SC State launches 4 new STEM degrees to meet market demands
The new offerings are three undergraduate engineering degrees and a graduate degree in cybersecurity.
ORANGEBURG, S.C. — Strengthening a commitment to matching the talents of students with the demands of business and industry, South Carolina State University has launched four new degree programs in STEM-related fields.
The new programs include three undergraduate degrees and a graduate degree rooted in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM):
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in computer engineering.
- BS in electrical engineering.
- BS in mechanical engineering.
- Master of Science (MS) in cybersecurity.
All four programs will accept students in the Spring 2026 semester.
“These new programs represent a major leap forward in SC State’s mission to educate and empower the next generation of innovators, engineers, and technology leaders,” SC State President Alexander Conyers said. “From cybersecurity to mechanical and electrical engineering, these degrees directly respond to the workforce needs of South Carolina and the nation.
“We are strengthening our capacity to train problem solvers who will secure our energy grids, design advanced systems, and protect the data that drive our economy,” Conyers said.
Each program has been fully approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, solidifying SC State’s position as a statewide leader in producing STEM graduates prepared to meet the needs of modern industry, defense, and digital infrastructure.
Housed within the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Transportation (STEM-T College), the new programs are designed to prepare graduates with the technical expertise, analytical skills, and applied research experience needed to compete in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.
Engineering the future: three new undergraduate programs
The new undergraduate programs in computer engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering will expand the college’s longstanding legacy in producing diverse and talented engineers. These programs are structured to integrate hands-on laboratory work, computational design, and research experiences that mirror real-world engineering environments.
The establishment of these programs is made possible through the generous support of Dominion Energy, whose investment underscores a shared commitment to developing a diverse and highly skilled engineering workforce for South Carolina and beyond. Dominion’s partnership with SC State strengthens pathways for students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in energy, innovation, and advanced technology.
The Electrical Engineering Program builds on the university’s nationally recognized foundation in electronics and circuit design, with coursework emphasizing renewable energy systems, embedded technologies, and sustainable innovation.
The Computer Engineering Program merges computer science and electrical design, preparing students to develop hardware and software systems that power artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced computing.
The Mechanical Engineering Program focuses on design, manufacturing, and systems integration, equipping graduates to pursue careers in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and robotics industries.
“The addition of these engineering programs aligns with our strategic vision to expand degree offerings that directly address South Carolina’s workforce priorities,” said Dr. Frederick Evans, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Each of these programs represents a critical pipeline for industries seeking well-prepared, innovative, and diverse engineering talent
“Dominion Energy’s investment further amplifies our impact, helping us cultivate future engineers who will drive progress and sustainability across every sector,” Evans said.
The new engineering programs join SC State’s existing undergraduate degrees in:
- Nuclear engineering.
- Civil engineering.
- Mechatronics engineering.
- Industrial engineering.
The civil engineering degree includes an option in fire protection engineering.
Now, all of SC State’s engineering disciplines are offered with full engineering degrees, while the STEM-T College continues to offer bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering technology and electrical engineering technology.
MS in cybersecurity: advancing digital defense and innovation
Offered 100 percent online, the MS in Cybersecurity Program prepares professionals to secure data, systems, and networks across sectors. Students can specialize in network defense, digital forensics, or cyber physical systems security, culminating in a capstone project that addresses real-world cybersecurity challenges.
The program is supported by a Battelle Savannah River Alliance grant, which provides $405,000 to recruit additional faculty experts in cybersecurity, computer science, and data science.
“Cybersecurity impacts every facet of our modern lives, from national defense to the technologies we use every day,” said Dr. Stanley Ihekweazu, dean of the STEM-T college. “Our new master’s program gives students the advanced technical skills, ethical grounding, and problem-solving mindset required to protect digital infrastructure at every level.
“Together with our new engineering programs, we are creating an ecosystem of innovation that positions SC State as a leading producer of minority talent in STEM and technology,” Ihekweazu said.
SC State is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency Center. The university offers:
- A Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity
- A Bachelor of Science in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity
- A minor in cybersecurity for all majors at the university.
Driving innovation and opportunity
Collectively, these new programs reflect S.C. State University’s strategic priority to modernize academic offerings, expand graduate education, and realign its curriculum with emerging workforce demands. By bridging traditional engineering with cutting-edge technology fields, the university continues to play a vital role in South Carolina’s economic development and national competitiveness.
“We are preparing our students not just for today’s jobs, but for tomorrow’s opportunities,” Conyers said. “These new programs are a testament to S.C. State’s resilience, vision, and commitment to excellence in STEM education. They exemplify our Bulldog tenacity, preparing graduates who will lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact on the world.”
To apply to SC State, visit https://apply.scsu.edu/apply/ . For more about SC State’s STEM degree programs, visit www.scsu.edu/academics.