The recession is leading Orangeburg’s Southern Methodist College to reduce its tuition.

The college is lowering its tuition for full-time students from $3,400 a semester to $2,400.

According to the Rev. Gary Briden, SMC president, “We did it primarily because we are in a recession and we wanted to help families make it more affordable.

“Part-time students would pay a fraction of the cost.”

To further assist families and to increase the college’s total enrollment, the college has scholarships that are available to students.

“We also have presidential scholarships and work-study scholarships,” Briden said. “For those musically inclined, we have a music ministry team scholarship.”

The Bible College curriculum places an emphasis on ministry, offering a bachelor of arts as well as a one-year Bible certificate.

While the school has offered community-interest classes such as Spanish, this year computer keyboarding will be offered.

On-line courses are available to accommodate students’ work schedules. And scholarships are also accessible for these students.

The school located at 541 Broughton Street has been part of the Orangeburg Community since 1961.

While classes begin on Aug. 19, new students need to be tested by Aug. 18.

“Late-arriving may be accommodated,” Briden said.

For further information, call 803-534-7826.

T&D Correspondent Rendy Boland can be reached with comments or story ideas by phone at 803-535-2222. Discuss this and other stories online at TheTandD.com.

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