What's the size of the University of South Carolina?

As I'm researching different schools, I'm trying to get a sense of the campus size of the University of South Carolina. How big is it compared to other universities? Does the size affect the student experience?

The University of South Carolina (USC) in Columbia, as with many state flagship schools, is a fairly large institution. As of 2024, USC has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 38,300 students.

The campus area is also expansive covering about 444 acres, which includes a historic core and several satellite campuses nearby. This provides a balance of open green space and buildings, providing a feeling of spaciousness.

Your experience at a large university like USC can vary. On the plus side, a larger school usually offers a wider range of academic programs, resources, and extracurricular activities. You may also have access to top-tier faculty and research opportunities. Since USC is a large public research institution, opportunities for hands-on work, internships, and collaborations abound.

On the other hand, class sizes can be larger, especially for lower-level courses. However, as courses become more specific, classes tend to decrease in size. There's also the potential to feel overwhelmed, so it can be important to find ways to make a large university feel smaller – joining clubs, participating in sports or group activities, or becoming active in student leadership are all ways students can do this.

The overall impact on student experience is largely determined by individual preference and what you're looking to get from your college years. Some people appreciate the lively atmosphere and diversity that comes with a large student body, while others might prefer a smaller, more intimate college experience. It helps to visit the campus in person or virtually, to get a feel of the school's ambiance, resources, and community.