Citadel Military College of South Carolina

The Citadel, Military College of South Carolina, stands as a beacon of leadership development, rooted in the principles of Honor, Duty, and Respect. Established in 1842 in Charleston, it is renowned as the third oldest public senior military college in the United States. Prospective students seeking a transformative experience will find a rigorous environment dedicated to molding principled leaders, with a significant commitment to service — approximately one-third of its graduates annually commission into the armed forces across all branches.

Academically, The Citadel offers a robust curriculum across six distinct schools: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science, and Mathematics. Cadets pursue bachelor's degrees in 38 major programs and 55 minors, all while participating in mandatory ROTC. For those interested in a non-military path, the Citadel Graduate College provides 12 undergraduate and 26 graduate degrees, including flexible evening and online programs, catering to a diverse student body that complements the esteemed Corps of Cadets.

The college's rich history is intertwined with the fabric of American military heritage. From its cadets firing the first shots of the Civil War to its profound contributions in World War II, The Citadel has earned its place as one of only five American colleges to receive battle streamers for student wartime service. While initially founded to educate young men and protect state arsenals, The Citadel has continually evolved, embracing diversity and opening its doors to women and minorities, celebrating milestones like the first female Corps of Cadets graduate in 1999 and the first female Regimental Commander in 2018.

Life at The Citadel is defined by its unique Corps of Cadets experience, which comprises over half of the student body. Cadets immerse themselves in a distinctive class system, traditions, and a specialized lexicon, fostering both academic excellence and unparalleled leadership skills. Beyond the Corps, the vibrant campus life includes NCAA Division I athletics, where the Bulldogs compete fiercely, and a strong alumni network known as 'the Long Gray Line,' connecting graduates who have gone on to distinguished careers in military service, public office, and beyond.