Best Online Community Colleges in South Carolina
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Attending an online community college in South Carolina can offer several benefits to students seeking an associate degree. Many schools also partner with four-year universities in South Carolina so students can easily transfer credits to pursue a bachelor's degree.
Our list of the best online community colleges in South Carolina is ranked by Salary Score and online enrollments to emphasize career earnings and popularity. View our methodology for more details about our list, or learn about OnlineU.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team ranks community colleges in each featured state using Salary Score, our proprietary measure of how graduates' earnings compare with those of students who earned the same associate degrees elsewhere. Using U.S. Department of Education earnings data, we compare each college's associate graduates with graduates of the same degrees nationwide, providing a degree-level perspective of financial outcomes rather than relying on institution-wide earnings.
When there isn't enough data to calculate a reliable Salary Score, we rank eligible schools by online enrollment, highlighting colleges with larger, more established distance-learning communities. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
Best Online Community Colleges in South Carolina
| Rank | School | Salary Score | Online Enrollment | Recommendation | Annual Tuition | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College | B+ | 728 | N/A | $7,710 | $62,486 | |
| Tri-County Technical College | B- | 727 | N/A | $7,938 | $53,058 | |
| Technical College of the Lowcountry | B- | 883 | 100% | $7,590 | $47,895 | |
| ECPI University Online | N/A | 6,006 | 46% | $18,484 | $48,866 | |
| Trident Technical College | N/A | 5,202 | 36% | $6,656 | $48,251 | |
| Horry-Georgetown Technical College | N/A | 3,932 | 100% | $6,510 | $43,602 | |
| Midlands Technical College | N/A | 3,125 | 100% | $7,650 | $46,556 | |
| Piedmont Technical College | N/A | 2,350 | 100% | $6,867 | $45,495 | |
| Spartanburg Community College | N/A | 1,599 | N/A | $7,710 | $50,097 |
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College (OCTC) provides online associate degrees and certificates for remote students. Some of the available degrees include programs in administrative office technology, criminal justice, business administration, and computer technology. There are also general degrees, like the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science, which help satisfy prerequisite requirements for students who want to transfer credits into a bachelor’s program in the future.
Why we like them: More than half of OCTC’s enrollees identify as Black, which allows the college to host STEM-related summer camps for younger learners to encourage them to enroll in college. OCTC also receives other grants to help current students stay in school if they’re in danger of dropping out for reasons related to finances or outside responsibilities. These grants are on top of several endowed scholarships that may potentially help online students reduce their college costs.
- Online Enrollment: 728 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $7,710
- Out-of-State Tuition: $10,410
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $62,486
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Tri-County Technical College (TCTC) offers 28 fully online programs in a variety of subjects — including early childhood development, criminal justice, and office administration. Some programs include transfer agreements that allow you to use your associate degrees more easily to pursue a bachelor's program. Others, like the Cisco Certified Networking Associate Certificate, can help you quickly seek employment.
Why we like them: If you’re not looking to enroll in a degree program, TCTC offers online career training programs. The school partners with Ed2go to provide open enrollment programs to help you obtain the necessary skills for your desired profession. Some of the most popular programs include chartered tax professional, certified freight broker, and medical billing and coding.
- Online Enrollment: 727 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $7,938
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,918
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $53,058
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
The Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) offers 10 online associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas you can enroll in. Examples include associate degrees in administrative office technology, computer technology, and criminal justice. Some of the certificate programs include medical office assistant and criminal justice. TCL also has over 100 individual online courses you can pursue as well.
Why we like them: If you’re not trying to break the bank for online education, consider attending TCL. TCL offers some of the most affordable online tuition and fees in South Carolina. In addition, you may be eligible for the S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance and other federal financial assistance programs. We know that affordability is a determining factor when it comes to choosing an online program, so we think TCL may be a suitable choice for low-cost online education.
1 Student Review for Associate Degrees
This school really does put the time and effort into helping students with their classes and help in any way possible. I think this is possibly the best education that I have gotten since coming out of high school. Anyone thinking about going to TCL really... Read More
- Online Enrollment: 883 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $7,590
- Out-of-State Tuition: $14,220
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $47,895
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
ECPI University Online (ECPI) features a wide range of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees completely online. Associate degree learners can choose from software development, mechanical engineering technology, electronic engineering technology, mechatronics, and cyber and information security technology programs. ECPI’s bachelor’s degrees include majors in nursing, healthcare administration, business management, cloud computing, and many more.
