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COLUMBIA (WACH) -- USC police are investigating a reported sexual assault on the campus early Tuesday morning.

According to an online university crime alert, the assault happened between midnight and 1:00 am. The report says a female was walking in the 1400 block of Blossom Street near East Quad Residence Hall when a suspect approached her, sexually assaulted her, then took her wallet and phone.

The victim didn’t see a weapon but told officers she believed the suspect was armed. Investigators say the woman reported the crime late Tuesday afternoon.

Police say the suspect is described as a black male between 20 and 30-years-old, wearing all black and a hat. 

The case is being investigated by the USC Division of Law Enforcement and Safety with the assistance of SLED.

Police ask anyone with information on the incident to call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.

The university also released these safety tips:

- Travel on major sidewalks along major streets and avoid shortcuts. Well lit and well-traveled routes are best.

- The University has and encourages the use of several available shuttle services for transportation to and around campus such as the Evening Shuttle, Late Night Shuttle, APO, and others. Please go to http://www.sc.edu/vmps/shuttle.html for more information.

- Have a plan before going out. Make sure your friends know not to leave you alone or let you leave anywhere with someone other than the friends you came with. Stay in a group as much as possible.

- The best mode of travel is by vehicle but if you do choose to walk, travel in large groups and never alone. The larger the group of people you are with, the better (four or more is best).

- Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If a place or situation doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Leave.

- If you feel unsafe or see suspicious activity or persons, seek safety in a well-populated area or building and call the police immediately by dialing 911.