South Carolina is emerging as a strategic frontier for machine learning driven by massive data center investments and AI infrastructure growth.
- Google has committed $3.3 billion to expand data centers across Berkeley and Dorchester counties.
- Meta announced an $800 million investment in Aiken County for its first South Carolina data center optimized for AI workloads
- QTS Data Centers launched a $1 billion facility in York County
These developments are supported by South Carolina’s revival of nuclear energy projects specifically to meet AI’s massive power demands, creating hundreds of technical roles while establishing the state as a technology hub.
However, a significant talent gap persists as AI adoption across manufacturing, healthcare, and technology sectors outpaces the local supply of trained professionals.
A master’s in machine learning offers the specialized training needed to fill these roles.
2026 Best Schools for Masters in Machine Learning Degrees in South Carolina
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC - Public 4-Year - sc.edu
Master's - Computer Science, M.S.
Concentration: Machine Learning - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Carolina-Columbia provides a campus-based Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Machine Learning, emphasizing practical applications in Big Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence. Ranked highly among public universities, this program offers teaching assistantships for potential full financial support and allows students to pursue additional certificates. It prepares graduates for diverse careers in technology and healthcare, with no entrance exam required as it is not explicitly stated or promoted.
- Concentration in Machine Learning
- High ranking among public universities
- Potential full financial support
- Flexible program options
- Opportunities for teaching assistantships
- Focus on Big Data Analytics
- Artificial Intelligence courses
- Option for additional certificates
- Prepares for diverse career paths
- Campus-based program
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - Public 4-Year - clemson.edu
Master's - Master of Applied Computing
Concentration: AI and machine learning - Campus Based - Visit Website
Clemson University's Master of Applied Computing program is tailored for students without a computer science background, focusing on the AI and machine learning concentration. This campus-based degree includes a core readiness sequence and multiple tracks, such as cybersecurity and data science, emphasizing hands-on learning and innovation. Graduates are prepared for technology careers through rigorous coursework and practical experience. Admissions require a bachelor's degree, with prerequisites for non-computing backgrounds, and no entrance exam is specified as required.
- Campus-based program.
- For non-CS backgrounds.
- Six specialization tracks.
- Includes AI and machine learning.
- Prepares for tech careers.
- Hands-on learning focus.
- Innovation and practical experience.
- Bachelor's degree required.
Clemson University
Master of Applied Computing: Machine Learning Specialization
Clemson, SC | $31,615 | 2 Years
The Master of Applied Computing (MAC) at Clemson University is a 42-credit hour program specifically designed for students without a computer science background who want to gain comprehensive computing expertise, combining 12 credits of foundational coursework through the MSCS Ready program with 30 credits of advanced graduate studies. Students can choose from six specialized tracks, with the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning track offering robust coverage of modern ML techniques including applied data science, deep learning, and advanced machine learning implementation that emphasizes coding algorithms from basic principles. The program typically takes full-time students two academic years plus one summer to complete and targets working professionals and career changers seeking to develop practical, industry-relevant skills that bridge technical computing knowledge with their existing domain expertise... read more.
University of South Carolina Aiken
Master of Computer and Information Science (includes Machine Learning)
Aiken, SC | $17,167.50. | 2 1/2 years
The USCA Master’s in Cybersecurity and Information Technology blends core computing, cybersecurity, and IT disciplines to prepare students for advanced technical and leadership roles. Delivered in-person with flexible full- and part-time enrollment, the 2½-year program features small classes and hands-on work in one of only seven National Labs on a university campus. Students complete rigorous coursework—covering programming, networking, security protocols, risk assessment, and forensics—alongside electives tailored to their chosen concentration. Graduates leave ready for impactful careers in industry, government, or further academic study... read more.
University of South Carolina Beaufort
M.S. Computational Science
Bluffton, SC | $14,120 | 2 Years
The USCB Master of Science in Computational Science equips students with advanced computational and machine learning techniques to tackle real-world problems in the physical, biological, and engineering sciences. Delivered fully online, in a blended format, or face-to-face on the Bluffton and Hilton Head Island campuses, the program admits just 20 students per cohort, ensuring personalized instruction. Core courses cover practical computing, advanced statistics, numerical analysis, data mining, simulation, and high-performance computing, while electives and a capstone (thesis, project, or internship) allow for specialization. Graduates are ready for careers in data science, research, software engineering, and high-performance computing across academia, industry, and government. .. read more.
