Learn About USC
Our Mission
The mission of the University of South Carolina is the education of the state’s citizens through teaching, research, creative activity and community engagement. With a long and distinguished history of service, the University of South Carolina Columbia is the major research institution of the University of South Carolina System and its largest campus. The system serves students from the flagship Columbia campus; three comprehensive universities: Aiken, Beaufort and Upstate; and four Regional Palmetto College campuses: Lancaster, Salkehatchie, Sumter and Union.
Our Creed
By living our creed we provide each member of our community with a genuine sense of inclusion. Originally developed for students, the Carolinian Creed has become a touchstone for all of USC. All students, faculty and staff are encouraged to learn the creed and promote it their day-to-day experiences at USC.
As a Carolinian...
- I will practice personal and academic integrity;
- I will respect the dignity of all persons;
- I will respect the rights and property of others;
- I will discourage bigotry, while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas and opinions;
- I will demonstrate concern for others, their feelings, and their need for the conditions which support their work and development.
Our Path to Excellence
The strategic plan propels the University of South Carolina to future successes. We are proud of our collective accomplishments and use data to track how we are doing as a university.
Our Leadership
To better understand our governance and leadership, and where you fit in, browse comprehensive lists of our offices and divisions and colleges and view our organizational chart.
Our Commitment to Access and Opportunity
We believe that access and opportunity are necessary to achieve academic and institutional excellence. Every student, faculty and staff member not only matters, but their unique perspectives are the core of our strength and our success.
Our History
Explore USC’s past, present and future and dig into our history. Get to know our campus history through virtual and campus visits and self-guided walking tours. Learn how the gamecock — a feisty bird that relishes a scuffle — got the nod as our mascot and the evolution of Cocky.
Our City
Our charming city of Columbia, South Carolina is a place to explore, grow, revel and learn among modern businesses, welcoming communities and centuries-strong tradition. See what makes our hometown such a cool Southern hot spot in Columbia’s Visitors Center.