Why we like them: ECPI designs programs for working adults and includes flexible options. For example, you can choose a regular track if you want to aim for a traditional two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree. However, the school also provides accelerated pathways by letting you take more courses during each five-week term. It’s nice that ECPI is upfront about the challenge of earning a degree while working full-time instead of overselling the ease of online learning.
25 Student Reviews for Associate Degrees
Ecpi University in Charleston, South Carolina, is a great school. I am in the LPN program and yes people complain about money thats being put into the program, but so far to me its worth it. The instructors are great and the faculty is as well. When you... Read More
When I first started looking into nursing schools to become an RN, I came across many options. I ultimately chose ECPI because of its accelerated program. I’ll admit, I was nervous at first—some of the reviews I read were negative, and I wondered if it... Read More
From the moment I walked through the doors, my doubts began to fade. The front desk manager was one of the kindest and most welcoming people I’ve ever met. She encouraged everyone during the entrance exam process and made the experience feel supportive and uplifting.
The classes are definitely rigorous—this is an accelerated program, after all—but the instructors are extremely knowledgeable and always willing to help. Plus, ECPI offers free tutoring for students who need extra support, which is a huge bonus.
I’m truly grateful for ECPI and the opportunity it offers through its fast-track nursing program. I highly recommend it to anyone serious about becoming a nurse.
This school rocks. The professors are amazing as well as the administration. I can't wait to walk across the stage in June. The professors and financial staff are so supportive and will help you in anyway they can. You all should definitely consider ECPI... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews of ECPI University Online are sharply divided, but they trend negative because low-rated accounts frequently cite poor value, weak administration, and uneven career outcomes. Dissatisfied reviewers describe rushed five-week courses, inconsistent grading and rule changes, delayed transcripts or diplomas, credit-transfer problems, and financial aid confusion that left them feeling trapped by debt. Several also question employer perception and say career services offered little beyond resume or profile help. Positive reviewers praise responsive advisors, supportive instructors, flexible scheduling, and accelerated pacing that helped working adults and military-affiliated learners finish quickly. The strongest endorsements highlight hands-on learning, tutoring, externships, and promotions or jobs gained soon after completion.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 6,006 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $18,484
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $48,866
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 42%
- Retention Rate: 56%
- Institution Type: For-Profit
Trident Technical College (TTC) offers a handful of fully online degree options you can pursue. These include four online associate degrees in business technology, criminal justice, homeland security, and hospitality and tourism management. If you plan to complete much of your general education courses at a two-year school before enrolling in a bachelor's program at a four-year school, you may also be interested in TTC's associate degree transfer program.
Why we like them: TTC is a military-friendly institution. This means that the community college supports active duty personnel, veterans, and their spouses and children through various programs and resources. These students can obtain tuition assistance, counseling, disability services, tutoring, a student resource center, an employment center, and scholarships. We appreciate that TTC strives to ensure military students and their families get the support they need for distance education.
4 Student Reviews for Associate Degrees
This school has both young and older attendants. It is very affordable at just two hundred dollars per credit hour if you're local. If you're from a little farther away then it's slightly more per credit. I like that this campus has night/evening classes... Read More
I have to say that Trident has definitely improved over the years. This is my second time attending the college first in 2010 and then in 2019. The first time the staff was not informative but the second time around I was easily able to find the answer... Read More
I attended this technical college while still in high school. Because of this, I participated in very condensed courses. They were 7-9 week classes, so I always had to make sure I kept up with all of my assignments, or otherwise I would very quickly fall... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Trident Technical College as highly inconsistent. You repeatedly praise affordability, convenient satellite locations, flexible evening and hybrid options, and some instructors and advisers who are supportive, responsive, and genuinely invested in helping you succeed. Several reviews also note strong academic rigor and say the coursework can prepare you well when teaching is effective. The dominant complaints focus on poor administration, especially financial aid, slow communication, frequent adviser changes, rude staff interactions, outdated materials, and online courses that feel self-taught. Many reviewers say the compressed seven-week format is overwhelming, hurts retention, and can make exams feel disconnected from instruction.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 5,202 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $6,656
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,359
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $48,251
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) offers fully online and hybrid programs that are flexible to meet the needs of working students. There are 16 online programs and classes, two of which are delivered in a hybrid format with on-campus requirements. Examples of 100% online programs include an Associate of Applied Science in Teacher Education and an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services.
