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$14,038
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
90.2
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: Clemson, U of South Carolina-Columbia, Wofford College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $8,356 to $57,902/year
U of South Carolina-Columbia offers the most affordable option at $12,288/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 4 master's, 2 doctoral in South Carolina
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online computer engineering 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
Computer Engineering 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 Computer Engineering programs
We rank 19 accredited computer engineering 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 Computer Engineering Degree Programs in South Carolina Worth It?
Answer
$95,670
Yes. The best computer engineering 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
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in South Carolina
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in South Carolina by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in South Carolina
5
Programs ranked
$13,373
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 13 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 5 public and 8 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Clemson, U of South Carolina-Columbia, Wofford College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from South Carolina computer engineering 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 $8,356 to $57,902 annually, with an average of $24,722/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, 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 computer engineering degrees in South Carolina, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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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
79%
Grad rate
85.1
Hakia Score
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Citadel Military College of South Carolina
Charleston, SCPublic
$8,356
Tuition/yr
75%
Grad rate
80.1
Hakia Score
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in South Carolina
2
Programs ranked
$13,163
Avg tuition/yr
83%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina offers 4 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Clemson, U of South Carolina-Columbia, College of Charleston, 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 $11,800/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 computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$14,038
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
85.3
Hakia Score
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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
79%
Grad rate
78.7
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in South Carolina
2
Programs ranked
$13,163
Avg tuition/yr
83%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina is home to 2 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of South Carolina-Columbia, Clemson 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 computer engineering 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
79%
Grad rate
74.5
Hakia Score
Computer Engineering 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 Computer Engineering Students in South Carolina
State Aid Programs
South Carolina residents pursuing computer engineering degrees have access to several financial aid opportunities designed to make higher education more affordable. The LIFE Scholarship, administered by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, offers merit-based awards up to $5,000 per year for eligible South Carolina residents attending approved institutions (LIFE Scholarship). This state-specific program complements federal aid options, providing meaningful support for students enrolled in bachelor's and graduate programs across the state's computer engineering programs.
Key Programs & Amounts
All students, regardless of state residency, can access federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA opens the door to grants, loans, and work-study opportunities via (Federal Student Aid). Additionally, many South Carolina institutions offer institutional scholarships and need-based aid packages. Students should contact their chosen program directly, whether at Clemson University, the University of South Carolina-Columbia, or other state institutions, to learn about computer engineering-specific scholarships. The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (https://www.che.sc.gov/) maintains comprehensive resources on state aid programs and transfer pathways. For context on program costs and affordability, explore our most affordable computer engineering programs rankings to compare tuition and financial aid packages.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, South Carolina
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering 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.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
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
$133,333
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)$2,712,662
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)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
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
Computer Engineering 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 Computer Engineering Graduates in South Carolina
Find computer engineering jobs in South Carolina. These major employers across South Carolina metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Charleston
SCBooz Allen Hamilton
consulting
Blackbaud
tech
BoomTown
tech
Benefitfocus
healthtech
Computer Engineering Jobs in Columbia
SCBlueCross BlueShield of SC
healthcare
University of South Carolina
education
Computer Engineering Jobs in Greenville
SCBMW Manufacturing
manufacturing
GE Power
energy
Michelin
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in South Carolina
State Transfer System
South Carolina operates a coordinated transfer system helping seamless pathway progression from community colleges to four-year universities. The SC Transfer and Articulation Center provides comprehensive transfer guides mapping course equivalencies across institutions, enabling students to complete foundational coursework at 25 two-year institutions before transferring to bachelor's degree-granting schools (SC Transfer and Articulation Center). This approach reduces overall degree costs and allows students to earn credentials before transferring to programs at Clemson University, University of South Carolina-Columbia, and other top-ranked institutions. Transfer students benefit from standardized course numbering systems and guaranteed credit acceptance when following articulation agreements, ensuring academic progress and reducing time-to-degree.
