Florence Darlington Technical College

What Is It Known For?

When Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) opened in 1963, just 250 students walked through its doors. Today, more than 3,500 curriculum students and 3,500 noncredit students attend across Florence, Marion, and Darlington Counties.

For over 61 years, FDTC has built a reputation around “education that works” by supporting economic development while helping Pee Dee area residents reach their goals.

Degrees & Certifications

More than 75 programs of study at Florence-Darlington Technical College lead to associate degrees, diplomas, or certificates. You can jump straight into a career after graduation or transfer to select universities in South Carolina.

At FDTC, you can choose from four career paths:

Added opportunities such as Early College Academy, Dual Enrollment, advanced welding training, and stackable credentials, widen access for both traditional and returning students.

Class Schedules

Flexibility plays a large role in daily operations. That’s why classes at FDTC run during daytime and evening hours, creating options for working adults.

Hybrid formats and fully online courses add scheduling freedom, allowing learners to balance school, work, and family commitments. Several programs also include supervised externships or clinical placements, connecting instruction to professional settings.

Is It a Good School?

Yes. Florence-Darlington Technical College holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which authorizes the awarding of associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates.

Acceptance Rate

100% acceptance rate. An open admissions policy guides enrollment to FDTC. Applicants who meet age, academic, and legal presence requirements gain entry, though select programs may apply additional criteria.

How Much Does Tuition Cost?

Tuition rates at Florence-Darlington Technical College vary by residency:

Florence, Darlington, and Marion County: $185/credit hour
Other South Carolina residents: $196/credit hour
Out of State residents: $274/credit hour
International Students: $363/credit hour

Additional fees and program-specific costs apply. Personalized cost estimates are available through FDTC’s net price calculator.

Programs & Courses

Business

Accounting
Bookkeeping
Management
Marketing

Criminal Justice & Law

Criminal Justice Technology

Healthcare

Dental Hygiene
Expanded Duty Dental Assisting
Medical Laboratory Technology
Nursing
Radiologic Technology
Respiratory Care
Surgical Technology

Professional Services

Cosmetology

Skilled Trades

Auto Body Repair
Automotive Technology
Computer Numerical Control Operator
Diesel Technology
Electrician
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Tech
Machinist
Mechatronics Technology
Plumbing
Welding

Technology

Fundamentals of Networking
Web Applications And Programming

Campus Locations

Florence 2715 W. Lucas Street Florence, SC 29502

Reviews

Based on local Google reviews, Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) is recognized as a vital community pillar in the Pee Dee region, known for its strong technical trade programs and affordability, though it faces notable administrative hurdles.

Overall Score: 4.1/5 Stars

Common Praises

Quality Technical and Vocational Training: Reviewers consistently highlight the college as a “great place to get a skilled trade.” Programs in HVAC, Automotive/Diesel Technology, and Radiology are frequently praised for providing practical, job-ready skills.

Accessibility and Affordability: The college is noted for its low tuition and high availability of financial aid. Many students mention that it is a “decent place to get an education” without the heavy debt of a four-year university, often citing it as a life-changing experience.

Welcoming Front-End Staff: Several students have mentioned that the front desk and campus security are “warm and friendly,” often going out of their way to help new students navigate the “very big campus.”

Modern Technology and Resources: Students appreciate the “amazing technology” available for practicing vocational skills and the dedicated resources for career preparation, such as mock interview practice tools.

Strong Community Legacy: For many, the college is a “classic staple and icon” of Florence. Reviews from alumni spanning decades (as far back as 1986) speak to a long-standing history of fostering new friendships and successful careers.

Common Criticisms

Administrative and Financial Aid Delays: A recurring and significant point of frustration is the difficulty in securing financial aid help. Students report funds not arriving in time for books, forcing some to drop classes.

Communication Gaps: Numerous reviewers have expressed anger over the inability to reach staff via phone or email. Descriptors like “Anarchy” have been used by those in the CDL program, where students felt ignored by instructors and staff.

Lack of Inclusivity and Atmosphere: Some students felt the campus was not “very inclusive” or found the general atmosphere to be uninspiring, suggesting that while the education is solid, the campus culture can feel disconnected.

Dual Enrollment Confusion: Local parents have warned about the “hidden” costs of dual enrollment for high schoolers, noting that qualifying for certain programs may not cover all fees as expected.

Momentum

The momentum for Florence-Darlington Technical College is academically strong but administratively strained. In 2025, the college celebrated a record-breaking graduating class of nearly 1,000 students, marking one of its highest graduation totals in history. Recent institutional successes, such as the National Certification of the Testing Center and significant equipment donations for the HVAC and Nursing programs, demonstrate a high level of industry investment. However, persistent complaints regarding “horrible customer service” in the business and financial aid offices suggest that the college’s administrative infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with its academic growth.