Why we like them: HGTC makes it easy for you to transfer to a four-year university. As a member of the SC Technical College System, HGTC has transfer agreements with a number of universities around the state, including Clemson University and South Carolina State University. In addition, the community college has a host of online student support services. A few of the online resources include advising, disability services, career services, an online library, tutoring, and more.
- Online Enrollment: 3,932 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $6,510
- Out-of-State Tuition: $10,710
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $43,602
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Midlands Technical College (MTC) has one associate degree and several certificates that students can complete online. The Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Technology has fully asynchronous online coursework except for one biology class with live class meetings that students can attend remotely. Certificate students can also study online for a credential in supervising, medical coding and billing, criminal justice, or accounting and payroll.
Why we like them: MTC shows its dedication to the entire education pipeline by offering early-start courses to over 1,100 local high school students each year and helping a large segment of graduates transfer to four-year colleges. But the school is also popular with adult learners, with an average student age of 25. Another reason we like them is because MTC is a diverse online college, where more than half of the students hail from historically underrepresented backgrounds. This enriches classroom discussions, broadens understanding of course materials, and encourages critical thinking by exposing students to different viewpoints.
1 Student Review for Associate Degrees
I was accepted and enrolled at a small college, when my father found out he was transfering jobs down south. I also had a brother stationed in Kings Bay Navel Base. Midlands Technical College Admissions Department was wonderful at getting me enrolled... Read More
- Online Enrollment: 3,125 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $7,650
- Out-of-State Tuition: $18,360
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $46,556
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 49%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Piedmont Technical College (PTC) has 150 online individual courses, seven complete programs, and additional hybrid courses that require occasional campus visits. For the 100% online degree programs, PTC features six associate degrees and one certificate. There are two general degrees in an Associate in Science and Associate in Arts (transfer degrees), three associate degrees online in administrative office, and an Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration. You can also pursue an online office technician certification.
Why we like them: PTC facilitates online learning on the learning management system D2L Brightspace. With D2L Brightspace, you can access courses 24/7, contact instructors, and connect with classmates through discussion boards. If you’re new to online learning, PTC encourages you to complete the self-paced training on D2L Brightspace. This allows you to navigate the platform comfortably, move at your own pace, and improve your digital literacy skills.
1 Student Review for Associate Degrees
Outstanding college if more people went here before the 4 year college they might do better. Love the teachers and campus. I learned a lot and now at Clemson and was ready for college-not like some friends that flunked out of Clemson. I would recommend... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Piedmont Technical College as a strong starting point for practical, career-focused education, with students highlighting supportive teachers, a welcoming campus, and a diverse learning environment. Reviewers say they gained substantial hands-on knowledge, clearer awareness of career options, and confidence in their academic preparation. One notable theme is value: students felt the college offered an effective, lower-risk pathway before transferring, helping them build skills and readiness that some peers at larger universities lacked. Criticism is minimal in these reviews, though the emphasis on transfer preparation suggests the college is especially appreciated as a foundation-building option rather than a traditional residential experience.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 2,350 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $6,867
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,540
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $45,495
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Spartanburg Community College’s (SCCS) online learning department features flexible associate degree and certificate programs you can apply to. SCCS offers associate degree programs in management and accounting. In addition, you can choose from seven online certification programs in topics like accounting specialist, administrative support specialist, small business startup/entrepreneurship, logistics, criminal justice, and data analytics.
Why we like them: SCCS offers an online Associate of Arts. This degree is a university transfer degree program, which means that the curriculum is set up so that you can easily transfer to a four-year university. There’s a variety of pathways available, such as pre-professional healthcare, education, horticulture and agriculture, criminal justice, and arts and sciences. We appreciate that SCCS sets students up for success through its university transfer degree.
- Online Enrollment: 1,599 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $7,710
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,690
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $50,097
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit