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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
91.1
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information technology degree programs: Clemson, U of South Carolina-Columbia, College of Charleston
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
Information Technology degree programs available: 3 master's, 1 doctoral in South Carolina
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
3 online information technology 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
Information Technology 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 Information Technology programs
We rank 23 accredited information technology 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 Information Technology Degree Programs in South Carolina Worth It?
Answer
$95,670
Yes. The best information technology degree programs in South Carolina deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $95,670 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $16,444/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Technology Degree Rankings in South Carolina
Compare the top-ranked Information Technology programs in South Carolina by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Information Technology Programs in South Carolina
6
Programs ranked
$13,296
Avg tuition/yr
48%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina ranks among the nation's top destinations for information technology education, with 19 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 12 public and 6 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 information technology 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 $16,444/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, with the highest reaching 98%. 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 information technology degrees in South Carolina, these top-ranked information technology schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$11,460
Tuition/yr
48%
Grad rate
74.5
Hakia Score
#4
University of South Carolina-Upstate
Spartanburg, SCPublic
$11,208
Tuition/yr
43%
Grad rate
73.2
Hakia Score
#5
University of South Carolina Beaufort
Bluffton, SCPublic
$10,344
Tuition/yr
34%
Grad rate
68.8
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Strayer University-South Carolina | Greenville, SC | Private for-profit | $13,725 | 17% | 59.6 |
Best Master's Information Technology Programs in South Carolina
1
Programs ranked
$12,288
Avg tuition/yr
79%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
South Carolina offers 3 master's degree programs in information technology, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Clemson, Charleston Southern, Strayer University-South ..., 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 $19,381/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 information technology 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
$12,288
Tuition/yr
79%
Grad rate
85.6
Hakia Score
Information Technology Degree Costs & Tuition in South Carolina
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $16,444/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $41,110/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,111/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $98,664 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $24,666 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Technology Students in South Carolina
State Aid Programs
South Carolina residents pursuing Information Technology degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to reduce the cost of higher education. The primary state-specific opportunity is the LIFE Scholarship, a merit-based award that provides eligible South Carolina residents with up to $5,000 per year toward tuition and fees (LIFE Scholarship). This scholarship is administered through the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education and represents a significant resource for students attending public and private institutions throughout the state. Beyond state grants, 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).
Key Programs & Amounts
Many institutions offering Information Technology programs provide institutional scholarships and need-based aid packages tailored to their student populations. Students are encouraged to contact financial aid offices at their chosen institution to learn about department-specific scholarships, employer partnerships, and assistantship opportunities. The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education maintains comprehensive information on state aid programs and institutional financial resources. Additionally, explore resources through the College Scorecard to compare net price and aid availability across South Carolina's 29 institutions offering IT programs (College Scorecard). For more details on related programs, review information about Information Systems in South Carolina and Cybersecurity in South Carolina, which often share similar funding opportunities.
Information Technology Degree ROI Calculator, South Carolina
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information technology 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.
Information Technology Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information technology degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+692%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,279,487
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)$2,314,895
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
Information Technology 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 Information Technology Graduates in South Carolina
Find information technology jobs in South Carolina. These major employers across South Carolina metro areas are actively hiring information technology degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Technology Jobs in Charleston
SCBooz Allen Hamilton
consulting
Blackbaud
tech
BoomTown
tech
Benefitfocus
healthtech
Information Technology Jobs in Columbia
SCBlueCross BlueShield of SC
healthcare
University of South Carolina
education
Information Technology Jobs in Greenville
SCBMW Manufacturing
manufacturing
GE Power
energy
Michelin
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Information Technology Degrees in South Carolina
State Transfer System
South Carolina provides a structured transfer system to help student progression from two-year to four-year institutions. The SC Transfer and Articulation Center (SCTRAC) maps transfer pathways and articulation agreements across the state's public higher education system, ensuring that credits earned at community colleges and technical colleges transfer seamlessly to bachelor's degree programs (SC Transfer and Articulation Center). With 2 associate's degree programs in Information Technology and 23 bachelor's degree programs statewide, students can begin their IT education at an affordable two-year institution and complete their degree at universities like Clemson, the University of South Carolina-Columbia, or Coastal Carolina University without losing credits or delaying graduation.
