Hey all, I'm a high school junior from South Carolina and I'm thinking about the possibility of a military career alongside getting a degree. Are there any recommended military colleges in SC? If anyone has information on what they offer and the entry requirements, it would be much appreciated.
South Carolina actually has two well-regarded military-style colleges:
1. The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina: Based in Charleston, the Citadel offers undergraduate and graduate programs. For undergraduates, the Citadel has five schools: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science and Mathematics. After completing training, almost all graduates from The Citadel commission as officers in branches of the military. Applicants are required to submit high school transcripts or proof of GED possession. Act/SAT scores are optional according to the College's website. The Citadel is a school where all students must participate in ROTC.
2. University of South Carolina (ROTC programs): Military training is not mandatory for all students at this institution. However, the Army, Air Force, and Naval ROTC programs are well-established and leading options for students considering a military career. Admissions requirements will vary by program, but generally, high academic achievement and leadership qualities are valued.
Before making a decision, I would recommend considering the type of college experience you want. Bear in mind that schools like The Citadel have very different campus cultures and daily routines due to their mandatory military training programs.
Also, ensure you have researched the benefits and other implications of having a military-focused education. These colleges provide fantastic preparation for a military career but do limit certain aspects of typical college life. The key is finding a balance that will help you achieve your career aspirations while allowing you to enjoy your college years.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.