Columbia, September 19, 2025
News Summary
The University of South Carolina has announced plans to improve campus safety, celebrate record enrollment of over 40,000 students, and integrate artificial intelligence into its academic framework. President Michael Amiridis highlighted new safety protocols following a recent swatting incident and emphasized responsible AI usage with free access to ChatGPT for students. With over 350 degree programs offered, the university continues to address contemporary challenges while fostering an inclusive educational environment.
Columbia: University of South Carolina Addresses Campus Safety, Record Enrollment, and AI Integration in Annual State of the University Address
The University of South Carolina (USC) has unveiled its strategic plans to enhance campus safety, celebrate record enrollment, and advance the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies during the annual State of the University address delivered by President Michael Amiridis. This fall marks a significant milestone for USC, with enrollment surpassing 40,000 students for the first time.
President Amiridis highlighted the university’s commitment to maintaining security and fostering discourse on campus safety following a recent swatting hoax incident. The effective response by campus police and students was particularly praised. As part of ongoing evaluations related to safety measures, the university is set to introduce additional protocols to ensure the wellbeing of its students and staff.
In an exciting move towards embracing modern technology, USC is providing free access to ChatGPT for its community. This initiative is designed to guide students in leveraging AI responsibly, reflecting a broader trend of incorporating AI tools into educational frameworks. Amiridis announced that a new AI module will be added to the required University 101 course, emphasizing proper AI usage and the importance of academic integrity.
USC’s efforts in improving student experience are not limited to AI technology. The administration is also addressing long-standing issues regarding parking availability and permit expansions, which have become increasingly relevant with the growing urbanization challenges faced by university campuses.
Founded in 1801 as South Carolina College, USC has a rich history serving as the first public college funded by state resources. Transitioning into the University of South Carolina in 1906, the institution has since evolved considerably, offering over 350 degree programs across its multiple campuses, including master’s degrees, Ph.D.s, and professional degrees in law and medicine. The main campus library provides access to an extensive collection, holding over 2.6 million volumes.
The USC system currently comprises eight campuses including the main campus in Columbia, four-year branch campuses in Aiken and Spartanburg, and two-year regional campuses throughout South Carolina. Total student enrollment now stands at approximately 36,800 across all campuses, representing a diverse array of academic pursuits from marine biology to archaeology.
Reflecting on the storied past of the university, Amiridis also noted its role as a naval training center during World War II and the establishment of branch campuses in the late 1950s and early 1960s, which further expanded educational access across the state.
As USC aims for future growth, the university remains committed to addressing contemporary challenges in safety and technology while fostering an inclusive and innovative educational environment for all students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University of South Carolina’s current enrollment?
The total enrollment across the USC campuses is approximately 36,800 students, with over 40,000 students enrolled for the first time this fall.
What initiatives are being introduced for campus safety?
USC is implementing additional safety protocols and praised the effective response of campus police and students following a recent swatting hoax incident.
How is USC integrating artificial intelligence?
USC is providing free access to ChatGPT and has introduced a new AI module in the University 101 course to guide students on proper AI usage and academic integrity.
What is the history of the University of South Carolina?
Founded in 1801, USC began as South Carolina College and has transformed into a leading educational institution with a rich legacy, including serving as a naval training center during World War II.
Key Features of the University of South Carolina
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | Approximately 36,800 students with a record of over 40,000 students this fall. |
| Degree Programs | Offers over 350 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, Ph.D.s, and professional degrees. |
| Historical Background | Founded in 1801, transitioned to coeducational in 1893, and became USC in 1906. |
| Library Resources | Main campus library contains over 2.6 million volumes. |
| AI Integration | Free ChatGPT access and new AI modules in courses to guide proper usage. |
| Safety Initiatives | Enhanced protocols and community responses following safety incidents. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- The State: USC Football Update
- Wikipedia: University of South Carolina
- WSPA: Vigil at USC
- Google Search: University of South Carolina
- WYFF4: Gamecocks Coach Incident
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of South Carolina
- WISTV: USC President’s Address
- Google News: University of South Carolina
- Greenville Online: Connor Shaw Collapse
- The State: USC Education Update
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The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
