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Key Takeaways
Charleston is emerging as a Southeast tech hub, with Blackbaud, Benefitfocus, BoomTown, and Booz Allen Hamilton all hiring CS graduates
Greenville adds manufacturing-tech demand from BMW, GE Power, and Michelin; Columbia anchors healthcare IT through BlueCross BlueShield of SC
Hakia Research 2026
Clemson University ranks #1 with an 81% graduation rate and an 84.9 overall score at $14,038/yr in-state tuition
University of South Carolina-Columbia follows closely at #2 with CAE-CDE and CAE-R designations and $12,288/yr tuition
South Carolina CS graduates earn a $95,670 median salary with 22% projected job growth through 2032
The state's lower cost of living compared to neighboring Virginia and North Carolina improves take-home pay for graduates
Citadel Military College of South Carolina offers the lowest bachelor's tuition at $8,356/yr with a CAE-CDE cybersecurity designation
South Carolina State University ($9,528/yr) and University of South Carolina Aiken ($10,398/yr, 93% grad rate) also provide affordable public paths
24 bachelor's programs across 24 institutions give South Carolina unusually broad coverage for a mid-size state
The SC Transfer and Articulation Center (SCTRAC) maintains detailed transfer pathways from two-year to four-year institutions
Updated June 27, 2026
How we ranked South Carolina Computer Science programs
We rank 32 accredited computer science 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.
Are Computer Science Degree Programs in South Carolina Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in South Carolina
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in South Carolina by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in South Carolina
Program Landscape
South Carolina ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 24 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 11 public and 13 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Clemson, U of South Carolina-Columbia, College of Charleston, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from South Carolina computer science 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 $20,923/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 81%, with the highest reaching 93%. 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 science degrees in South Carolina, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Show all 10 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Presbyterian College | Clinton, SC | Private nonprofit | $41,810 | 51% | 67.3 |
| #7 | University of South Carolina Aiken | Aiken, SC | Public | $10,398 | 40% | 67.2 |
| #8 | Charleston Southern University | Charleston, SC | Private nonprofit | $31,870 | 47% | 60.0 |
| #9 | Coker University | Hartsville, SC | Private nonprofit | $32,408 | 40% | 57.6 |
| #10 | Benedict College | Columbia, SC | Private nonprofit | $15,708 | 24% | 56.5 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in South Carolina
Program Landscape
South Carolina offers 5 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Clemson, U of South Carolina-Columbia, Charleston Southern, 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 $15,516/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 science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Citadel Military College of South Carolina
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in South Carolina
Program Landscape
South Carolina is home to 2 doctoral programs in computer science, 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 science 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.
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in South Carolina
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $20,923/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $52,308/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,231/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $125,540 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $31,384 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in South Carolina
State Aid Programs
South Carolina residents pursuing computer science degrees have access to several financial aid programs designed to make higher education more affordable. The LIFE Scholarship, administered by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, provides merit-based awards up to $5,000 per year for qualifying South Carolina residents (LIFE Scholarship). This scholarship can significantly reduce the overall cost of attendance at both public and private institutions across the state. Additionally, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). Many institutions in South Carolina also offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages specific to computer science majors.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal programs, individual institutions provide substantial scholarship opportunities for computer science students. Top-ranked programs like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia offer competitive scholarship packages that can help offset tuition costs. For detailed information about federal financial aid options, eligibility requirements, and application timelines, students can consult resources at (Federal Student Aid). The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education also maintains comprehensive resources for student funding at (South Carolina Commission on Higher Education). Students should explore both need-based and merit-based aid options, as well as employer sponsorship programs with major South Carolina employers in the tech sector.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, South Carolina
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science 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 Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$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
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
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 Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in South Carolina metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Charleston | $105K |
| Columbia | $100K |
| Greenville | $96K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in South Carolina
Find computer science jobs in South Carolina. These major employers across South Carolina metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Charleston
SCComputer Science Jobs in Columbia
SCComputer Science Jobs in Greenville
SCTransfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in South Carolina
State Transfer System
South Carolina's transfer system is designed to help seamless progression from community colleges to four-year universities. The SC Transfer and Articulation Center (SCTRAC) maintains detailed transfer pathways and articulation agreements that allow students to complete associate degrees at two-year institutions and transition directly into bachelor's programs without losing credits. South Carolina's system includes 25 two-year institutions and 41 four-year institutions, creating numerous pathways for computer science students (IPEDS). The state's 1 associate's degree program in computer science provides an affordable entry point, with Limestone University offering this credential at $26,400 tuition.
