University of South Carolina-Aiken

Based in the town of Aiken in the western region of the state, this branch of USC was founded in 1961 and is a four year liberal arts university. The city itself is one of the largest in the central Savannah river area, and the annual steeplechase horse racing attracts 30,000 spectators.

Academic study at USC Aiken is divided between five areas; Sciences & Engineering, Business Administration, Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, Education, and Nursing. General courses of study may include philosophy, languages, religion, history, literature, economics and mathematics. The School of Business Administration provides professional work experience opportunities, and for those wishing to pursue a career in the banking industry the university has an established partnership with Security Federal Bank.

Robert E. Penland Administration Building is home to the university offices, and the departments of Psychology and Mathematics. The Double Knot sculpture by artist Charles Perry symbolises the university's close ties with the local community, and can be found in the Penland building’s open courtyard.

The Study Abroad programme at USC Aiken has been a huge success since its inception in 1999, and past destinations for students include Prague, London, and Berlin. There is also a student exchange programme with the IÉSEG School of Management in Lille, France.

Athletics teams at USC Aiken are known as the Pacers, and compete in the NCAA Division II. There are five men’s sports programmes and six women’s, as well as spirit squads of cheerleading and dance. The Roberto Hernandez Stadium host home baseball games at USC Aiken, and is named for the MLB player and university alumni.

As well as home sporting events, the Convocation Centre at the university is a regular host of guest speakers and concerts.