Clemson University – College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Sciences

Overview

Clemson University’s College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Sciences is one of the premier engineering programs in the Southeast. Located in Clemson, South Carolina, the college offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university’s engineering school is known for its focus on innovation, sustainability, and hands-on learning. With strong research programs in areas such as automotive engineering, environmental sustainability, and bioengineering, Clemson prepares students to be leaders in their respective fields. Clemson also has a renowned automotive engineering program, driven by its strong partnership with BMW, Michelin, and other industry giants.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #64 for undergraduate engineering programs.
• Number of Students: 5,200+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Bioengineering, and Automotive Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 49%
• Average SAT Score: 1250–1440
• Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• John P. Young – Former President of Duke Energy.
• David Beasley – Executive Director of the World Food Programme and former Governor of South Carolina.
• Dabo Swinney – Head Coach of Clemson Football, though not an engineer, a highly influential alumnus.
• Lucius Burch – Conservationist and lawyer who helped preserve wilderness areas.
• Michael J. Bell – Vice President of Microsoft’s New Devices Division.

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University of South Carolina – College of Engineering and Computing

Overview

The University of South Carolina (UofSC) offers a wide range of engineering programs through its College of Engineering and Computing, located in Columbia. UofSC is particularly known for its research programs in areas like energy, aerospace, and biomedical engineering. The school offers robust internship and co-op programs, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with prominent local and national companies. The university is home to the McNair Center for Aerospace Innovation and Research, which collaborates with Boeing and other aerospace companies, making UofSC a major player in aerospace engineering.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #108 for undergraduate engineering programs.
• Number of Students: 3,800+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Aerospace, Biomedical, Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 68%
• Average SAT Score: 1180–1360
• Average GRE Score: 158 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• Rita Cosby – Emmy-winning television news anchor (Journalism graduate, but notable alumna).
• Robert D. McNair – Founder of the Houston Texans and namesake of the McNair Center.
• Lindsey Graham – U.S. Senator from South Carolina.
• Alex English – NBA Hall of Famer and South Carolina’s all-time leading basketball scorer.
• Cathy Smith – CFO of Target, providing strong leadership in corporate finance.

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The Citadel – The Military College of South Carolina

Overview

The Citadel, located in Charleston, is known for its discipline-based education and leadership training, making it one of the most unique engineering programs in the country. The Citadel School of Engineering offers programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering, all built on a foundation of military-style leadership training. While a majority of the students at The Citadel are part of the Corps of Cadets, civilian students also attend its evening programs. The college places a strong emphasis on real-world problem-solving and ethical leadership, preparing students to lead in fields like civil infrastructure and defense technologies.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #12 for undergraduate engineering programs (non-doctorate).
• Number of Students: 600+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Average SAT Score: 1100–1300
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• James B. Edwards – Former Governor of South Carolina and U.S. Secretary of Energy.
• William O. Darby – Founder of Darby’s Rangers, which became the U.S. Army Rangers.
• Pat Conroy – Best-selling author (The Great Santini and The Lords of Discipline).
• William Schachte – U.S. Navy admiral and legal scholar.
• Ernest F. Hollings – Long-serving U.S. Senator from South Carolina.

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Coastal Carolina University – Gupta College of Science, Department of Engineering and Applied Science

Overview

Coastal Carolina University (CCU), located in Conway, offers a growing engineering program through its Gupta College of Science. While smaller than other institutions on this list, CCU offers specialized programs in applied science and engineering, focusing on fields like environmental engineering and sustainability. CCU’s close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provides students with opportunities for research in coastal engineering, environmental impact studies, and sustainability projects. CCU is building its engineering reputation by offering practical, hands-on learning experiences and focusing on regional and environmental challenges.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): Not ranked nationally for engineering.
• Number of Students: Approximately 1,200 in STEM-related programs.
• Degrees Offered: B.S. in Engineering Science, Coastal Marine, and Environmental Systems Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Average SAT Score: 1100–1260
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• Michael Kelly – Professional football player, currently in the NFL.
• Dustin Johnson – Professional golfer and multiple major championship winner.
• Josh Norman – NFL cornerback.
• Chantelle Zino – Marine biologist and environmental advocate.
• Darryl LeClair – Business executive and founder of Echelon Development.