How Transfers Work
Transfer students benefit from standardized course numbering and aligned curricula that ensure their credits count toward bachelor's degree requirements at institutions like Clemson University, University of South Carolina-Columbia, Coastal Carolina University, and College of Charleston. The SCTRAC system publishes approved transfer guides for computer science and related fields, allowing students to plan their academic pathway transparently (SC Transfer and Articulation Center). Students beginning at community colleges often save significantly on tuition, averaging $11,287 annually at public four-year institutions, before transferring (IPEDS). For students seeking online flexibility, explore online bachelor's programs available through South Carolina universities like University of South Carolina Beaufort, which offer exceptional graduation rates and affordability for distance learners.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in South Carolina?
Industry & Workforce
South Carolina offers a strong and accessible pathway to a computer science degree, with 34 institutions across the state offering programs at the associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral levels (IPEDS). In 2023 alone, South Carolina institutions awarded 641 bachelor's degrees in computer science, demonstrating strong program capacity and graduate employment potential. The state's affordability stands out: the average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $11,287 per year, significantly lower than the national average, making South Carolina an excellent choice for cost-conscious students (IPEDS).
Salary Outlook
The state's major tech hubs. Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and the Grand Strand, host thriving technology sectors supported by major employers including Prisma Health, MUSC, BMW Manufacturing, Boeing, and Greenville Health System. Top-ranked institutions like Clemson University (272 completions) and University of South Carolina-Columbia (200 completions) lead the state in computer science education and research. Students can explore specialized fields through related degree programs, including Software Engineering in South Carolina, Data Science in South Carolina, and Cybersecurity in South Carolina. For merit-based financial support, South Carolina residents may qualify for the LIFE Scholarship, which awards up to $5,000 annually to eligible students (South Carolina Commission on Higher Education).
Computer Science Program Availability in South Carolina
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in South Carolina
Employment Outlook
South Carolina's computer science job market is supported by a strong network of educational institutions and growing tech sector demand. The state hosts 34 institutions offering computer science programs, with 26 institutions delivering bachelor's degrees and 5 institutions offering master's programs (IPEDS). Recent graduates from top programs like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia enter a competitive landscape where major metropolitan areas, including Columbia, Charleston-North Charleston, and Greenville-Anderson, serve as primary employment hubs. These regions benefit from the presence of major employers actively recruiting computer science talent, creating strong career pathways for students across all degree levels.
Salaries by Metro
Career prospects in South Carolina's computer science field are strengthened by the state's strategic geographic position and diverse employer base. According to the BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, South Carolina's tech workforce continues to grow as companies expand operations across the state. Students completing bachelor's degrees, with 641 completions recorded across 26 institutions, are entering positions at companies ranging from healthcare systems to manufacturing and defense contractors. The three largest metro areas (Columbia, Charleston-North Charleston, and Greenville-Anderson) represent the strongest job markets, with consistent demand for software developers, systems analysts, and IT specialists. Prospective students should explore how degree choices align with these regional opportunities and consider programs like Software Engineering in South Carolina or Data Science in South Carolina to enhance specialization within the broader computer science field.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in South Carolina
Online Programs
3 available in South Carolina
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 50
- Median Tuition
- $6,800
- Total Programs
- 44
- Median Tuition
- $7,200
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- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
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- Median Tuition
- $11,000
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $40,400
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Computer Science Degree Programs in South Carolina: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in South Carolina?
How much do computer science degree programs cost in South Carolina?
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in South Carolina?
Are there online computer science degree programs in South Carolina?
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in South Carolina?
Is a computer science degree program worth it in South Carolina?
How long do computer science degree programs take in South Carolina?
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in South Carolina?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
South Carolina salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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.