The world of computer science is growing, and students looking into accredited computer science degree programs in South Carolina will find plenty of opportunity in a state that offers numerous jobs within the health care, manufacturing and military industries. Nationwide, computer and information research scientists will see a 15 percent increase in the number of jobs over the next decade according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. South Carolina is home to a variety of major businesses due to the state’s low taxation and ample resources. The following guide offers an overview of the Palmetto State’s best universities with solid computer science programs. To see more accredited computer science degree programs in South Carolina, visit Computer Science Degree Programs in South Carolina (T-Z).

Clemson University

College of Engineering and Science

Not only does Clemson University rank 21st on U.S. News and World Report’s list of the best national universities, but the school also boasts a hefty amount of awards and distinguished rankings including 12th in the nation for happiest students by The Princeton Review. Founded in 1889, this public school with family roots has grown into a large campus with more than 21,000 enrolled students as of 2013. Students looking for an accredited computer science degree program in South Carolina will have no trouble finding quality programs within Clemson University’s College of Engineering and Science as the department offers two undergraduate and two graduate degrees in the field.

B.A. in Computer Science

Most computer science programs offered by major universities will focus on the technical aspects of the industry, but Clemson University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science that combines disciplines from other majors within the university to offer a well-rounded education for those enrolled. With the B.A. in Computer Science, students can explore a more flexible schedule that enables them to customize their degree while still gaining the benefit of a technically sound education in computer science. The B.A. program requires a total of 121 semester hours, and students need to maintain a minimum C average in all computer science prerequisite and core courses. With the bachelor’s program, students will need to take general education classes as well as computer core classes covering subjects such as discrete structures, advanced math concepts and a foundational course on software development. Students will also choose a minor and complete those requirements in conjunction with the major.

B.S. in Computer Science

Like the Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science, the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science enables students to explore a wide range of courses under the guidance of the computer science field. Unlike the B.A. program, the B.S. program focuses on the technical aspects of computer science in a more traditional format. Students who study at Clemson University gain access to technically advanced courses and equipment designed to help them hone skills that will be useful for a career in computer science. The program centers on key aspects of computer science such as engineering applications and software development. Students enrolled here will take a minimum of 122 semester hours to graduate, and courses cover a broad range of computational subjects such as algorithms and data structures, computer systems organization and an introductory course on software engineering. In order to graduate, students must pass all core classes with a grade of C or better.

M.S. in Computer Science

For students interested in accredited computer science degree programs in South Carolina at the graduate level, Clemson University offers an M.S. in Computer Science created for people who showcase particular ability during their undergraduate careers. Students who pursue a master’s degree will choose from one of six concentration areas for their studies: Systems and Implementation, Software Development, Interactive Computing, Graphics and Visualization, Computing Foundations, and Applications. The master’s program requires advanced study on a wide range of computational classes and subjects because the program itself is designed for those who plan to enter into the computer science research field, pursue doctoral studies or work in advanced industries as high-level technicians in the field. In order to earn the master’s degree, students must complete 30 hours of approved courses with a 3.0 minimum grade point average. Students may choose to follow a course-only option or complete a thesis at the end of the program.

Ph.D. in Computer Science

Students who want to pursue advanced careers in a research or industrial setting will appreciate Clemson University’s Ph.D. in Computer Science program. Designed only for those who show particular interest and ability in the field, the doctoral program enables students to explore a variety of research methods and subjects as they relate to the students’ unique needs and career goals. This program focuses heavily on research. Hour requirements will vary based on a student’s intended focus, but the general credit requirements include a total of 40 hours distributed as follows: one hour of introductory research, three hours of “Research Experience,” 12 credit hours of work that goes beyond master’s-level coursework, six hours of doctoral seminars and an additional 18 hours of individual research at the doctoral level. Doctoral candidates also must pass three exams in order to earn the degree. The exams include a comprehensive exam, doctoral proposal and doctoral defense.

Accreditation

  • Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Contact

Clemson University
School of Computing
100 McAdams Hall
Clemson, SC 29634
Phone: (864) 656-3444
Email: etkraem@clemson.edu
Website: http://www.clemson.edu/ces/computing/current/Programs%20of%20Study%20.html

Coastal Carolina University

College of Science

Founded 60 years ago as a junior college, Coastal Carolina University became an independent university in 1993 and has grown into a respected institution offering bachelor’s programs in 67 fields, eight master’s-level programs and one doctoral program to nearly 9,500 students each year. The Department of Computer Science and Information Systems under the direction of the university’s College of Science seeks to educate students on the latest computational curricula while providing practical training designed to prepare students for real-world careers. Students looking for accredited computer science degree programs in South Carolina will find a bachelor’s and minor program at Coastal Carolina University.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

For students interested in careers related to computer science, Coastal Carolina University offers an in-depth program of study housed within its Department of Computer Science and Information Systems. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program is designed for anyone who’s interested in pursuing careers that rely heavily on computational functions. As an undergraduate program, the B.S. degree comprises three areas of focus: foundational courses, core courses and major-specific courses. Every student enrolled in an undergraduate program at Coastal Carolina University must meet the core requirements common to all majors at the school, but foundational and major-specific courses will vary according to degree. For example, foundational courses for computer science focus primarily on advanced math and science courses. Students must complete at least 120 credit hours to earn the degree. Coastal Carolina University also offers an Internship Education experienced designed for students who have completed at least one year of study.

