Intelligence & Security Operations at Coastal Carolina University

Conway, SC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Intelligence, Command Control and Information Operations
33 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
34
Optimistic
33
Base Case
32
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,150/yr (-38% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (19,700 openings/yr)
ROI 10.9x earnings multiple (4.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #7 of 7 Intelligence programs

Program Analysis

This unique program positions you in a highly specialized field, but its value is significantly shaped by the regional labor market. While you'll gain valuable skills in intelligence gathering and operational support, the opportunities immediately surrounding Conway, SC, often fall within local government, law enforcement, or smaller regional contractors. These roles, while critical, are typically tied to public sector pay scales or localized defense budgets, which may not match salaries found in major intelligence hubs or tech-forward defense corridors. Furthermore, the "information operations" aspect of your training increasingly intersects with AI capabilities. Many tasks involving data synthesis, pattern recognition, and preliminary analysis are becoming highly susceptible to automation. This means your career path will likely demand a focus on interpreting AI-generated insights, managing human-AI teams, or developing the strategic judgment that AI cannot replicate. To maximize your prospects, actively seek out internships that immerse you in these advanced applications and be prepared to explore opportunities in larger metropolitan areas or specialized federal centers.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Intelligence & Security Operations graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $511K $509K $476K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.0x 10.9x 10.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.3x 4.3x 4.0x
Probability of Field Employment 51% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 34 33 32

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$46,560
Out-of-state: $118,512 (4.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$54,968
-18% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
7.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$49,288
40% growth from Year 1

About Coastal Carolina University

Coastal Carolina University has a 80% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 9,909 students in Conway, SC.

See all programs and financial aid at Coastal Carolina University →

Top Career Paths

First-line supervisors of police and detectives $105,980/yr
Detectives and criminal investigators $93,580/yr
Cartographers and photogrammetrists $78,380/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 33/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Intelligence & Security Operations at Coastal Carolina University?
At 33/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Intelligence & Security Operations programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Intelligence & Security Operations at Coastal Carolina University?
The 46% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Coastal Carolina University a good choice for Intelligence & Security Operations despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Coastal Carolina University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →