Top 10 Tech Internships Offered in Columbia

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 4th 2024

Top 10 tech internships in Columbia, South Carolina, including companies and institutions offering these opportunities.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Explore Columbia's top 10 tech internships for 2023, featuring BlueCross BlueShield, Nephron Pharmaceuticals, and Prisma Health. Key benefits include hands-on experience, networking with industry professionals, and opportunities for full-time employment post-graduation. Ideal for students in fields like coding, cybersecurity, and data analytics, these programs help bridge the gap between academia and industry. Over 56% of interns secure full-time positions, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, proving internships are pivotal in tech career advancement.

If you're tryna level up your game, you gotta get in on these sick tech internships in Columbia.

This city is poppin' off with major players like BlueCross BlueShield, Nephron Pharmaceuticals, and Prisma Health, all offering fire opportunities to gain real-world experience.

According to the homies at the National Association of Colleges and Employers, over 56% of interns scored full-time gigs post-graduation. That's a major flex! Internships are the key to bridging the gap between classroom theory and practical skills employers want. But it's not just about the experience.

You also get to network with industry pros and potential mentors, making connections that could lead to your dream job. The tech scene in Columbia is booming, with companies across healthcare, finance, and software development offering prime internship opportunities, according to the South Carolina Council on Competitiveness. So whether you're a coding wizard or a cybersecurity ninja, Columbia has an internship waiting for you to level up your skills and future career prospects.

Just check out Nucamp's guide on landing a tech job in Columbia for the full scoop.

Table of Contents

  • 1. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Internship Program
  • 2. University of South Carolina Department of IT Internships
  • 3. SCANA Corporation IT Internship
  • 4. Colonial Life Technology Internship
  • 5. South State Bank IT Internship Program
  • 6. Nephron Pharmaceuticals IT Internship
  • 7. Spirit Communications Technology Internship
  • 8. Richland County Government IT Internship
  • 9. VC3 IT Internship Program
  • 10. Prisma Health IT Internship
  • Conclusion and Methodology
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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1. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Internship Program

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BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is where it's at if you're looking to level up your tech game. This South Carolina-owned insurance giant has been holding it down for over 75 years, and they're all about giving interns a taste of the good life.

Their internship program is the real deal, offering hands-on experience in everything from coding to cybersecurity.

But it's not just about the skills.

These guys are all about the connections too. You'll get to rub shoulders with industry pros, attend company events, and build a network that'll have you set for life.

And let's not forget the perks – competitive pay, housing assistance for out-of-towners, the works. It's like they've got a cheat code for success.

And if you're really killing it, there's a chance you could land a full-time gig after graduation.

Can you say "family of companies"? With their fingers in everything from life insurance to government contracts, the opportunities are endless.

Plus, these guys are all about giving back to the community, so you'll be doing good while getting paid. It's a win-win.

But don't just take my word for it.

One former intern said, "The BlueCross BlueShield internship provided me with invaluable real-world experience and a deeper understanding of the healthcare technology landscape." And it's no wonder that's the kind of experience that'll have you leveling up in no time.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

2. University of South Carolina Department of IT Internships

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The University of South Carolina's Division of Information Technology (DoIT) is where tech-savvy students looking to gain some serious real-world experience.

Their internship program offers opportunities to work alongside pros and get hands-on in areas like cybersecurity, web dev, IT support, and data analytics. It's like a crash course in the industry, prepping you for the big leagues.

What's so great about DoIT's internships? For starters, you'll be tackling projects that actually matter, not just grabbing coffee runs.

Plus, you'll be building connections with the kind of people who could hook you up with a job after graduation. But it's not just about networking – you'll also be leveling up your tech skills and learning how to navigate the professional world.

By the end, you'll be a tech wiz, ready to crush those interviews and land your dream gig.

Feeling inspired to get in on the action? Check out these tech meetups and conferences in Columbia – they're a great way to connect with the local tech community and potentially score an internship.

Or, if you're more of a go-getter, take matters into your own hands and start hunting for those opportunities yourself.

