Founded in 1961, the University of South Carolina Aiken is a comprehensive liberal arts institution committed to active learning through excellence in teaching, faculty and student scholarship, research, creative activities, and service. In this stimulating academic community, USC Aiken challenges students to acquire and develop the skills, knowledge, and values necessary for success in a dynamic global environment.For the 14th time, USC Aiken has been ranked as the #1 public regional college in the South by U.S. News & World Report's guide "America's Best Colleges" and for twenty one consecutive years ranking in the top 3. Nearly 3500 students attend the university, and approximately 500 students graduate each year. USC Aiken provides bachelor's and master's degrees in more than 50 programs of study, while delivering many of the offerings of a large university on a small, friendly campus with intimate class sizes and personal attention. The commitment to continuing partnerships is woven into the fabric of the campus' culture.