Department of Engineering


Learn to think differently when you study engineering at the College of Charleston.

If you’re looking to solve complex problems, increase efficiencies and improve systems, you’ve come to the right place. The Department of Engineering at the College of Charleston is one-of-a-kind.

Charleston, S.C.  

There’s no place better than Charleston, S.C. When you study here, you’ll be surrounded by companies like Google, Boeing, Bosch, Mercedes-Benz Vanz, Volvo, Cummins, Scientific Research Corporation, the Naval Information Warfare Center and many, many others.  

The state’s only comprehensive academic health sciences center is just a short walk from campus. We’re talking about the Medical University of South Carolina.  

And, because aerospace, automotive, logistics, software/IT, medical and hospitality and tourism jobs dominate the region, you’ll have so many opportunities for internships and co-ops without leaving town.

A Global Perspective  

As the world becomes more complex, engineers must work with diverse teams, understand the impact of global issues and be sensitive to other cultures.  

Did you know the College has an entire school dedicated to the study of languages, cultures and world affairs?The College of Charleston’s general education courses allow you to take full advantage of these courses, and many others, that focus on tackling real-world international challenges. 

You’ll understand how the social, political, historical and economic factors may impact a project. 

Learn Skills Employers Want 

Developing critical technical skills and industry knowledge is important. Most engineering programs, including the ones at the College, will prepare you to join the workforce. What sets us apart is that we also equip you with other, highly valued skills like:

  • communication and public speaking,  
  • interpersonal communication,  
  • problem solving and  
  • critical thinking.  

Academic Programs


Choose to study electrical engineering, software engineering or systems engineering. Add a minor in digital manufacturing technology.
  • Electrical Engineering

    Electrical Engineers understand complex electrical control systems used in state-of-the-art ground, air and underwater vehicles. The College of Charleston consulted with industry leaders to create an impactful electrical engineering program. 

    Because you’ll take courses in a range of disciplines, you’ll have a competitive advantage when you enter the job market.  

  • Systems Engineering

    An engineered system is a combination of components that work together to collectively perform a useful function.  

    Systems engineers design, create, implement and maintain new and complex systems.  

    If you’re the person in your group of friends who is always organized, making sure everyone knows where they’re going and how to get there in the most efficient way possible, and making sure everyone feels included, then you should consider systems engineering.  

  • Software Engineering

    Software engineers deal with the design, development, testing and maintenance of software applications. Learn how to use the right programming languages, platforms and architectures to develop everything from computer games to network control systems.  

    Location! Location! Location!  

    Charleston is the Silicon Harbor. With more than 500 tech companies in the region, Charleston is the perfect place to study software engineering. You won’t have to travel across the country to find relevant and competitive internships, co-ops and other experiential learning opportunities.  

  • Digital Manufacturing Technology Minor

    Automation is being integrated everywhere. That's why we developed the digital manufacturing technology minor.  

    And, it's not just for engineering students. It provides an exciting, cutting-edge, hands-on and industry-relevant curriculum to the entire campus community!  

    If you want to work in a world-class manufacturing facility, consider adding this minor. Because this is an emerging area of study, you'll learn the skills you need to be competitive in the workplace.  

    This application-oriented minor is attractive because the mathematics entry requirements are minimal. At the same time, it will prepare you for a new type of career. It's training you for the career of the future.