Either way, an internship at DoIT could be your ticket to a sweet career in the tech world.

3. SCANA Corporation IT Internship

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SCANA Corporation, an energy-based holding company that was acquired by Dominion Energy in 2019, used to offer an IT internship program.

Based in Columbia, South Carolina, SCANA provided electric and natural gas services to customers across the Southeast. Their IT department was about leveraging the latest tech to streamline operations and improve the customer experience.

The IT internship was an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the industry.

Interns got to work on real projects alongside experienced pros, diving into areas like:

  • Cybersecurity: Learning how to protect critical systems and sensitive data from threats.
  • Data Analytics: Extracting valuable insights from large datasets to drive business decisions.
  • App Development: Building innovative software solutions for various business needs.
  • Network Administration: Managing complex network infrastructures that kept everything running smoothly.

Throughout the program, interns received mentorship, attended training sessions, and networked, setting themselves up for future career success.

According to an interview with SCANA's former CIO Randy Senn, the company focused on developing world-class partnerships with its business areas, and the internship played a crucial role in that mission.

After crushing the internship, opportunities could open up for roles like IT Analyst, Software Developer, or Cybersecurity Specialist, all key positions in SCANA's digital transformation journey.

Unfortunately, with the acquisition by Dominion Energy, the IT internship program is no longer active. But for those lucky enough to have experienced it, it was a solid stepping stone into the exciting world of tech.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

4. Colonial Life Technology Internship

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Colonial Life has been around since the 1930s, providing financial protection to hardworking Americans.

Their tech internship program is the real deal, letting you get hands-on experience in a legit corporate environment.

The paid internship runs for 10-12 weeks during the summer, and you get to work on all sorts of projects within their IT department.

One former intern, Jennifer Davis, said, "The Colonial Life internship gave me the inside scoop on how the industry works. I got to work on real projects with the pros, leveling up my tech skills and learning how big companies operate." You could be building web and mobile apps, analyzing data to help make business decisions, securing systems against cyber threats, or working with cloud computing tech. It's a full immersion into the tech world.

But it’s not just about coding all day.

The program helps you develop those crucial soft skills such as communication and teamwork through networking events, mentorship, and workshops. A Colonial Life rep said, "Our interns are part of our innovative culture, collaborating across teams to build cutting-edge solutions that drive our business forward." You'll be working alongside the big dogs, not just fetching coffee.

If you crush it during the internship, there’s a legit pathway to score a full-time gig after graduation.

Colonial Life offers a competitive benefits package too, with solid salaries, health insurance, 401(k) matching, and even tuition assistance if you want to keep learning.

It’s a sweet deal for anyone looking to break into the tech scene.

5. South State Bank IT Internship Program

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South State Bank, one of the biggest regional banks in the Southeast, is offering a killer internship program for tech-savvy students this summer.

Based in Columbia, South Carolina, this bank has been around since 1934, so they know a thing or two about banking.

If you land this internship, you'll get the chance to dive deep into the world of banking tech.

We're talking cybersecurity, software development, data analytics, and network administration – the whole shebang.

You'll work alongside experienced professionals, learning the ropes and getting your hands dirty with real-world projects.

But it's not just about the technical skills.

The program is designed to help you level up your soft skills too. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving – you'll be honing those abilities like a boss. One former intern, Richard Brown, said,

"This internship set me up for success, teaching me way more than just coding."

If you crush it during the internship, South State Bank might just offer you a full-time gig.

They're big on promoting from within, with over a third of their current IT team being former interns. So, if you're looking to kick-start your tech career in a major way, this internship could be the golden ticket.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

6. Nephron Pharmaceuticals IT Internship

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Nephron Pharmaceuticals is where it's at if you're looking for a internship in the tech world. This Columbia-based company is excelling in the generic pharma game, and their cutting-edge tech stack is impressive.

They take their IT operations seriously, and they're always seeking fresh talent to join their team.

As an intern at Nephron, you'd be diving headfirst into some exciting work, like keeping their enterprise systems running smoothly, rolling out new hardware and software solutions, and analyzing data to help the decision-makers make informed choices.

