2023 Best ADN Programs in South Carolina

South Carolina offers 36 ADN programs across the state, but how does a prospective student narrow down their choices? With the ACEN accrediting 18 of these programs, this serves as a useful starting point. Accreditation by a reputable body like ACEN ensures the program meets quality standards in nursing education, providing students with a recognized credential upon graduation.

The range for the average NCLEX passing rate in South Carolina spans from 59.70% to 98.60%. This statistic stands as a significant indicator of the program’s quality as it shows the percentage of graduates who pass the national licensure examination on their first try. Programs with a high passing rate often provide superior preparation for this crucial exam.

Earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) usually takes 18 to 24 months. This timeframe may fluctuate based on factors such as the student’s prior educational background, full-time or part-time enrollment, and the specific program’s requirements.

Looking for the best ADN Programs in South Carolina involves considering these factors: accreditation, NCLEX passing rates, and program length. Prospective students should also consider their personal needs and career goals. Is the program affordable? Is the location convenient? Will the program’s schedule fit with other responsibilities?

In the end, the “best” program varies for each individual, aligning with their unique academic needs and career ambitions. Potential nursing students should conduct thorough research, consult academic advisors, and visit potential campuses if possible. Doing so ensures they make an informed decision about the ADN program that will best serve their career in nursing.

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Discover information on start dates, credit transfer processes, initial salary expectations, financial aid opportunities, GRE requirements, tuition fees, student-to-faculty ratios, and average post-graduation employment rates.

2025 8th Annual Best Ranked ADN Programs in South Carolina

Best Ranked RN Programs in

How Do We Rank The Best ADN Programs In South Carolina?

First, we gather a list of all nursing schools offering ADN programs in South Carolina and then rank the best school based on the following factors:

  • Academic quality (admissions rate, enrollment rate, graduation rate & retention rate, NCLEX passing rates as college-wide quality): 70%
  • RNCareers.org’s editorial rankings and the nursing school’s reputation: 20%
  • The affordable of the programs offered by the nursing school: 10%
  • Our best ranked ADN programs earn a 90% or above grade

More about our ranking methodology.

#1 Associate Degree in Nursing

York Technical College/USC Lancaster

98.61% 3-Year
Pass Rate
York Technical College USC Lancaster
  • pin1
    452 S Anderson Rd, Rock Hill, SC - 29730
  • tel1
    (803) 327-8000
  • NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 98.61%
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate

University Information

  • faculty Total Faculty: 111
  • tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,050
  • book Book and Supplies: $10,354
  • receiving aid Percent Received Aid: 93%
  • scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $4,508
  • admitted Percent Admitted: N/A
  • enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
  • graduation rate Graduation Rate: 25%

York Technical College is a public college located in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Nursing at YTC is a collaborative effort with the University of South Carolina Lancaster, and students (including LPN students earning an AAS degree) prepare for advanced degrees at the university.

The nursing program at York Technical College prepares students for the practice of nurse generalists to provide direct patient care across the life span. The rigorous curriculum prepares students to address the acute and chronic health care needs of patients. The graduates of the program are employed in a variety of healthcare facilities including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health agencies.

Furthermore, The South Carolina General Assembly established an income tax credit for tuition paid to South Carolina colleges and universities to help ease the financial burden on South Carolina college students and their families. There are numerous scholarship opportunities available to York Tech students which are awarded differently depending on the availability of funds and the eligibility requirements of each scholarship.

Undergraduate Programs: Registered Nursing or Associate Degree in Nursing is one of the degree types available at York Technical College/USC Lancaster, and the school offers its services to students on campus.

Academic programs include AAS Degree - Nursing (ADN), AAS Degree - Gen Tech-Nursing (ADN), AAS Degree - Gen Tech-Nursing (Practical), and DAS (Diploma) Nursing (Practical).

In addition to the Associate Degree Nursing Program, the Nursing Department houses the following programs: Certificate in Nursing Care (CT.NURNC), Diploma in Applied Science with a concentration in Practical Nursing (DAS.NURPN), and Associate of Applied Science in General Technology with a specialization in Practical Nursing (AAS.GT.HSPN). All these programs aim to help students develop into expert healthcare providers and build a foundation for further academic advancement.

#2 Associate Degree in Nursing

Greenville Technical College

Nursing Division

94.01% 3-Year
Pass Rate
Greenville Technical College
  • pin1
    506 S Pleasantburg Dr, Greenville, SC - 29606
  • tel1
    (864) 250-8000
person
Nurse Admin: Tracy Hudgins, DNP, RN, CNE, NE-BC
Title: Academic Program Chair
  • NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 94.01%
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate

University Information

  • faculty Total Faculty: 346
  • tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,778
  • book Book and Supplies: $9,410
  • receiving aid Percent Received Aid: 95%
  • scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,967
  • admitted Percent Admitted: N/A
  • enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
  • graduation rate Graduation Rate: N/A

Greenville Technical College of the nursing program is a public institution in Greenville, South Carolina. They have been in operation since 1971 and are one of the largest nursing programs in South Carolina.