How Transfers Work
Students pursuing an associate's degree should coordinate with their institution's transfer advisor to identify which courses align with bachelor's degree requirements at their target four-year institution. The SCTRAC system provides detailed course equivalency information and guaranteed admission agreements for qualified transfer students. Many four-year institutions in South Carolina, particularly public universities, reserve dedicated admission pathways for community college transfers. For prospective students seeking to minimize costs while maintaining academic quality, consider starting at an affordable two-year program and transferring to a top-ranked institution like the University of South Carolina Beaufort or University of South Carolina Aiken (see Most Affordable Programs for tuition comparisons). Explore Network Administration in South Carolina and Cloud Computing in South Carolina as transfer-friendly specializations with broad institutional availability.
Why Pursue an Information Technology Degree in South Carolina?
Industry & Workforce
South Carolina offers a strong ecosystem for Information Technology education with 29 institutions offering IT programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, South Carolina's colleges and universities awarded 788 bachelor's degrees, 84 master's degrees, and 6 doctoral degrees in Information Technology, demonstrating strong educational capacity and student demand. The state's higher education landscape includes institutions like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia, which collectively produced 555 completions, representing the majority of IT graduates in the state.
Salary Outlook
South Carolina's strategic location and thriving tech hubs make it an ideal place to study IT. Major metropolitan areas including Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville serve as regional technology centers, home to major employers such as Prisma Health, MUSC, BMW Manufacturing, and Boeing. Public in-state tuition at four-year institutions averages just $11,287 annually, making IT education accessible (College Scorecard). Additionally, South Carolina residents may qualify for the LIFE Scholarship, offering merit-based awards up to $5,000 per year for eligible students (South Carolina Commission on Higher Education). Explore Information Systems in South Carolina, Cybersecurity in South Carolina, and Cloud Computing in South Carolina as complementary specializations within the IT field.
Information Technology Program Availability in South Carolina
19 Programs
South Carolina offers 19 accredited information technology programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Information Technology Job Market & Salary Data in South Carolina
Employment Outlook
South Carolina's information technology job market is experiencing steady growth driven by expanding tech sectors across the state's major metro areas. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state's technology workforce continues to expand as employers in Columbia, Charleston-North Charleston, and Greenville-Anderson increasingly seek qualified IT professionals. The Midlands region, anchored by Columbia, serves as a significant employment hub alongside the Lowcountry's Charleston-North Charleston metro area and the Upstate's Greenville-Anderson region. These three metropolitan areas represent the strongest job markets for information technology graduates in South Carolina.
Salaries by Metro
South Carolina produces a strong pipeline of IT talent across its higher education system, with 788 bachelor's degree completions and 84 master's degree completions annually (IPEDS). The state's 29 institutions offering information technology programs include leading research universities like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina-Columbia, which together account for over 555 completions annually. Career pathways are further supported by the SC Transfer and Articulation Center, which helps students navigate transfer options between the state's community colleges and four-year institutions. For detailed salary and employment projections specific to technology roles, prospective students can reference the College Scorecard for comprehensive labor market data.
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 Information Technology Programs in South Carolina
Online Programs
3 available in South Carolina
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$14,800/yr$16,444/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 Information Technology Programs in Other States
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 88
- Median Tuition
- $2,400
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 69
- Median Tuition
- $4,400
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 123
- Median Tuition
- $1,500
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 27
- Median Tuition
- $7,300
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 137
- Median Tuition
- $6,800
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 138
- Median Tuition
- $13,800
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 55
- Median Tuition
- $27,400
Best Information Technology Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 71
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Information Technology Degree Programs in South Carolina: FAQ
What are the best information technology degree programs in South Carolina?
The best information technology degree programs in South Carolina based on our methodology are: 1) Clemson University (81% graduation rate), 2) University of South Carolina-Columbia, and 3) College of Charleston. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). South Carolina offers 19 total accredited programs across 12 public and 6 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 19 bachelor's programs.
How much do information technology degree programs cost in South Carolina?
Information Technology degree program costs in South Carolina vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $16,444/year, while private institutions average $36,177/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,111/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $65,776 at public schools to $144,707 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 information technology degree graduates earn in South Carolina?
Information Technology 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 information technology degree programs in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina offers 3 accredited online Information Technology 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 Strayer University-South Carolina and Bob Jones 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 information technology degree graduates in South Carolina?
Major Information Technology employers in South Carolina include Blackbaud, BenefitFocus, Bosch, Boeing, BMW. The Charleston and Columbia metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from South Carolina universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. South Carolina's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information technology degree program worth it in South Carolina?
An information technology 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 $16,444/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 information technology degree programs take in South Carolina?
Standard completion times for information technology 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 information technology degree students in South Carolina?
South Carolina information technology 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.