
  • Year 3: $57,729
Precision Metal Working (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $54,418
  • Year 3: $56,716
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,031
  • Year 2: $50,856
  • Year 3: $56,250
Precision Metal Working (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $37,767
  • Year 2: $36,185
  • Year 3: $41,748
Data Processing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $33,992
  • Year 2: $33,138
  • Year 3: $36,182
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $33,363
  • Year 2: $35,772
  • Year 3: $33,209
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $30,709
  • Year 2: $32,925
  • Year 3: $31,134
Business Operations Support and Assistant Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $29,777
  • Year 2: $30,119
  • Year 3: $30,555
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $19,700
  • Year 2: $24,730
  • Year 3: $28,727
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $27,527
  • Year 2: $26,187
  • Year 3: $27,485
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,017
  • Year 2: $52,822
  • Year 3: $60,759
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $45,504
  • Year 2: $42,682
  • Year 3: $46,680
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $40,551
  • Year 3: $40,817
Business/Commerce, General (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $28,236
  • Year 3: $34,136
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $21,562
  • Year 2: $21,508
  • Year 3: $25,423
Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $19,455
  • Year 3: $21,616
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $21,508
  • Year 3: N/A
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $32,569
  • Year 3: N/A
Business Operations Support and Assistant Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $28,960
  • Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary differences in location and service areas between Spartanburg Community College (SCC) and Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL)?

    Spartanburg Community College primarily serves Spartanburg County in South Carolina, with multiple campuses and locations throughout the county. Technical College of the Lowcountry, on the other hand, focuses on the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, specifically Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. This means that the best choice for you will depend on where you live and where you prefer to attend classes.

  • How do the tuition and fees compare at SCC and TCL?

    Tuition and fees at both Spartanburg Community College and Technical College of the Lowcountry are generally affordable, as they are both public community colleges. However, specific costs can vary slightly depending on the programs and the number of credit hours you take. It's recommended to check the official websites of both colleges for the most up-to-date and detailed information on tuition, fees, and potential financial aid opportunities.

  • What types of academic programs are offered at Spartanburg Community College and Technical College of the Lowcountry?

    Both colleges offer a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for immediate employment or transfer to a four-year university. You'll find associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education courses at both institutions. SCC and TCL both have strong programs in areas like healthcare, business, and technology. However, the specific program offerings can vary, so it's important to review the program lists on each college's website to see which one best aligns with your career goals.

  • Are there opportunities for students to transfer to four-year universities after attending SCC or TCL?

    Yes, absolutely. Both Spartanburg Community College and Technical College of the Lowcountry have established transfer agreements with various four-year colleges and universities. These agreements make it easier for students to seamlessly transfer their credits and continue their education towards a bachelor's degree. You should consult with an academic advisor at either college to learn more about transfer pathways and specific agreements.

  • How do the campus environments and student life experiences differ between SCC and TCL?

    The campus environments and student life experiences can vary depending on the specific campus location and the student body. Both colleges offer a variety of student services, clubs, and organizations. However, the size and atmosphere of the campuses may differ. SCC, with its multiple locations, might offer a broader range of campus experiences, while TCL's campuses may have a more close-knit feel. Visiting the campuses or exploring their websites can give you a better sense of the environment that best suits you.

  • What resources are available to support students at Spartanburg Community College and Technical College of the Lowcountry?

    Both colleges are committed to student success and provide a range of support services. These include academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and financial aid assistance. They also offer services for students with disabilities and other support programs. The specific availability of resources may vary slightly between the two colleges, so it's a good idea to explore the student services sections of their websites to see what's available.

  • How do I decide which college is right for me, SCC or TCL?

    The best college for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as your location, the programs you're interested in, your budget, and the campus environment you prefer. Research the specific programs offered at each college, compare tuition and fees, and explore the student support services available. Visiting the campuses, if possible, and talking to current students can also help you make an informed decision. Ultimately, the right choice is the one that best aligns with your academic and career goals.

  • Are there any specific programs or areas of expertise where one college excels over the other?

    While both colleges offer a broad range of programs, they may have specific areas of strength. For example, one college might have a particularly strong program in a specific healthcare field, while the other might excel in a particular area of technology or skilled trades. To determine this, carefully review the program offerings and faculty expertise listed on each college's website. You can also contact the admissions offices to inquire about specific program strengths and specializations.