🥇
$11,460
Tuition/yr
86%
Grad rate
73.6
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best artificial intelligence degree programs: Coastal Carolina, Wofford College, Charleston Southern
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $8,356 to $57,902/year
Coastal Carolina offers the most affordable option at $11,460/yr
Artificial Intelligence degree programs available: 3 master's, 2 doctoral in South Carolina
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online artificial intelligence degree programs in South Carolina
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, Bosch, Boeing
Tech hubs in Charleston and Columbia
Hakia Research 2026
Artificial Intelligence degree programs near 40+ cities across South Carolina
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked South Carolina Artificial Intelligence programs
We rank 14 accredited artificial intelligence programs in South Carolina using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in South Carolina Worth It?
Answer
$95,670
Yes. The best artificial intelligence degree programs in South Carolina deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $95,670 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $24,722/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Artificial Intelligence Degree Rankings in South Carolina
Compare the top-ranked Artificial Intelligence programs in South Carolina by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Programs in South Carolina
9
Programs ranked
$30,465
Avg tuition/yr
88%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with 9 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 1 public and 8 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Coastal Carolina, Wofford College, Charleston Southern, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from South Carolina artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of $81,320, 17% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Charleston, Columbia, Greenville metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, Bosch.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $11,460 to $57,902 annually, with an average of $30,465/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 89%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to South Carolina's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in South Carolina, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Show all 9 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Bob Jones University | Greenville, SC | Private | $19,756 | — | 58.1 |
| #7 | Presbyterian College | Clinton, SC | Private | $40,200 | — | 55.2 |
| #8 | Claflin University | Orangeburg, SC | Private | $16,476 | — | 51.8 |
| #9 | Coker University | Hartsville, SC | Private | $30,864 | — | 45.2 |
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Programs in South Carolina
3
Programs ranked
$11,054
Avg tuition/yr
75%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina offers 3 master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of South Carolina-Columbia, College of Charleston, Citadel Military College ..., combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in South Carolina earn a median salary of $95,670, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Charleston, Columbia, Greenville creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, Bosch actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $11,054/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among South Carolina's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SCPublic
Inside Carolina Episode 14: Campus Village opens; Gamecock football returns$12,288
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad rate
75.6
Hakia Score
🥈
$12,518
Tuition/yr
70%
Grad rate
53.2
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Programs in South Carolina
2
Programs ranked
$13,163
Avg tuition/yr
81%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina is home to 2 doctoral programs in artificial intelligence, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Clemson, U of South Carolina-Columbia are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with South Carolina PhD holders earning a median of $119,588, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Charleston, Columbia, Greenville region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, Bosch.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across South Carolina programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing artificial intelligence degrees in South Carolina, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SCPublic
$12,288
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad rate
65.0
Hakia Score
Artificial Intelligence Degree Costs & Tuition in South Carolina
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $24,722/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $61,805/year |
| Community college tuition | $6,181/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $148,332 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $37,082 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Artificial Intelligence Students in South Carolina
State Aid Programs
South Carolina residents pursuing artificial intelligence degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways. The primary state-sponsored opportunity is the LIFE Scholarship, a merit-based award offering up to $5,000 per year for qualifying South Carolina residents. This scholarship significantly reduces the burden of tuition costs and can be combined with federal financial aid to create a comprehensive funding strategy. All students should begin their financial aid journey by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through Federal Student Aid, which opens the door to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities regardless of state residency.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, individual institutions offering artificial intelligence programs provide institutional scholarships and assistantships. The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education oversees state financial aid programs and can connect students with additional resources. Students should research aid packages at specific schools, particularly those ranked highest for affordability like most affordable AI programs, to compare total out-of-pocket costs. Many schools offer graduate assistantships for master's and doctoral students, which can include tuition remission and monthly stipends, making advanced degrees more accessible. For detailed information about federal aid options, visit Federal Student Aid to explore grants, loans, and income-driven repayment plans tailored to your circumstances.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator, South Carolina
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree in South Carolina. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Artificial Intelligence Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in South Carolina metro areas
Charleston$105K
Columbia$100K
Greenville$96K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Charleston | $105K |
| Columbia | $100K |
| Greenville | $96K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Artificial Intelligence Graduates in South Carolina
Find artificial intelligence jobs in South Carolina. These major employers across South Carolina metro areas are actively hiring artificial intelligence degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Charleston
SCBooz Allen Hamilton
consulting
Blackbaud
tech
BoomTown
tech
Benefitfocus
healthtech
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Columbia
SCBlueCross BlueShield of SC
healthcare
University of South Carolina
education
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Greenville
SCBMW Manufacturing
manufacturing
GE Power
energy
Michelin
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Artificial Intelligence Degrees in South Carolina
State Transfer System
South Carolina's transfer system is designed to help student mobility between two-year and four-year institutions. The SC Transfer and Articulation Center (SCTRAC) maps transfer pathways and ensures credits earned at community colleges are recognized by universities statewide. With 25 two-year institutions and 41 four-year institutions in South Carolina, students have multiple entry points into AI education. Many students begin their AI studies at community colleges through general education and foundational computer science coursework, then transfer to universities like Clemson or the University of South Carolina-Columbia to complete AI-specific bachelor's degrees. This pathway reduces costs, community college tuition is significantly lower than four-year institution tuition, while maintaining educational quality and momentum toward an AI degree.
