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Clemson University

Clemson, SC

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

1889
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
22,778
Total Students
24,060
Undergrad
5,485
Graduate
$1.2B
Endowment
(2025)
$16K
Tuition (In-State)
$39K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
38%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Graduation Rate
6-year
93%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Robert H. Jones (interim)

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Clemson University

Clemson: Cultivating innovation and community amidst stunning South Carolina scenery.

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordering the serene Lake Hartwell, Clemson University offers a vibrant and engaging experience for its nearly 30,000 students. As a public land-grant research university with an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" classification, Clemson is known for its rigorous academics, innovative research, and a strong sense of community. Its expansive 1,400-acre campus provides an idyllic backdrop for learning and discovery, fostering an environment where students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Clemson's rich history dates back to 1889, founded through the visionary bequest of Thomas Green Clemson. Influenced by his father-in-law, John C. Calhoun, and future Governor Benjamin Tillman, Clemson dedicated his estate to establishing an institution focused on scientific agriculture and mechanical arts. This foundational mission as a land-grant college shaped its early identity, committing the university to serving the people of South Carolina through practical education and groundbreaking research, a legacy that continues to drive its purpose today.

Today, Clemson University boasts a diverse academic portfolio across its nine colleges. From the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences, which upholds its land-grant roots with a focus on sustainability and biomedical sciences, to the cutting-edge College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences, students have access to a wide array of programs. The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business and the new Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine further exemplify Clemson's commitment to preparing students for diverse professional paths. The Graduate School alone offers over 100 degree programs, many of which are nationally ranked, fostering unique interdisciplinary opportunities for advanced study.

With a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, Clemson ensures personalized attention within a large university setting. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, extensive research opportunities, and a spirited campus culture, including active NCAA Division I FBS – ACC athletics. Clemson University provides an environment where students are challenged to excel, engage in impactful research, and become part of a proud and supportive community, all while enjoying the natural beauty of its South Carolina home.

Key Highlights

  • Designated an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," affirming its commitment to groundbreaking research.
  • Enrolls nearly 30,000 students, including 24,060 undergraduates, making it the second-largest university by enrollment in South Carolina (Fall 2025).
  • Features a picturesque 1,400-acre campus nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, bordering Lake Hartwell.
  • Boasts an impressive endowment of $1.2 billion, supporting academic and research initiatives.
  • Maintains a personalized student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1.
  • Offers a broad spectrum of studies through its nine distinct academic colleges, including a new College of Veterinary Medicine.
  • The Graduate School provides over 100 degree programs in 85 disciplines, with many nationally ranked and unique interdisciplinary options.

Timeline

1838
Thomas Green Clemson arrives in South Carolina and marries Anna Maria Calhoun.
1888
Thomas Green Clemson passes away, bequeathing his estate to establish an agricultural and mechanical college.
1889
Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina is established.
1955
Academic structure transforms from four schools into nine colleges.
1962
Lake Hartwell is formed, now bordering the university campus.
1964
The institution is renamed Clemson University.
2014
The Eugene T. Moore School of Education becomes its own college.
2016
Academic reorganization creates seven new colleges, streamlining the university's structure.
2025
The university's current structure of nine academic colleges, including the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, is active.
🏛️
137 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

9 notable schools within Clemson University

🔬

College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences

Supports Clemson's land-grant mission through education, research, and service, focusing on sustainability, food systems, and biomedical sciences.

🏫

College of Architecture, Art and Construction

Offers programs across design, visual arts, and the built environment.

🎭

College of Arts and Humanities

Explores diverse fields in the humanities and creative arts.

🔬

College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences

Focuses on understanding human behavior, social structures, and public health.

📚

College of Education

Includes the Eugene T. Moore School of Education, dedicated to preparing future educators and advancing educational research.

⚙️

College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences

Drives innovation in engineering disciplines, computer science, and applied sciences.

🔬

College of Science

Provides rigorous training and research opportunities in core scientific disciplines.

💼

Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business

Prepares future business leaders with comprehensive programs in various business fields.

🏥

Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine

A new professional school dedicated to advancing veterinary medicine and animal health.

Leadership

Robert H. Jones (interim)
President
J. Cole Smith
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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