USCB's Golden Jubilee
Our Story
Partnering: University of South Carolina
State and university leaders began discussing strategies to increase access to higher education in the 1950's. With a history of commitment to higher education dating back to 1795, Beaufort was eager to host a regional campus. In 1959, the Beaufort College building welcomed 57 students enrolled in the University of South Carolina Beaufort, a two year institution providing local access to the USC system.
Growing: Regional campus
Over the next 30 years, USCB developed an eight acre campus on the waterfront in Beaufort’s historic district—constructing two new buildings, renovating an elementary school and purchasing historic properties for offices and an art studio. The university began offering classes on Hilton Head Island in 1985. By 1989, students pursued a few baccalaureate degrees through USC Aiken and USC Columbia cooperative programs.
Expanding: Baccalaureate status
In 1994, International Paper donated 80 acres near Hilton Head Island and Dean Jane Upshaw began a campaign for USCB to earn baccalaureate status. With the support of local citizens, Beaufort County Council, faculty, staff, students, the Beaufort Jasper Higher Education Commission, the Beaufort College Board of Trustees, and many community groups, USCB was approved to seek baccalaureate accreditation in 2002.
Expanding: Comprehensive university
In August 2004, USCB opened as South Carolina's newest four-year university—and students took classes in the first building on the 200 acre Hilton Head Gateway campus.
During the next five years, a science snd technology building, technology infused library, on-campus housing and campus center opened to serve the growing student body. The region's much-needed BS in Nursing was launched in state of the art facilities with exceptional community support. USCB Sand Shark baseball, golf, cross country and track teams debuted, competing in the NAIA Sun Conference.
Over 1650 students now pursue 13 degree programs, 6 pre-professional tracks and an array of minors. And, 1500 senior citizens participate in courses offered by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institution at USCB. USCB's chamber music series celebrated its thirtieth successful season. A strategic initiative to focus the Historic Beaufort campus on the fine arts has been well-received and the BA in Studio Art opens January 2010.
