News Summary

The University of South Carolina Aiken has announced plans to introduce a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering starting in Fall 2026. The program aims to address the shortage of electrical engineers in the Central Savannah River Area, aligning with local industry needs and workforce development efforts. With a tailored curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities, the BSEE program anticipates early enrollment, creating opportunities for students to engage in significant projects, including those at the Savannah River National Laboratory.

Aiken, SC – The University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) has announced plans to introduce a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) beginning in Fall 2026. This new degree program aims to prepare students for careers in designing, building, testing, and maintaining electrical and electronic systems, addressing the pressing demand for electrical engineers in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).

The development of the BSEE program was informed by feedback from local industry stakeholders highlighting the need for more engineers in the regional workforce. This initiative aligns with USC Aiken’s commitment to bolster local economic growth and support workforce development efforts, ensuring that students are equipped with the necessary skills to meet industry needs.

Scott McKay, Dean of the College of Sciences and Engineering, remarked on the significant demand for skilled engineers in the Aiken and CSRA regions, reinforcing the necessity of launching this program. The BSEE will supplement existing engineering programs at USC Aiken, including mechanical, process, and software engineering.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Students interested in pursuing the BSEE can begin taking prerequisite courses as early as Fall 2025, making it possible to complete the required coursework before the program officially starts. This structure is designed to help students transition smoothly into the degree program.

The curriculum for the BSEE program is tailored to meet current industry standards and was crafted with input from an engineering advisory board composed of regional engineering professionals. Key areas of focus will include critical infrastructure components such as power systems, electronics, and control systems, which are essential for the modern technological landscape.

Enrollment Projections and Faculty Expansion

Initial projections estimate that 15 students will enroll in the BSEE program during its inaugural year. This number is expected to grow significantly, with an anticipated enrollment of up to 60 students by the fifth year. To accommodate this growth, USC Aiken plans to hire three additional faculty members over the next five years, ensuring that the program maintains high educational standards and offers adequate support to students.

Research and Collaboration Opportunities

Students enrolled in the BSEE program will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and the chance to collaborate on projects at the new Savannah River National Laboratory’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative building, which is set to open this summer. This $50 million, 60,000 square foot facility will provide students with exposure to advanced equipment and the opportunity to work alongside experienced scientists and engineers, enhancing their educational experience.

Additionally, some projects may require national security clearance, offering students a unique advantage in the job market post-graduation. USC Aiken emphasizes its dedication to meeting the changing needs of regional employers and enhancing professional opportunities for its students.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Economic Growth

The establishment of the BSEE program at USC Aiken marks a significant step towards fostering economic growth and preparing local students for in-demand technical careers. As the program develops, it will not only fulfill the workforce needs of the CSRA but also enhance the educational landscape of the university, ultimately benefiting both students and the region as a whole.

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