How Transfers Work
The articulation agreements facilitated by SCTRAC ensure that courses completed at two-year institutions transfer seamlessly with full credit recognition. Students should work with academic advisors early to plan transfer sequences that align with target four-year institution requirements. Popular transfer routes include starting at regional community colleges in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and other metro areas, then transferring to bachelor's programs at Clemson, the University of South Carolina-Columbia, or other top-ranked institutions. For those pursuing advanced degrees, master's programs at Clemson and University of South Carolina-Columbia welcome transfer students with strong bachelor's credentials. The transfer process is streamlined through SCTRAC and supported by South Carolina Commission on Higher Education initiatives. Students can explore related transfer pathways in computer science, data science, and machine learning to maximize educational flexibility.
Why Pursue an Artificial Intelligence Degree in South Carolina?
Industry & Workforce
South Carolina has established itself as a growing hub for artificial intelligence education and career development. According to the latest IPEDS data, 16 institutions across the state offer AI programs, with 10 bachelor's programs, 4 master's programs, and 2 doctoral programs currently available. This diverse array of educational pathways, from two-year institutions to research universities, means students have accessible entry points regardless of their academic background. The state's commitment to AI education is reflected in strong program completions, with 80 bachelor's degrees, 26 master's degrees, and 17 doctoral degrees awarded annually.
Salary Outlook
South Carolina's major metropolitan areas. Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville, are increasingly attracting tech investment and innovation. The state's leading employers, including Prisma Health, BMW Manufacturing, Boeing, and Greenville Health System, are actively seeking AI-skilled professionals. Top-ranked institutions like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia lead the state in AI program quality and completion rates. For South Carolina residents, the LIFE Scholarship provides merit-based financial aid up to $5,000/year, significantly reducing the cost of obtaining an AI degree. Public in-state tuition averages $11,287 annually, making AI education both accessible and affordable compared to national standards.
Artificial Intelligence Program Availability in South Carolina
13 Programs
South Carolina offers 13 accredited artificial intelligence programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Artificial Intelligence Job Market & Salary Data in South Carolina
Employment Outlook
South Carolina's artificial intelligence job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a diverse employer base and strategic geographic positioning. The state currently hosts 16 institutions offering AI programs across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, producing 123 total completions annually (IPEDS). This talent pipeline feeds into major metropolitan areas including Columbia, Charleston-North Charleston, and Greenville-Anderson, where demand for AI professionals continues to rise. For current salary data and detailed occupational projections, prospective students can consult BLS State Data for South Carolina, which tracks computer and information technology occupations across the state's major regions.
Salaries by Metro
The Midlands, Lowcountry, Upstate, and Grand Strand regions represent the primary employment hubs for AI graduates. Columbia serves as the state capital and a growing tech center, while Charleston-North Charleston is a significant innovation corridor. Greenville-Anderson in the Upstate represents another critical job market with expanding opportunities. Students completing AI degrees, whether bachelor's (80 completions), master's (26 completions), or doctoral (17 completions) programs, have positioned themselves to compete in these dynamic markets. For those interested in related fields, exploring Data Science in South Carolina and Machine Learning in South Carolina can provide complementary career pathways and specialized expertise that enhance job prospects across multiple sectors.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in South Carolina$62,186$138,722
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Artificial Intelligence Programs in South Carolina
Online Programs
2 available in South Carolina
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$22,250/yr$24,722/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Artificial Intelligence Programs in Other States
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $4,500
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 26
- Median Tuition
- $9,800
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 177
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 62
- Median Tuition
- $8,600
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 112
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 70
- Median Tuition
- $44,500
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in South Carolina: FAQ
What are the best artificial intelligence degree programs in South Carolina?
The best artificial intelligence degree programs in South Carolina based on our methodology are: 1) Coastal Carolina University (86% graduation rate), 2) Wofford College, and 3) Charleston Southern University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). South Carolina offers 13 total accredited programs across 5 public and 8 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 9 bachelor's programs.
How much do artificial intelligence degree programs cost in South Carolina?
Artificial Intelligence degree program costs in South Carolina vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $24,722/year, while private institutions average $54,388/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $6,181/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $98,888 at public schools to $217,554 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can artificial intelligence degree graduates earn in South Carolina?
Artificial Intelligence professionals in South Carolina earn a median salary of $95,670, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $62,186, while senior roles exceed $138,722. Salaries vary by metro area: Charleston ($105,237), Columbia ($100,454) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online artificial intelligence degree programs in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina offers 2 accredited online Artificial Intelligence programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Claflin University and Coker University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire artificial intelligence degree graduates in South Carolina?
Major Artificial Intelligence employers in South Carolina include Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, Bosch, Boeing, BMW. The Charleston and Columbia metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from South Carolina universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. South Carolina's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an artificial intelligence degree program worth it in South Carolina?
An artificial intelligence degree program in South Carolina offers strong ROI with a $95,670 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $24,722/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($108,107), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do artificial intelligence degree programs take in South Carolina?
Standard completion times for artificial intelligence degree programs in South Carolina are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. South Carolina community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a South Carolina university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for artificial intelligence degree students in South Carolina?
South Carolina artificial intelligence degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. South Carolina state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by South Carolina's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
South Carolina salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.