The University of South Carolina (USC) is a prominent public research university located in Columbia, South Carolina, United States. Founded in 1801 as South Carolina College, it serves as the flagship institution of the University of South Carolina System and is the largest university in the state by enrollment, with over 35,000 students across its campuses. The main campus spans more than 359 acres in downtown Columbia, situated near the South Carolina State House, fostering a vibrant academic environment in the heart of the capital city. USC is classified as an 'R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity' institution by the Carnegie Classification, underscoring its commitment to cutting-edge research and scholarship. Notable collections include the world's largest Ernest Hemingway archive and the most extensive Robert Burns and Scottish literature materials outside of Scotland, housed in its libraries.

Historically, USC has played a significant role in the educational landscape of the South, evolving from its origins as a college for men in the antebellum era, where student organizations like the Clariosophic and Euphradian Societies were central to campus life. During the Civil War, students formed military units, reflecting the institution's ties to regional history, though faculty initially opposed their enlistment. The university has undergone expansions and transformations, including becoming co-educational and integrating in the 20th century, and it achieved accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1917. Today, USC offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including law and medicine, and is known for its contributions to regional development, global perspectives, and partnerships that enhance higher education in South Carolina.

As a key player in academic and research networks, USC influences policy, economy, and culture in the Southeast United States. It is the alma mater to many state political leaders and has produced notable alumni, such as Senator Lindsey Graham, who earned his BA in psychology in 1977 and JD in 1981, highlighting its role in shaping influential figures. The university continues to prioritize innovation, with initiatives in health sciences, engineering, and business, while maintaining a commitment to public service and community engagement.