Minor in Computer Science

Because computer science blends so well with other disciplines in today’s top industries, some students may choose to forgo a traditional major in the field and instead choose to enroll in a minor program that complements a separate major. At Coastal Carolina University, students can choose to minor in computer science in order to enhance their undergraduate experience and add to their resumes specific computational competencies. Students do not need to be enrolled in a related field to take advantage of Coastal Carolina’s computer science minor program. The minor program requires 24 credit hours and covers a handful of specific courses on algorithms, computer programming and data structures. Students can also customize their minor degree program by choosing any computer science course above the 300-level for three credits. In order to be awarded a computer science minor, students must pass all required classes with a grade of C or better.

Accreditation

  • Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Contact

Coastal Carolina University
Department of Computer Science and Information Systems
301 Allied Drive
Conway, SC 29526
Phone: (843) 349-2116
Email: wjones@coastal.edu
Website: http://cs.coastal.edu/index.php/academics/undergraduate-programs

College of Charleston

School of Sciences and Mathematics

As one of the oldest universities in the United States, the College of Charleston enjoys a rich history filled with academic excellence and cultural tradition that dates back to its founding in 1770. Today, the school offers 62 degree programs to more than 11,000 students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and ranks 12th in the nation according to U.S. News and World Report’s list of the best regional institutions. Students interested in computer science will find a stimulating and unique program that combines 21st century ideals with traditional academia offered by the university’s School of Sciences and Mathematics.

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

The College of Charleston’s Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science is designed to give students greater flexibility when it comes to choosing a course of study. Though fully grounded in the technical competencies of the field of computer science, the B.A. program allows students to take electives outside of the department in order to provide them with a broader college education in various disciplines. The program offers a wide range of courses covering topics such as concepts in programming languages, software engineering and database implementation. The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science program requires a total of 47 credit hours specific to the major and divided as follows: nine required computer science core classes, three computer science electives, three math courses and a public speaking course. In order to earn the bachelor’s degree, students also will need to fulfill all undergraduate requirements for the university in terms of general education courses and minor requirements.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

For students interested in accredited computer science degree programs in South Carolina that focus on a more traditional route, the College of Charleston offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that provides students with a strong combination of theory and practical application. The B.S. program is designed to prepare students for work as professional computer scientists in a wide range of fields, but those who plan to enter graduate study upon completing the undergraduate program will find the B.S. curriculum particularly useful for a graduate career. Primary objectives for the program include an ability to utilize modern and relevant computer science functions and technology, an understanding of the concepts of computer science and how they relate to modern life, an appreciate for self-study, and the ability to communicate effectively while respecting ethical concerns. In addition to all general education requirements, students will complete at least 76 credit hours within the computer science curriculum.

Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences

Graduate students have several options when it comes to pursuing a master’s degree in computer science at the College of Charleston. In conjunction with South Carolina’s military school The Citadel and the Graduate School of the University of South Carolina, Charleston, the College of Charleston offers a Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences designed to prepare students for professional careers in one of four distinct focus areas: cyber security, computer science, information systems and software engineering. Students may choose one of these areas as the focus of their graduate studies. The master’s program requires 33 credit hours, and students have the option to study full-time by taking one course per night per week due to the flexibility in course offerings of the university. Full-time students typically complete the degree within two years while part-time students usually finish within three years.

Accreditation

  • Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Contact

College of Charleston
Department of Computer Science
66 George Street
Charleston, SC 29424
Phone: (843)953-6905
Email: CSInfo@cofc.edu
Website: http://compsci.cofc.edu/

South Carolina State University

College of Science, Mathematics, Engineering & Technology

Founded in 1896, South Carolina State University enjoys a long-standing history as the state’s only historically black college and university or HBCU, and the school continues to deliver a quality education to nearly 3,300 students each year. Forbes magazine recognizes South Carolina State University as an exclusive HBCU for research, and U.S. News and World Report ranks the school among the top ten HBCUs in the nation. Students looking for accredited computer science degree programs in South Carolina will find an in-depth course of study within the university’s College of Science, Mathematics, Engineering & Technology as the university continues to promote technologically advanced careers.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The military outfit at South Carolina State University boasts a solid national reputation, and the science degrees offered here will help students pursue both military and private sector occupations. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program offered by South Carolina State University is designed for students who hope to pursue careers related to technology. In order to complete the program, students need 125 credit hours divided into core computer science courses, general education requirements and electives. Courses within the computer science curriculum cover a variety of subjects including algorithm analysis, computer logic and computer networks. Students are free to choose their electives; however, the electives should come from a list of approved courses provided by the university. These electives will help enhance students’ education and future career portfolios. For 30 additional credits, students may also enroll in a dual program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science.

Accreditations

  • Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) — ON PROBATION AS OF 2014

Contact

South Carolina State University
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
300 College Street NE
Orangeburg, SC 29117
Phone: (803) 536-7120
Email: jkeller3@scsu.edu
Website

Thanks in large part to rapidly developing technology, people with computer science degrees will enjoy steady career opportunities over the next decade regardless of the position or company that they pursue. Each of the schools outlined above boasts a solid reputation for offering accredited computer science degree programs in South Carolina that will help the next generation of computer professionals succeed in the industry.