Claflin University
Orangeburg, South Carolina 29115-4498
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for psychology
Claflin University is a private institution in Orangeburg with particular strength in psychology and business.
A small campus of 1.7K undergraduates with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
49% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $40,304 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $21,232.
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History It was originally named Claflin College and was founded in 1869 by Alonzo Webster, a minister for the Methodist Episcopal Church (today the United Methodist Church).
- •Claflin College opened its doors on October 27, 1869.
- •In 1870, the Baker Biblical Institute merged with Claflin University.
- •Claflin University is the oldest historically black college or university in South Carolina and touts itself as the first college in the state to welcome all students regardless of race or gender.
- •It was the first Black college to offer architectural drawing courses.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
29.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.8%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$22,049
Programs (50)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
79%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
10
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from SC state average