Clemson University
Clemson, SC
Quick Facts
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
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.
Find Scholarships at Clemson University
Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.
Start Your Free Search