2026 Lowest Priced Programs in South Carolina
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of South Carolina |
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| Clemson University |
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Where Can Machine Learning Grads Find Jobs in South Carolina?
Data Centers & Cloud Infrastructure – As mentioned Google operates $3.3 billion in data center facilities across Berkeley and Dorchester counties, Meta runs an $800 million AI-optimized data center in Aiken County, and QTS manages a $1 billion facility in York County, where ML roles focus on infrastructure optimization, energy management, and AI workload processing, with most centers employing 100-200 operational staff each.
Enterprise & Healthcare Tech – Charleston hosts companies like RiskSpan (financial analytics with ML capabilities), Omatic Software (nonprofit data integration), and multiple healthcare AI startups, while the Clemson-MUSC AI Hub focuses specifically on biomedical AI research and clinical applications, actively hiring machine learning engineers, data scientists, and research scientists.
Manufacturing & Automotive – Companies like BMW, Volvo, and Boeing leverage AI for production optimization, predictive maintenance, and quality control through Clemson’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing, with specialists using machine learning algorithms to analyze sensor data and optimize manufacturing processes.
Specialized Startups & Consulting – Over 16 AI companies including Sprockets (healthcare AI), Querri (business intelligence), and Hook Security (cybersecurity) across Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia deploy ML in sectors from healthcare to financial services.
Aerospace & Defense – Companies like Lockheed Martin and aerospace research centers use AI for aircraft design optimization, flight performance analysis, and predictive maintenance, with data analysts improving safety and operational efficiency.
Resources for Further Machine Learning Insight & Employment in South Carolina
- Charleston Data Science Jobs | Built In
- AI Jobs – Leading Job Board
- South Carolina AI Companies | F6S
Top Cities in South Carolina for Machine Learning Professionals
Charleston: The most active ML hub with over 1,100 tech companies generating $51.7 billion economic impact, featuring Machine Learning Engineer salaries averaging $165,999 and data science roles growing 169% since 2019. Home to major data centers, fintech companies, and healthcare AI startups driving demand for ML engineers and data scientists.
Greenville: Features 92+ machine learning job openings with average ML Engineer salaries of $98,648, supported by advanced manufacturing partnerships and Clemson’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing focusing on AI-driven production optimization.
Columbia: Growing center with state government AI initiatives, University of South Carolina’s Propel AI program, and approximately 60+ ML-related positions in government, academia, and emerging tech companies.
Aiken: Benefits from Meta’s $800 million AI-optimized data center and proximity to Savannah River National Laboratory, offering opportunities in AI infrastructure and national security applications.
What is the Job Market Like for Machine Learning Professionals in SC?
Recent job postings from South Carolina employers indicate that machine learning engineers are in high demand across diverse industries, from defense contracting to fintech to healthcare. Here’s what employers are seeking and what they’re willing to pay.
Core Technical Skills in High Demand
Programming and Frameworks
Python dominance is evident across all positions, with employers like Booz Allen ($77,500-$176,000), Absentia Technologies ($80,000), Crunchbase ($175,000-$195,000), and General Mills requiring strong Python proficiency. Deep learning frameworks are equally critical – PyTorch and TensorFlow appear in nearly every posting, with Jobot’s generative AI position ($150,000-$300,000) specifically emphasizing both frameworks for text-to-image applications.
Cloud platform expertise commands premium salaries. Booz Allen seeks AWS experience, General Mills requires GCP Vertex AI knowledge, and Avanade ($151,200-$200,450) focuses on Azure AI services. Humana emphasizes cloud deployment capabilities across AWS, Azure, and GCP platforms.
Specialized AI Domains
Computer Vision and Generative AI represent the highest-paying specializations. Absentia Technologies seeks computer vision engineers for satellite and astronomical imaging, while Jobot offers up to $300,000 for generative visual AI expertise. DPR Construction requires experience with Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and agentic workflows.