How Transfers Work
Students beginning at community colleges should complete general education requirements and introductory engineering courses (calculus, physics, chemistry, programming) that transfer directly to bachelor's programs. South Carolina's transfer framework eliminates redundancy and streamlines the path to a computer engineering degree. Many four-year institutions explicitly guarantee acceptance of transfer coursework completed within these articulation agreements, maximizing financial efficiency. Prospective transfer students should consult the SC Transfer and Articulation Center website to identify participating two-year and four-year institutions and review specific transfer guides for their target program. For additional pathway information, explore related degree programs: Computer Science in South Carolina and Information Technology in South Carolina. Combined with the LIFE Scholarship and affordable state tuition averaging $11,287, transfer pathways make computer engineering education accessible to diverse student populations.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in South Carolina?
Industry & Workforce
South Carolina offers a strong computer engineering education ecosystem with 20 institutions providing undergraduate and graduate programs across the state (IPEDS). The state produced 339 bachelor's degree completions in computer engineering during the 2023 academic year, demonstrating strong program capacity and industry demand. Public four-year institutions maintain an average in-state tuition of $11,287, making South Carolina an affordable destination for computer engineering studies compared to national averages (IPEDS). Leading institutions like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia dominate completion numbers, with Clemson alone accounting for 203 completions and establishing the state as a computer engineering education hub.
Salary Outlook
The state's geography positions students near thriving technology corridors. Major employers including Boeing, BMW Manufacturing, Prisma Health, and MUSC offer internship and career opportunities across the Midlands, Lowcountry, Upstate, and Grand Strand regions. Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville serve as metropolitan centers with growing tech sectors, providing networking and job placement advantages. South Carolina residents may qualify for the LIFE Scholarship, a merit-based award providing up to $5,000 per year to eligible students (South Carolina Commission on Higher Education). For more context on related fields, explore Computer Science in South Carolina, Software Engineering in South Carolina, and Information Technology in South Carolina.
Computer Engineering Program Availability in South Carolina
13 Programs
South Carolina offers 13 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in South Carolina
Employment Outlook
South Carolina's computer engineering job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a diverse employer base across multiple regions. The state hosts 20 institutions offering computer engineering programs, producing 339 bachelor's degree completions annually alongside 66 master's degrees and 44 doctoral degrees (IPEDS). This consistent pipeline of talent supports employment opportunities across the Midlands, Lowcountry, Upstate, and Grand Strand regions. Major metropolitan areas including Columbia, Charleston-North Charleston, and Greenville-Anderson are emerging as technology hubs, attracting both established corporations and innovative startups seeking skilled computer engineers.
Salaries by Metro
The state's competitive landscape is shaped by leading employers investing heavily in engineering talent. According to the (BLS), South Carolina's tech sector continues to expand, with major cities like Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia offering concentrated employment opportunities. Students completing computer engineering degrees from top-ranked programs like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia gain access to this growing job market. For comprehensive state-level salary and employment data, the College Scorecard provides detailed metrics on graduate outcomes and earning potential. Additional career pathway information is available through the SC Transfer and Articulation Center, which supports workforce development across the state's higher education system.
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 Computer Engineering 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 Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $5,500
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 28
- Median Tuition
- $9,800
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 187
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 49
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 129
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 74
- Median Tuition
- $44,200
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in South Carolina: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in South Carolina?
The best computer engineering degree programs in South Carolina based on our methodology are: 1) Clemson University (81% graduation rate), 2) University of South Carolina-Columbia, and 3) Wofford College. 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 13 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in South Carolina?
Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering degree graduates earn in South Carolina?
Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering degree programs in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina offers 2 accredited online Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering degree graduates in South Carolina?
Major Computer Engineering 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 a computer engineering degree program worth it in South Carolina?
A computer engineering 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 computer engineering degree programs take in South Carolina?
Standard completion times for computer engineering 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 computer engineering degree students in South Carolina?
South Carolina computer engineering 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.