The counties of Lexington, Richland and Fairfield are well served by the South Carolina educational system. One of the largest two year colleges in the system is the Midlands Technical College, which has a student population of approximately 11,000. The college offers Associate Degrees, Diplomas and Certificate Programs across different departments. Students can gain an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree.
The college operates over six campuses and each one has modern amenities. One of the campuses is located at Fort Jackson and serves military personnel. The libraries are well stocked and there is a bookstore on the Airport Campus and Beltline Campus. In addition to textbooks, the store sells computer supplies, snack foods and college merchandise, such as T-shirts and mugs. Candidates wishing to join Midlands Technical College are asked to sit a placement test, using COMPASS and ASSET tests. This test is used to identify the requirements of the student. Following this, the candidate will meet with an advisor. Some students will be eligible for financial assistance.
Many graduates from the college go on to study at the University of South Carolina - Columbia whilst others gain jobs in their chosen careers. The course departments in Midlands Technical College are Humanities, English, Science, Math and Social and Behavioral Sciences. The curriculum is varied and covers several disciplines. Math courses include Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus and Geometry. The Science curriculum involves Astronomy, Biology, Physics and Chemistry. The Social and Behavioral Sciences department has courses for Geography, Economics, Psychology, Sociology and Political Science.
There is a Continuing Education program at the college, designed to meet the needs of adults, who are seeking to improve their career prospects by learning new skills. The course options are varied and include Healthcare, Law Enforcement, Construction and Computer and Information Technology.
Life on campus is about socializing and making friends as well as gaining qualifications. Some extra curricular activity is also linked to studies. There are several clubs and organizations for students to join at Midlands Technical College. The Entrepreneurship Club is for students and staff with an interest in setting up new businesses. Guest speakers from the local business community are invited to give talks. The Technique! Club is a theatre group that puts on small productions. Open Doors is an organization for students with disabilities. Students can relax in their leisure time in the Student Common rooms, where they can chat, watch cable TV, read a magazine or play board games.