Christo et Doctrinae, or “For Christ and Learning,” is the official motto of the institution right off of Poinsett Highway and a little ways down the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Furman University is a highly recognizable school for students of Travelers Rest and all over the Greenville Area. Its luscious and remarkable campus makes for a beautiful undergraduate experience. Known for high rankings among innovation, undergrad education, and research, no wonder Furman is a high choice for seniors from TRHS. History, rankings, and the liberal arts education are certainly something that many students talk about.
For those new to the college search and to our close and unique universities, seniors, juniors, and sophomores (and maybe some freshmen) might not understand the hype and eagerness of an acceptance letter from Furman. To wear a lanyard or sweatshirt of the institution’s name on it and proudly show it to their families and friends. “What factual evidence makes this school so interesting and why should I spend my time on it?” might be a question pondered in the minds of these students. To understand why it’s so sought-after from TRHS, we can take a quick dive into the history of the Paladins.
The Brief History of Furman and Its Values
Furman University was established in 1826 and named after Richard Furman, a famous Baptist Clergyman. Richard Furman was an influential figure in the early decades of the United States by encouraging educational institutions. Originally Furman University was a men’s academy and a theological institution, but it broke off and became Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. From there, Furman became a university for its faith, volunteering, and social opportunities. 13 national fraternities and sororities possess a chapter on the campus and the largest club on campus, Heller Service Corps, puts members into volunteer positions across 60 nonprofits! Furman is one of the most philanthropic universities in our area, so why not join in on the fun and reward?
Aside from the traditional academic assessment of an applicant, the generous and charitable past and present of the university spreads into an admissions decision. Like many other colleges, they practice a holistic approach, meaning they take into account extracurricular involvement, special talents of the student, and life experience. They value well-rounded and diverse students to make a class that best represents their school.
Rankings and Cost
According to US News & World Report, Furman graduates 74% of its undergraduate students with a bachelor’s degree. The class sizes are smaller compared to other public schools with a ratio of 1 faculty to 9 students. A ranking that US News also shares is that out of all liberal arts schools in the US, Furman ranks #45 in that category. Niche, a popular school review website, also helps share some rankings that Furman places on. Niche reports that it ranks 3rd in the best college for South Carolina and for athletes in our state.
Tuition at Furman University is quite a bit higher than the national average of public in-state tuition. The cost is $59,360 on tuition alone, but there are scholarships and financial aid available. As seen through Niche, the total net price projected for the average payment towards the university is $33,370, which is almost half of the ticket price. Not to mention, the university demonstrates financial aid support to all students accepted. Even though the price of Furman can be quite high, there are many factors that can decrease your payment towards your education.
Q&A with a Furman Admissions Officer
A member of the Blue & Gold staff interviewed our region’s admissions officer Ty Robbins. We asked 4 key questions that we think can be very important in making a decision…
Q: What are some unique traditions the Paladins hold?
A: “There are several traditions related to Furman’s lakes and fountains! One event that every student looks forward to is Last Day of Class (LDOC) in senior year. On the last day of classes, seniors skip their classes and instead jump into the fountains on Milford Mall to enjoy warm weather, food trucks, music, and good company with their peers.”
Q: Are there any misconceptions that prospective students might have about Furman? If so, can you state and clarify these misconceptions for TRHS students that are looking into applying?
A: “This is not a misconception, but a topic that comes up frequently in my conversations with TRHS students: Yes, Furman is close to home! That being said, our campus is primarily residential and is designed for students to stay on campus all four years. We serve as one of largest campuses in the country with a four-year residential requirement for traditional students. Additionally, we keep our students engaged on campus through a variety of clubs and 18 Division I sports programs. While we may not be far from home, we offer Greenville students the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in a residential college community from start to finish.”
Q: What are some great opportunities that future Paladins should take advantage of during their time here at TRHS since we are so close?
A: “We have two events each year that I would strongly recommend to any TRHS student considering Furman. Fall for Furman (November 9, 2024) offers prospective students an opportunity to see Furman’s campus on football game day with an included tour of campus, tailgate experience, and football tickets for the family. Registration is still open and can be found at https://admission.furman.edu/portal/fff. Furman Engaged (April 11, 2025) is not an admissions event, but a day where we celebrate the success of our students. All classes are canceled for the day and students across all academic areas present on their internships, research, and study away opportunities that they completed in the past year. Furman Engaged is open to the public; prospective students are encouraged to come speak with current students on the opportunities available in their coming years. More information for the 2025 date will be published on our website.”
Q: In your opinion, what is the best thing a future Paladin would love about Furman University?
A: “After speaking with numerous students and families, the aspect that often influences a student’s choice to attend Furman University is its community. The faculty, staff, and students who call Furman home are truly kind and exceptional people. While you will not know everyone here by the time you graduate, you will absolutely be met with friendly and passionate learners every day.”
After discussing the questions, Robbins made a closing remark about some necessary information about a decision of going to Furman and checking out the campus for yourself.
“Lastly, and not related to any of your questions, I would highly recommend TRHS students visit campus through an official visit. While you have likely stopped by campus a time or two, our campus visit offers a formal tour of campus as well as opportunities to have lunch with current students, take a class for the day, or meet with our professors.”
Should I Really Consider Furman?
Furman University has proven to be a little more than a home-town university. The institution is just the place for people wanting to stay close and for those wanting independence from what they have been used to, as we saw from the requirement for staying on a beautiful, “picturesque” (as said by US World) campus all four years. The prestige of the school denotes through the rankings of liberal arts colleges and the university’s placement in regards to athletics and overall placement in South Carolina. The humble, philanthropic college is very ready to welcome TRHS students into the campus, will you be a part of the Paladins?