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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: Where historic land-grant legacy meets cutting-edge research in a vibrant setting.

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordering the picturesque Lake Hartwell, Clemson University offers a truly unique educational experience. As a public land-grant research university, Clemson is dedicated to combining academic excellence with impactful discovery and community engagement. Renowned for its "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" classification, Clemson provides a dynamic environment for both undergraduate and graduate students to thrive, making it a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive and forward-thinking institution.

The university's rich history began with Thomas Green Clemson, who, influenced by future Governor Benjamin Tillman, bequeathed his estate in 1888 to establish a college focused on scientific agriculture and mechanical arts. Founded in 1889 as Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina, the institution was designed to serve the people of South Carolina, mirroring the mission of what is now Mississippi State University. This foundational commitment to practical education and public service continues to shape Clemson's identity and its diverse academic offerings today.

Academically, Clemson is a powerhouse, home to nine distinct colleges that span a vast array of disciplines. From the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences, which boasts significant enrollment, to specialized institutions like the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business and the new Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, students have access to an impressive breadth of programs. The Graduate School further enhances these opportunities, offering over 100 degree programs, many of which are nationally ranked and foster unique interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates for leadership roles in an evolving world.

With a vibrant student body of nearly 30,000, Clemson fosters a close-knit community feeling despite its large size. The 1,400-acre campus provides ample space for learning, research, and recreation. Prospective students and their families will find an engaging campus culture that balances challenging academics with a supportive environment, all set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

Key Highlights

  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity" by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
  • Founded in 1889 as a public land-grant research university.
  • Boasts an endowment of $1.2 billion, supporting its extensive academic and research initiatives.
  • Serves a diverse student body of 29,545, making it the second-largest university by enrollment in South Carolina.
  • Features a robust academic structure with nine comprehensive colleges, including the new Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine.
  • Offers over 100 graduate degree programs, many nationally ranked, fostering unique interdisciplinary studies.
  • Features a 1,400-acre main campus in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, bordering Lake Hartwell.

Timeline

1838
Thomas Green Clemson, the university's founder, arrives in South Carolina.
1888
Thomas Green Clemson dies, bequeathing his estate to establish a college.
1889
Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina is established.
1955
The university's four schools are transformed into nine colleges.
1962
Lake Hartwell is formed, now bordering the campus.
1964
The institution is renamed Clemson University.
1995
The university's nine colleges are condensed into five.
2016
A major academic reorganization creates seven new colleges.
🏛️
137 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

10 notable schools within Clemson University

🔬

College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences

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

🏫

College of Architecture, Art and Construction

One of Clemson's nine comprehensive academic colleges.

🎭

College of Arts and Humanities

One of Clemson's nine comprehensive academic colleges.

🔬

College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences

One of Clemson's nine comprehensive academic colleges.

💼

Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business

One of Clemson's nine comprehensive academic colleges, with a significant student enrollment.

📚

College of Education (including the Eugene T. Moore School of Education)

One of Clemson's nine comprehensive academic colleges, encompassing the Eugene T. Moore School of Education.

⚙️

College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences

One of Clemson's nine comprehensive academic colleges, with the largest student enrollment.

🔬

College of Science

One of Clemson's nine comprehensive academic colleges.

🏥

Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine

A newly established professional college within Clemson University.

🎓

The Graduate School

Offers over 100 graduate degree programs across 85 disciplines, including highly ranked and unique interdisciplinary options, on various campuses and online.

Leadership

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

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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