Spartanburg families have two respected four-year colleges right in their backyard. Wofford College and Converse University offer distinct educational experiences, price points, and campus cultures. Here is what local parents and students should know about both schools.
Wofford College
Founded in 1854, Wofford is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The campus occupies 175 acres in the heart of Spartanburg, within walking distance of downtown Morgan Square.
Academics: Wofford offers more than 70 areas of study across the humanities, sciences, and professional disciplines. Popular majors include Business Economics, Biology, and Finance. The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 11 to 1, enabling close mentorship. The college emphasizes undergraduate research, study abroad, and community engagement.
Admissions: Wofford accepts approximately 52 to 60 percent of applicants. The median SAT score for admitted students is around 1,280 and the median ACT is 28. Wofford charges no application fee, making it easy to apply without financial risk.
Cost: Published tuition runs approximately $51,500 to $54,000 per year. The average financial aid package is roughly $36,000, bringing the typical net price closer to $30,000 to $31,000 annually. Average earnings for Wofford graduates ten years out is approximately $59,800 per year.
Athletics: The Wofford Terriers compete in NCAA Division I through the Southern Conference (SoCon). Football is a campus centerpiece, and the Terriers are a consistent SoCon contender. For 2026, the football team plays home games against Gardner-Webb, The Citadel, Tennessee Tech, VMI, and East Tennessee State.
Outcomes: Wofford graduates at a rate of 83 percent within six years, which is 25 percentage points above the national median — a strong signal of student support and satisfaction.
Converse University
Converse was founded in 1889 and has transitioned from an all-women college to coeducational enrollment in recent years. The campus sits on East Main Street adjacent to the Converse Heights historic neighborhood.
Academics: Converse offers programs in education, business, the arts, sciences, and nursing. The School of the Arts draws regional recognition for music, art, and dance programs. Popular undergraduate majors include Biology, Business, and Child Development.
Admissions: With an acceptance rate of approximately 68 percent, Converse is more accessible than Wofford. The university enrolls around 852 undergraduates, ensuring a small, personalized learning environment.
Cost: The net price is approximately $19,000 per year after aid for qualifying students. Average total aid awarded is around $18,575 annually, making Converse one of the more affordable private options in the Upstate.
Campus Life: Small enrollment means significant individual faculty attention. Proximity to downtown Spartanburg gives students access to restaurants, entertainment, and local internship opportunities.
Making the Choice
Both schools are within easy driving distance of virtually any Spartanburg County address, making commuter attendance feasible for budget-conscious local families. Students seeking a classic liberal arts education with Division I sports should look closely at Wofford. Those who prefer a smaller, more intimate setting with strong arts programs may find Converse the better fit. Both schools accept the FAFSA for federal financial aid — submit early to maximize your eligibility.