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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
79.8
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data analytics degree programs: U of South Carolina-Columbia, College of Charleston, Coastal Carolina
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $11,460 to $15,306/year
U of South Carolina-Columbia offers the most affordable option at $12,288/yr
Data Analytics degree programs available: 2 master's, 1 doctoral in South Carolina
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Major employers: Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, Bosch, Boeing
Tech hubs in Charleston and Columbia
Hakia Research 2026
Data Analytics 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 Data Analytics programs
We rank 7 accredited data analytics 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 Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Carolina Worth It?
Answer
$95,670
Yes. The best data analytics degree programs in South Carolina deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $95,670 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $12,893/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Analytics Degree Rankings in South Carolina
Compare the top-ranked Data Analytics programs in South Carolina by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Programs in South Carolina
4
Programs ranked
$12,893
Avg tuition/yr
79%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of South Carolina-Columbia, College of Charleston, Coastal Carolina, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from South Carolina data analytics 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 $15,306 annually, with an average of $12,893/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 79%, with the highest reaching 86%. 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 data analytics degrees in South Carolina, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$12,518
Tuition/yr
70%
Grad rate
44.7
Hakia Score
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$11,460
Tuition/yr
86%
Grad rate
43.1
Hakia Score
Best Master's Data Analytics Programs in South Carolina
2
Programs ranked
$12,403
Avg tuition/yr
75%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina offers 2 master's degree programs in data analytics, 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, 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 $12,403/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 data analytics 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
64.6
Hakia Score
🥈
$12,518
Tuition/yr
70%
Grad rate
41.3
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Data Analytics Programs in South Carolina
1
Programs ranked
$12,288
Avg tuition/yr
80%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina is home to 1 doctoral programs in data analytics, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at 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 data analytics 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
69.4
Hakia Score
Data Analytics Degree Costs & Tuition in South Carolina
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $12,893/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $32,233/year |
| Community college tuition | $3,223/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $77,360 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $19,340 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Analytics Students in South Carolina
State Aid Programs
South Carolina residents pursuing data analytics degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways. The primary state-sponsored opportunity is the LIFE Scholarship, a merit-based award that provides up to $5,000 per year for eligible South Carolina residents attending in-state institutions (LIFE Scholarship). This scholarship significantly reduces the burden of tuition costs and can be particularly valuable when combined with federal financial aid programs. All 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). The application process opens on October 1st annually, and completing it early can improve access to available aid at both public and private institutions across the state.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond the LIFE Scholarship and federal aid, individual institutions offering data analytics programs provide their own merit-based and need-based scholarships. Top-ranked programs like the University of South Carolina-Columbia and Clemson University offer competitive institutional aid packages to qualified applicants. Students should consult with each school's financial aid office to explore scholarship opportunities specific to data analytics or STEM fields. The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (SC Commission on Higher Education) maintains comprehensive information about state grants and aid programs. For federal loan information and comparisons of aid packages across schools, the College Scorecard (College Scorecard) provides transparent cost and aid data. Students exploring graduate programs should investigate assistantship opportunities at top-ranked schools like Clemson and USC-Columbia, which often provide tuition support in exchange for research or teaching contributions.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator, South Carolina
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data analytics 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.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data analytics 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
Data Analytics 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 Data Analytics Graduates in South Carolina
Find data analytics jobs in South Carolina. These major employers across South Carolina metro areas are actively hiring data analytics degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Analytics Jobs in Charleston
SCBooz Allen Hamilton
consulting
Blackbaud
tech
BoomTown
tech
Benefitfocus
healthtech
Data Analytics Jobs in Columbia
SCBlueCross BlueShield of SC
healthcare
University of South Carolina
education
Data Analytics Jobs in Greenville
SCBMW Manufacturing
manufacturing
GE Power
energy
Michelin
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Data Analytics Degrees in South Carolina
State Transfer System
South Carolina's transfer system streamlines the pathway from two-year to four-year institutions for data analytics students. The SC Transfer and Articulation Center (https://www.sctrac.org/) maps transfer pathways between the state's 25 two-year institutions and 41 four-year institutions, ensuring credits earned at community colleges transfer seamlessly toward bachelor's degrees (IPEDS). Students beginning their data analytics education at institutions like technical colleges can complete general education and foundational coursework before advancing to state universities like the University of South Carolina-Columbia, Clemson University, or College of Charleston without academic setback or duplicate course requirements.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between specific two-year and four-year institutions define which courses apply toward data analytics degree requirements. Students transferring from community colleges often begin their upper-level analytics coursework upon arrival at four-year universities, allowing timely degree completion. This pathway is particularly valuable for working professionals and students seeking affordable entry points, as average public in-state tuition at two-year institutions is substantially lower than four-year universities. The SC Transfer and Articulation Center provides detailed guides, course-equivalency databases, and advising support to optimize transfer planning and ensure successful degree completion.