Employers express confidence in the program and the skills new nurses bring to the job, which is known for its emphasis on clinical proficiency in a variety of health care settings. Graduates' licensure examination passing rates are consistently at or above national and state averages.

Scholarships are a type of financial aid provided by GTC in the form of a monetary award or other assistance to students as they pursue their studies. The recipients are not required to repay the funds. Scholarships may be given based on academic achievement, talent, or financial need. Types of scholarships offered are life scholarship, palmettos fellow scholarship, SC Wins, Greenville Tech Foundation Scholarship, Private or sponsored/external scholarships, scholarship search resources, ETTA Gray memorial scholarships, Lillian Simpson scholarship, Laurel Scholarship, and Business Scholarship.

Undergraduate Programs: The associate degree program covers all aspects of the nursing profession and is designed to integrate theory as well as practical "hands-on" educational experiences. As full-time students, nursing students can complete the program in two to three years and practice as RNs after passing the licensure exam.

Post-RN Specialty Courses offered by GTC like the Dysrhythmia Interpretation and Physical Assessment, enable current RNs, other healthcare professionals, or nursing students with Instructor Permission to develop the specialist skills required to care for patients with critical conditions. The courses teach students the fundamental knowledge and skills required for safe, competent, and effective nursing practice in critical care and other specialty units.

#3 Associate Degree in Nursing

Aiken Technical College

93.51% 3-Year
Pass Rate
Aiken Technical College
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    2276 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, SC - 29829
  • tel1
    (803) 508-7263
  • NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.51%
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate

University Information

  • faculty Total Faculty: 52
  • tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,946
  • book Book and Supplies: $6,880
  • receiving aid Percent Received Aid: 99%
  • scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $4,438
  • admitted Percent Admitted: N/A
  • enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
  • graduation rate Graduation Rate: 26%

The University of South Carolina-nursing Aiken's school is a public institution in Aiken, South Carolina. The college creates a welcoming environment that is responsive to the students and their needs. The students here play an active role in their education.

In addition to traditional classroom education and clinical practice, the university also provides hands-on experience to students via a high-fidelity simulation program that allows them to practice their skills. This simulation lab practice begins from the first semester so that by the time students interact with real patients, they are apt in their clinical skills and reasoning. Similarly, in the variety of off-campus healthcare settings students learn practical skills, patient communications, teamwork, inter and intra-departmental coordination, and other critical clinical skills. After graduation, the nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings such as mental health, forensics, oncology, informatics, and others.

Undergraduate Programs: The University of South Carolina offers one of the best Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs in the state. Graduates of this program are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and work as successful nurses.

They can also enroll in the RN to a BSN program where students with an associate degree or diploma in nursing can complete their bachelor’s degree in as little as 12 months for an affordable price.

#4 Associate Degree in Nursing

Trident Technical College

92.27% 3-Year
Pass Rate
Trident Technical College
  • pin1
    7000 Rivers Avenue, Charleston, SC - 29423-8067
  • tel1
    (843) 574-6111
  • NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.27%
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate

University Information

  • faculty Total Faculty: 245
  • tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,648
  • book Book and Supplies: $8,690
  • receiving aid Percent Received Aid: 94%
  • scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $7,236
  • admitted Percent Admitted: N/A
  • enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
  • graduation rate Graduation Rate: 18%

Trident Technical College is a public college in Charleston, South Carolina. They provide several degree options for students interested in pursuing a career in nursing, including a practical nursing program and an ADN program. Trident Technical College is the Lowcountry's largest provider of quality nursing education.

The college houses a state-of-the-art nursing simulation center in the new 90,000 square-foot Nursing and Science Building. Students participate in learning activities in the simulation center to develop competencies in a variety of areas, in addition to gaining clinical experience in local health care settings. The center employs programmable adult, pediatric, and newborn mannequins, as well as maternal mannequins that give birth and the same equipment and supplies found in a clinical setting. TTC's program provides a curriculum that allows students to earn a diploma or an associate degree. The sequential program levels prepare students for the roles of entry-level nurse generalists in a variety of healthcare facilities such as schools, clinics, as well as government and military offices.

Aside from all of the educational resources and low tuition, the college also assists students with their career searches, from resume writing to job search support to interview tips.

