Florence-Darlington Technical College: Affordable Tuition and Diverse Programs

Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) offers a range of tuition programs designed to provide accessible and affordable higher education. Located at 2715 W. Lucas Street, Florence, SC, FDTC is committed to offering a world-class learning environment with low-cost tuition and various financial aid options. Whether you are a first-time student or returning to education, FDTC provides opportunities for growth and career advancement.

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid

Understanding the cost of attendance (COA) is crucial for prospective students. FDTC's COA budget includes estimates for both direct costs (tuition and fees) and indirect costs (transportation, books, and personal expenses). The COA budget also sets the limit for the total amount of financial aid a student can receive for the academic year.

Components of the COA Budget

Direct Costs: These include expenses such as tuition and mandatory fees.
Indirect Costs: These encompass expenses like transportation, textbooks, and personal or miscellaneous items.

It is important to note that actual costs may vary based on individual choices, such as housing options and personal spending habits. Students seeking an increase in their COA budget due to specific circumstances can contact the Financial Aid Office.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Eighty-four percent of undergraduates at Florence-Darlington Technical College receive grant or scholarship aid, with the average award being $7,442. Financial aid can come in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study jobs. Most colleges determine financial need based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Important Dates for Financial Aid:

Application Due: July 31 (last day to apply for financial aid)

Tuition and Fees Structure

Tuition at FDTC is charged per credit hour for all programs and courses, as established by the South Carolina State Board for Technical and Comprehensive Education. All tuition fees must be paid or charged to financial aid, a sponsor, a scholarship, or another source before attending class.

Payment Responsibility

Tuition, fees, and bookstore charges are the responsibility of the student. All tuition must be paid by the published due date each term. Failure to meet payment deadlines may result in the student's record being frozen, preventing further activity. After three bills, unpaid accounts may be placed with the SC Department of Revenue for collection.

Proctoring and Auditing Fees

Florence-Darlington Technical College assesses a proctoring fee only for individuals affiliated with external colleges or organizations. The fees for auditing a course (enrolling without receiving a grade or credit) are the same as taking the course for credit.

Continuing Education Fees

A minimum of 50 cents per contact hour is charged for any continuing education student.

Tuition Tax Credit

The South Carolina General Assembly offers an income tax credit for tuition paid to South Carolina colleges and universities. To claim this credit, students must file Form SC 1040 and complete Form I-319 (Tuition Tax Credit), which is included with all state individual income tax booklets.

Tuition Costs

FDTC offers competitive tuition rates. For the 2020-2021 academic year, the in-district tuition and fees were $4,606, in-state tuition and fees were $4,870, and out-of-state tuition and fees were $6,742. It is important to consult the college's website or financial aid office for the most current tuition rates.

Academic Programs and Student Life

Florence-Darlington Technical College offers degrees and certificates in 34 different fields. Popular programs include Liberal Arts and Sciences, Registered Nursing, and Business Administration and Management.

General Information

Academic Calendar: Semester-based
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Highest Degree Offered: Associate Degree
Admissions Policy: Open admissions

Student Life

FDTC provides various campus services, including employment services, academic/career counseling, placement services for completers, and on-campus day care for students' children. The college also offers credit for life experiences.

Student Success Stories

Florence-Darlington Technical College has a number of student success stories that reflect the diversity of students the college serves.

Nastasia Guy: Transitioned from the CNA program to Human Services, balancing work and school to pursue her passion in psychology.
Ariel Myers: Received her GED at age 28 and graduated with her first degree.
Micah Yates: A student in the Dental Hygiene program and a former player on the FDTC team that went to the JUCO World Series.
Burns Bailey: Graduated from the Machine Tool Tech Program after exploring different career paths.
Madison Shake: A high school student attending college at FDTC through the dual-enrollment program, taking welding classes.
Priscilla Atkinson: A retired veteran pursuing her dream of owning a daycare.
Stefanie Stewart: Graduated from high school and college in 2023 through FDTC’s Early College Academy.
Frank White Jr.: A former commercial truck driver who discovered his passion in welding.
Olivia Voltolina: An FDTC Stinger who found the college through softball, juggling a full class schedule while playing softball.

Specialized Programs

FDTC offers a variety of specialized programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for specific industries.

Accounting

Graduates with an Accounting degree receive 66 credit hours of coursework, demonstrating core skills in accounting, business, business ethics, managing spreadsheets, data analytics, business law, and computer applications.

Auto Body Repair

This program trains students in the use of equipment and materials used in the auto body repair industry to become auto body technicians. The study of unibody, structure repair, sheet metal repair, welding, spot repair, estimating, and refinishing are covered.

Automotive Technology

This program trains automotive technicians to diagnose, service, and repair automobiles and light trucks. Many individuals seeking training in Automotive Technology expect to work as Automotive Service Technicians.

Diesel Technology

This program trains technicians to diagnose, service, and maintain both gasoline and diesel vehicles. Employment opportunities are available in the automotive or trucking industries and their related fields.

Basic Automotive

This program provides basic training for persons interested in working in the automotive field. The curriculum relies on a "hands-on" and lecture approach to learning, and students will spend a large portion of their time working in a practical setting.

Net Price and Financial Aid Details

Understanding the net price, which is a college’s cost of attendance minus the grants and scholarships received, is crucial for budgeting. The net price varies based on individual circumstances and the college’s financial aid policies.

Average Net Price

The average net price per year is $1,598. This figure can be more accurately estimated using the college’s Net Price Calculator.

Sticker Price

In-State Tuition: $5,550 per year
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,576 per year
Books and Supplies: $1,248 per year

Financial Aid

Financial aid packages can include grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study jobs. The amount and type of aid depend on the student’s financial need, as determined by the FAFSA.

Transfer Agreements

FDTC has articulation agreements with four-year universities across the state, facilitating seamless transfer pathways for students to pursue bachelor's degrees after completing their education with the college.

Community College Benefits

Community colleges like FDTC offer several benefits:

Cost-Effective Tuition Fees: Alleviating the financial strain on students.
Individualized Attention: Support services such as tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.
Smaller Class Sizes: Providing a supportive learning environment where students can engage more closely with instructors.

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