Transfer Planning Tips
To begin your transfer planning, visit the SC Transfer and Articulation Center and consult with academic advisors at your current institution. Explore related transfer-friendly programs through Data Science in South Carolina and Information Systems in South Carolina, and review national best bachelor's programs for your ultimate four-year destination.
Why Pursue a Data Analytics Degree in South Carolina?
Industry & Workforce
South Carolina offers a growing landscape for data analytics education with 9 institutions currently offering programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels (IPEDS). In 2023, the state produced 209 bachelor's degree completions in data analytics, demonstrating strong student demand and institutional commitment to the field. The University of South Carolina-Columbia leads the state with 199 completions, establishing itself as the premier destination for aspiring data professionals in the region.
Salary Outlook
South Carolina's geographic and economic advantages make it an attractive destination for data analytics education. The state's major employment centers in Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville host major employers including Prisma Health, MUSC, BMW Manufacturing, and Boeing, all organizations leveraging data analytics for operational excellence. Public in-state tuition at four-year institutions averages $11,287, making South Carolina programs accessible compared to national averages (College Scorecard). Students seeking top-ranked programs can attend institutions like Clemson University or the University of South Carolina-Columbia without relocating to expensive coastal tech hubs. Additionally, South Carolina residents may qualify for the LIFE Scholarship, a merit-based award up to $5,000 annually (LIFE Scholarship), further reducing educational costs.
Regional Tech Hubs
For those interested in comparative options, explore Data Science in South Carolina and Information Systems in South Carolina programs. National benchmarks are available through best bachelor's programs nationally and most affordable programs nationally.
Data Analytics Program Availability in South Carolina
4 Programs
South Carolina offers 4 accredited data analytics programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Analytics Job Market & Salary Data in South Carolina
Employment Outlook
South Carolina's data analytics job market is experiencing steady growth, driven by expansion across healthcare, manufacturing, and technology sectors. The state's major metropolitan areas. Columbia, Charleston-North Charleston, and Greenville-Anderson, serve as primary hubs for data analytics employment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, South Carolina offers competitive opportunities for analytics professionals across diverse industries. The state's economy benefits from significant employer presence in the Midlands, Lowcountry, and Upstate regions, creating multiple pathways for career advancement in data-driven roles.
Salaries by Metro
Educational pipeline strength supports job market demands. With 9 institutions offering data analytics programs across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, South Carolina produces 209 bachelor's completions annually (IPEDS Data). University of South Carolina-Columbia alone accounts for 199 completions, establishing it as the dominant regional source of analytics talent. Average public in-state tuition of $11,287 makes these programs accessible to local talent pools. As employers in Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia increasingly prioritize data-driven decision-making, demand for analytics professionals continues to align with program output. Explore related fields like Data Science in South Carolina and Machine Learning in South Carolina to understand the broader analytics ecosystem.
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 Data Analytics Programs in South Carolina
Online Programs
0 available in South Carolina
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$11,604/yr$12,893/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 Data Analytics Programs in Other States
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 23
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $9,800
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 64
- Median Tuition
- $11,800
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $11,500
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 44
- Median Tuition
- $11,700
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 42
- Median Tuition
- $47,200
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 34
- Median Tuition
- $54,500
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 17
- Median Tuition
- $12,700
Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Carolina: FAQ
What are the best data analytics degree programs in South Carolina?
The best data analytics degree programs in South Carolina based on our methodology are: 1) University of South Carolina-Columbia (80% graduation rate), 2) College of Charleston, and 3) Coastal Carolina University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). South Carolina offers 4 total accredited programs across 4 public and 0 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do data analytics degree programs cost in South Carolina?
Data Analytics degree program costs in South Carolina vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $12,893/year, while private institutions average $28,365/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,223/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $51,572 at public schools to $113,458 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 data analytics degree graduates earn in South Carolina?
Data Analytics 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 data analytics degree programs in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina offers 0 accredited online Data Analytics 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 various state universities. 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 data analytics degree graduates in South Carolina?
Major Data Analytics 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 data analytics degree program worth it in South Carolina?
A data analytics 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 $12,893/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 data analytics degree programs take in South Carolina?
Standard completion times for data analytics 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 data analytics degree students in South Carolina?
South Carolina data analytics 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.