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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
76.0
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data science degree programs: U of South Carolina-Columbia, Coastal Carolina, 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
Data Science degree programs available: 3 master's, 1 doctoral in South Carolina
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
1 online data science 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
Data Science 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 Science programs
We rank 16 accredited data 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.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Data Science Degree Programs in South Carolina Worth It?
Answer
$95,670
Yes. The best data science degree programs in South Carolina deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $95,670 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $24,820/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Science Degree Rankings in South Carolina
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in South Carolina by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Science Programs in South Carolina
12
Programs ranked
$26,192
Avg tuition/yr
83%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina ranks among the nation's top destinations for data science education, with 12 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 8 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of South Carolina-Columbia, Coastal Carolina, Wofford College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from South Carolina data 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 $11,460 to $57,902 annually, with an average of $26,192/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 83%, 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 data science degrees in South Carolina, these top-ranked data science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
🥈
$11,460
Tuition/yr
86%
Grad rate
73.6
Hakia Score
#4
$12,518
Tuition/yr
70%
Grad rate
64.8
Hakia Score
Show all 12 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Furman University | Greenville, SC | Private | $57,902 | — | 59.2 |
| #7 | Benedict College | Columbia, SC | Private | $15,400 | — | 57.6 |
| #8 | Bob Jones University | Greenville, SC | Private | $19,756 | — | 55.8 |
| #9 | Presbyterian College | Clinton, SC | Private | $40,200 | — | 52.8 |
| #10 | Claflin University | Orangeburg, SC | Private | $16,476 | — | 49.7 |
| #11 | Coker University | Hartsville, SC | Private | $30,864 | — | 43.3 |
| #12 | Winthrop University | Rock Hill, SC | Public | $15,306 | — | 38.3 |
Best Master's Data Science 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 data science, 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 data science 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
60.6
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Data Science 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 science, 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 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.
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University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SCPublic
$12,288
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad rate
68.6
Hakia Score
Data Science Degree Costs & Tuition in South Carolina
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $24,820/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $62,050/year |
| Community college tuition | $6,205/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $148,920 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $37,230 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Science Students in South Carolina
State Aid Programs
South Carolina residents pursuing data science degrees benefit from several financial aid opportunities. The primary state-level aid program is the LIFE Scholarship, a merit-based award that provides eligible South Carolina residents with up to $5,000 per year toward tuition costs (LIFE Scholarship). This scholarship significantly reduces the financial burden for in-state students at public institutions, where average tuition is $11,287 annually (IPEDS). Beyond state aid, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities through (Federal Student Aid). The FAFSA is essential for determining eligibility for Pell Grants and federal loan programs.
Key Programs & Amounts
Many South Carolina institutions offering data science programs also provide institutional scholarships and assistantships. Top-ranked schools like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia offer merit-based scholarships specific to STEM disciplines, often covering partial or full tuition. Students should contact their institution's financial aid office directly to explore department-specific scholarships for data science majors. The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (SCHE) maintains comprehensive information on state aid programs and institutional resources. For additional scholarship opportunities, students can explore both national best programs and related fields like data analytics, which may share similar funding pathways.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, South Carolina
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data 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.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$114,286
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)$2,325,139
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)$120,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.1%
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 Science 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 Science Graduates in South Carolina
Find data science jobs in South Carolina. These major employers across South Carolina metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Science Jobs in Charleston
SCBooz Allen Hamilton
consulting
Blackbaud
tech
BoomTown
tech
Benefitfocus
healthtech
Data Science Jobs in Columbia
SCBlueCross BlueShield of SC
healthcare
University of South Carolina
education
Data Science Jobs in Greenville
SCBMW Manufacturing
manufacturing
GE Power
energy
Michelin
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Data Science Degrees in South Carolina
State Transfer System
South Carolina's transfer system streamlines the pathway from two-year to four-year institutions through the SC Transfer and Articulation Center (SCTRAC). This state-coordinated system maps transfer agreements between the state's 25 two-year institutions and 41 four-year institutions, enabling students to complete general education and foundational coursework cost-effectively before pursuing specialized data science degrees. Students beginning their education at community colleges can follow established articulation agreements that guarantee course credit recognition at bachelor's-granting universities. This approach significantly reduces overall degree costs, as two-year institutions charge lower tuition than four-year universities, while maintaining seamless academic progression.