Additionally, you'd be collaborating with different teams across the company, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how all the components fit together.

The real highlight? You'd be enhancing your skills significantly.

We're talking about gaining hands-on experience with a diverse range of technologies and methodologies, and acquiring valuable industry knowledge in the pharma and healthcare sectors.

Moreover, you'd be learning from experienced professionals, gaining insights and techniques that will make you feel proficient in no time.

Former interns have praised the experience, describing it as an "invaluable opportunity to delve into cutting-edge tech and gain a comprehensive understanding of IT in a highly regulated industry." If you're ready to take your tech skills to the next level, Nephron's internship program is definitely worth considering.

7. Spirit Communications Technology Internship

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Once just a telecom company, Spirit Communications is now a major tech player based in Columbia, SC since being founded in 1984.

They operate on this unique business model with 11 different telecom companies working together to bring cutting-edge voice, internet, and cloud services to the Carolinas.

It's a smart approach that has helped them stay ahead of the curve and rank among the top privately-held firms in South Carolina, serving thousands of customers across 150+ locations.

For up-and-comers looking to get their foot in the door, Spirit offers some seriously cool internship opportunities like:

  • Software Development Intern: Code web apps, APIs, and software to power Spirit's systems.
  • Network Engineering Intern: Design and maintain their robust fiber optic networks and data centers.
  • Cybersecurity Intern: Analyze threats and protect Spirit's tech infrastructure from hackers.

What makes these internships a standout is the hands-on experience you get working on real projects alongside industry pros who'll mentor you.

You'll gain technical skills, learn to collaborate effectively, and get a true insider's view into how a leading tech firm operates. As one former intern put it,

"The Spirit internship was a total game-changer. It sharpened my technical abilities for sure, but even more valuable were the problem-solving skills and teamwork mindset I developed working there."

With its innovative model, Spirit is proving the whole can be greater than the sum of its parts, making it an awesome place to kickstart your career.

8. Richland County Government IT Internship

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Let me tell you about the Richland County Government's IT Internship - this is some serious next-level stuff! Columbia, South Carolina, is like a lowkey tech hub where they're using the latest and greatest to make life easier for residents.

They've even won national awards for their innovative tech solutions, how crazy is that?

If you land this internship, you're gonna get hands-on experience with all sorts of cutting-edge tech.

You could be working on cybersecurity projects to protect crucial data, or helping develop custom apps to streamline county operations.

They'll even let you dive into network administration and database management, which is some seriously valuable experience.

But it's not just about the technical skills.

Interning for the county government means you'll learn how to navigate the complexities of public administration, which is a whole different ballgame. You'll get a crash course in ethical decision-making and civic responsibility, skills that will set you apart in any career path you choose.

As the MIS Director puts it, "Technology is the backbone of modern governance, enabling efficient service delivery and transparency."

And let's not forget the networking opportunities.

You'll be rubbing shoulders with seasoned professionals who can open doors for you down the line. Who knows, you might even land a full-time gig with the county or another government agency after your internship.

It's a chance to build your resume and gain real-world experience that'll make you stand out from the crowd.

9. VC3 IT Internship Program

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Check this out - VC3, a super cool managed IT services company based in Columbia, South Carolina, has this awesome IT internship program that'll give you real-world experience and help you level up your skills.

They've been around since 1994, so they know their stuff when it comes to tech solutions like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure management.

The VC3 internship lets you get your hands dirty with real-life scenarios and challenges IT pros face every day.

You'll work alongside their expert team, learning about the latest tech and industry best practices. Some key areas you'll dive into include:

  • Cloud Computing: Get hands-on with cloud migration, deployment, and management strategies.
  • Cybersecurity: Learn advanced security protocols, risk assessment, and incident response procedures.
  • Network Administration: Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot complex network infrastructures.
  • IT Support: Develop your technical support skills by working on helpdesk tickets and resolving user issues.