Undergraduate Programs: The Associate Degree and Practical Nursing program at Trident Technical College are one of the state’s best programs in the entire state. The graduates of the ADN program are eligible to take their NCLEX-RN examination and work as successful nurses. They can also transition to a BSN program should they wish to further advance their academic and professional career.

#5 Associate Degree in Nursing

Spartanburg Community College

91.66% 3-Year
Pass Rate
Spartanburg Community College
  • pin1
    107 Community College Drive, Spartanburg, SC - 29303
  • tel1
    (864) 592-4500
  • NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.66%
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate

University Information

  • faculty Total Faculty: 124
  • tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,902
  • book Book and Supplies: $9,822
  • receiving aid Percent Received Aid: 83%
  • scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $7,527
  • admitted Percent Admitted: N/A
  • enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
  • graduation rate Graduation Rate: 28%

Spartanburg Community College's nursing school is a public institution in Spartanburg, South Carolina that ranks among the top five nursing colleges in the state and among the best in the country as well.

At SCC, nursing students are taught to focus on improving health outcomes and patient conditions through education, practice, and service. The curriculum teaches the students to be accountable, competent, responsible, and technologically prepared nurses who will be able to provide quality nursing care in a diverse healthcare setting. The clinical practice also allows them to develop as leaders who can advance the nursing practice and function as integral members of the healthcare team. Nursing education at this university is highly affordable and is provided by highly trained healthcare professionals. In addition to that, students are eligible to apply for a plethora of grants, lottery, or scholarships, in addition to part-time employment to fund their education.

Undergraduate Programs: Spartanburg Community College offers Registered Nursing via an Associate level degree which prepares them for their NCLEX-RN examination. Graduates of the program will have a solid foundation for entry into practice at the appropriate level. Acute care hospitals, physician's offices, clinics, long-term care settings, health departments, home health care agencies, and hospice care units are some examples of nursing opportunities.

Additionally, the students can also transfer their ADN credits to any university to complete their bachelor’s degrees.

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Discover information on start dates, credit transfer processes, initial salary expectations, financial aid opportunities, GRE requirements, tuition fees, student-to-faculty ratios, and average post-graduation employment rates.

Nursing Programs Offered by South Carolina Nursing Schools

  • Registered Nursing: 30
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 4
  • CNL: 2
  • Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 1
  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 1
  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 1
  • Adult Nurse Practitioner: 1
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 1
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 1

South Carolina Nursing Schools with the Most Degree Types

Additional South Carolina ADN Programs

ADN Programs in South Carolina

ADN Programs in South Carolina

ADN Financial Aid and Scholarships for South Carolina Nurses

Financial aid presents an essential resource for students pursuing ADN Programs in South Carolina, but what options exist? Typically, aid comes in three forms:

  • Loans – Money borrowed from the federal government or private lenders, which students must repay, usually with interest.
  • Grants – Money awarded based on financial need, which students typically don’t have to repay.
  • Scholarships – Money granted based on various criteria such as academic achievement, community service, or field of study. These funds don’t need to be repaid.

The key to accessing these resources is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By completing this form, students provide the necessary information to determine their eligibility for federal loans and grants. State and institutional aid often use FAFSA data as well. Here’s the link to the free FAFSA application.

South Carolina also offers specific resources to assist students with nursing school expenses. For instance, the South Carolina Nurses Foundation offers scholarships for nursing students in the state.

ADN Scholarships for South Carolina Nurses

  • Palmetto Gold Nurse Scholarship: Available to undergraduate nursing students, this scholarship rewards academic excellence and leadership potential. Award Amount: Varies, Application Deadline Month: March.
  • Mary Ellen Hatfield School of Nursing Scholarship: Offered by the University of South Carolina, this scholarship supports students demonstrating financial need and academic promise. Award Amount: Varies, Application Deadline Month: April.
  • South Carolina League for Nursing Scholarship: This scholarship awards South Carolina residents enrolled in accredited nursing programs. Award Amount: $500, Application Deadline Month: June.
  • Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: Designed to support students committed to work in eligible Critical Shortage Facilities in high need areas. Award Amount: Full tuition plus a monthly stipend, Application Deadline Month: May.
  • South Carolina Nurses Foundation Scholarship: Available to students pursuing nursing education in South Carolina, this scholarship awards based on financial need, academic achievement, and community service. Award Amount: Varies, Application Deadline Month: April.

Pursuing financial aid can make a significant difference in the affordability of a nursing education. Remember to explore all available options and apply early to maximize the financial support received.

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South Carolina Resources for ADNs

Individuals pursuing ADN programs in South Carolina have access to numerous state and organizational resources that can help guide them through their nursing education journey. These resources offer valuable information on nursing programs, educational institutions, and job prospects within the state. Here are some key resources for those seeking an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in South Carolina:

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