How Transfers Work
Students pursuing data science through a transfer pathway should begin with mathematics, statistics, computer science, and programming courses that satisfy prerequisite requirements for upper-level data science coursework. The SC Transfer and Articulation Center provides detailed mapping of which community college courses align with bachelor's program requirements at institutions like Clemson University, University of South Carolina-Columbia, and College of Charleston. Transfer students benefit from the same state financial aid opportunities as direct admits, including eligibility for the LIFE Scholarship and federal Pell Grants (Federal Student Aid). For prospective students interested in related fields, review data analytics programs and computer science options to identify additional transfer-friendly pathways. Starting at a two-year institution offers significant cost savings while maintaining quality educational standards across South Carolina's higher education network.
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in South Carolina?
Industry & Workforce
South Carolina offers a strong ecosystem for data science education with 19 institutions delivering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state's higher education landscape includes 14 bachelor's programs, 4 master's programs, and 1 doctoral program, generating 121 bachelor's completions annually. Leading institutions like the University of South Carolina-Columbia have produced 57 completions, while College of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University contribute 23 and 21 completions respectively. This concentration of quality programs positions South Carolina as an emerging hub for data science talent development in the Southeast.
Salary Outlook
The state's major metropolitan areas. Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and North Charleston, host significant employers in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology sectors. Organizations like Prisma Health, MUSC, BMW Manufacturing, Boeing, and Greenville Health System actively recruit data science professionals, creating strong employment pathways for graduates (BLS State Data). With average public in-state tuition at just $11,287 annually for four-year institutions, South Carolina programs offer exceptional affordability compared to national alternatives. Top-ranked schools like Clemson University (#1 bachelor's) and University of South Carolina-Columbia (#2 bachelor's) maintain competitive tuition rates while delivering rigorous data science curricula. Students should explore data analytics programs and machine learning options to broaden their technical expertise within the state's educational offerings.
Data Science Program Availability in South Carolina
13 Programs
South Carolina offers 13 accredited data science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in South Carolina
Employment Outlook
South Carolina's data science job market is growing steadily, with 19 institutions across the state offering data science programs at various levels (IPEDS). The state supports this academic infrastructure through strong higher education systems, with 41 four-year institutions and 25 two-year institutions providing pathways into data science careers (South Carolina Commission on Higher Education). Major metropolitan areas including Columbia, Charleston-North Charleston, and Greenville-Anderson are emerging as regional hubs for data science employment, offering diverse career opportunities across healthcare, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
Salaries by Metro
For current salary and employment data, the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides detailed occupational information for South Carolina (BLS State Data). Students graduating from top-ranked programs like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia enter a competitive market with strong employer demand. The state's average public in-state tuition of $11,287 for four-year institutions makes data science education accessible, while out-of-state tuition averages $26,140. To explore related career pathways, prospective students can investigate Data Analytics in South Carolina and Machine Learning in South Carolina, which complement data science credentials and expand employment prospects.
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 Science Programs in South Carolina
Online Programs
1 available in South Carolina
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$22,338/yr$24,820/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 Science Programs in Other States
Best Data Science Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $6,500
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 30
- Median Tuition
- $7,200
Best Data Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 180
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 77
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 120
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 71
- Median Tuition
- $47,600
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 33
- Median Tuition
- $11,400
Data Science Degree Programs in South Carolina: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in South Carolina?
The best data science degree programs in South Carolina based on our methodology are: 1) University of South Carolina-Columbia (80% graduation rate), 2) Coastal Carolina University, 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 12 bachelor's programs.
How much do data science degree programs cost in South Carolina?
Data Science degree program costs in South Carolina vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $24,820/year, while private institutions average $54,604/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $6,205/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $99,280 at public schools to $218,416 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 science degree graduates earn in South Carolina?
Data Science 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 science degree programs in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina offers 1 accredited online Data Science 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 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 data science degree graduates in South Carolina?
Major Data Science 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 science degree program worth it in South Carolina?
A data science 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 $24,820/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 science degree programs take in South Carolina?
Standard completion times for data science 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 science degree students in South Carolina?
South Carolina data science 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.