Natural Language Processing skills are consistently valued, with Booz Allen specifically requesting NLP, LLM, and RAG experience. DataAnnotation ($40/hour contract) focuses on AI chatbot training, requiring JavaScript proficiency alongside Python.
Industry Applications and Crossover Opportunities
Defense and Government Contracting
Booz Allen Hamilton represents the largest government contractor presence, seeking mid-level engineers for national security applications. Their roles require Public Trust clearance and emphasize real-time analysis capabilities. TIAG focuses on FEMA data analytics, requiring travel to Washington DC and emphasizing disaster response applications.
Healthcare and Life Sciences
Humana seeks cognitive AI engineers for healthcare analytics, requiring understanding of medical terminologies and patient data. Purpose Financial ($150,000-$300,000 estimated) applies AI to financial health applications, demonstrating healthcare-fintech convergence.
Manufacturing and Construction
General Mills leads enterprise AI initiatives in consumer goods, requiring 6+ years ML experience and 12+ years overall industry experience. DPR Construction applies AI to construction workflows, seeking agentic AI engineers with 3+ years software development experience.
Educational Requirements and Salary Premiums
Advanced Degree Requirements
Master’s degrees consistently correlate with higher compensation. Avanade explicitly seeks candidates with Master’s or PhD in quantitative fields (computer science, applied mathematics, statistics, machine learning) and offers $151,200-$200,450. Jobot strongly prefers Master’s/PhD from top-tier institutions for their $150,000-$300,000 positions.
General Mills requires advanced degrees in quantitative fields and offers senior-level positions for candidates with advanced education. Humana specifies Bachelor’s minimum but prefers Master’s degrees in computer science or related fields.
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Entry to Mid-Level (3-5 years experience):
- SynergisticIT: $80,000 (junior level)
- Absentia Technologies: $80,000 (with equity)
- Booz Allen: $77,500-$176,000 (wide range based on experience)
Senior Level (5+ years experience):
- Crunchbase: $175,000-$195,000 (4+ years required)
- General Mills: Senior level requiring 6+ ML years, 12+ total experience
- Humana: Senior cognitive AI roles with healthcare domain expertise
Specialist/Generative AI Roles:
- Jobot: $150,000-$300,000 (text-to-image specialization)
- Purpose Financial: AI software engineer with LLM experience
Interdisciplinary Skills and Business Acumen
MLOps and Production Systems
General Mills emphasizes MLOps frameworks, CI/CD pipelines, and production model deployment. Crunchbase requires experience with end-to-end ML solutions in production environments. Booz Allen seeks DevOps tools experience including Docker, Kubernetes, and GitLab CI/CD.
Business Communication and Strategy
Avanade represents the consulting side, requiring strong management consulting experience alongside technical skills. They seek “enterprise architects” who can communicate AI use cases across manufacturing, healthcare, and retail industries.
DPR Construction emphasizes translating business requirements into AI solutions, requiring collaboration with cross-functional teams. Purpose Financial seeks engineers who can impact real customer financial journeys.
Remote Work and Flexibility
Most positions offer hybrid or remote options. DataAnnotation provides fully remote contract work at $40/hour. Absentia Technologies offers remote-first culture with occasional team events. Crunchbase maintains a remote-first policy with competitive benefits.
Regional flexibility varies – some roles like TIAG require travel to Washington DC, while others like Jobot accept candidates from USA or Canada for remote work.
Key Takeaways for Master’s Degree Candidates
Master’s degrees in AI/ML command 20-40% salary premiums over bachelor’s level positions. The highest-paying roles ($175,000+) consistently require advanced degrees and specialized expertise in generative AI, computer vision, or enterprise AI architecture.
Cross-industry mobility is strong – skills transfer well between defense, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing sectors. Technical leadership roles requiring both deep ML knowledge and business acumen offer the highest compensation potential, as demonstrated by Avanade’s architect positions and General Mills’ lead engineering roles.
The South Carolina market shows particular strength in government contracting, healthcare analytics, and emerging applications in construction and manufacturing, providing diverse career paths for ML professionals with advanced degrees.