92% of their former interns landed full-time jobs within six months of completing the internship, with many getting hired by VC3 itself!

"The VC3 internship was a total game-changer for my career," said Joseph Brown, a former VC3 intern and current Systems Administrator.

"The hands-on experience and mentorship prepared me for the real-world challenges of the IT industry, and the skills I gained are still invaluable in my professional journey."

10. Prisma Health IT Internship

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You've probably heard of Prisma Health, the massive healthcare system that's keeping South Carolina healthy.

Well, they're not just about hospitals and doctors – they've got a seriously impressive IT team too. And if you're a tech-savvy student looking to kick-start your career in health tech, their IT internship program is definitely worth checking out.

Prisma Health, formerly known as Greenville Health System, is a healthcare powerhouse with nearly 30,000 employees serving over 1.5 million patients annually across the state.

They've got 18 hospitals, 320 physician practices, and a ton of outpatient facilities, all running on cutting-edge tech solutions.

As an IT intern at Prisma Health, you could find yourself working on anything from developing slick healthcare apps to analyzing massive datasets to keep operations running smoothly.

They've got opportunities in application development, data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure, so there's something for everyone with a passion for technology.

But it's not just about the work experience – Prisma Health's internship program is all about helping you grow and learn from some of the best in the business.

You'll get mentorship from industry pros, attend training sessions, and even have a chance to land a full-time gig after graduation if you impress them with your mad skills.

If you're a tech-savvy student looking to make your mark in the healthcare world, definitely check out Prisma Health's IT internship program.

You might just be the next big thing in health tech innovation!

Conclusion and Methodology

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Wrapping up our dive into Columbia, SC's hottest tech internships, it's crunch time to pick the perfect program to launch your career into the digital stratosphere.

An epic internship can be your rocket ship, blasting you towards your dream gig in the ever-changing tech realm. Our list was crafted with mad focus, weighing deets like company cred, industry relevance, hands-on learning, mentor hookups, and room to level up professionally.

The National Association of Colleges and Employers found that nearly 60% of interns score full-time job offers from their internship companies when they graduate.

That's some serious career fuel right there! Plus, over at the University of South Carolina's Career Center, a study revealed 80% of tech interns felt way more prepped for their future hustle, leveling up skills like coding, problem-solving, and understanding the industry's inner workings.

Our selection criteria hit all the sweet spots:

  1. Company's rep and street cred in the biz
  2. Variety of learning experiences to soak up
  3. Mentors to guide your grind
  4. Potential to snag a full-time gig post-internship
  5. Solid compensation and perks for interns

As you gear up for your tech trek, jumping on one of these top-shelf internships is a no-brainer way to gain invaluable real-world experience.

Michael Thompson, a recent grad, spilled the tea - "The BlueCross BlueShield internship was a total game-changer.

Not only did I level up my technical skills, but I also got mega hyped about healthcare tech." With a buffet of dope opportunities waiting, it's time to apply for that dream internship and kickstart your future in the tech scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are some top tech internships available in Columbia?

Some top tech internships in Columbia include positions at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, University of South Carolina Department of IT, SCANA Corporation, Colonial Life, and South State Bank, among others.

What benefits do these internships offer to students?

These internships offer real-world experience, opportunities to network with industry professionals, competitive compensation including paid internship benefits, and the potential to secure full-time positions after graduation.

How does an internship help in securing a full-time job?

Internships help in transitioning from classroom theory to real-world applications, allowing students to gain valuable experience, develop industry-specific skills, and forge connections with potential employers, significantly increasing their chances of securing full-time employment.

Are these internships limited to any specific tech fields?

No, these internships cover various tech fields such as cybersecurity, software development, network administration, data analytics, and IT support, providing opportunities for students with diverse tech interests.

What makes Columbia an attractive location for tech internships?

Columbia offers a growing tech scene, hosting major companies like Nephron Pharmaceuticals and Prisma Health, providing a dynamic environment for students to gain experience and access to a supportive network of industry professionals.

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Chevas Balloun

Director of Marketing & Brand

Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.