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Coastal Carolina University

Conway, SC

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Ex Libertate Veritas (Latin)("From Liberty, Truth")

Public university
Type
9,909
Total Students
10,306
Undergrad
523
Graduate
$76M
Endowment
(2024)
$12K
Tuition (In-State)
$30K
Tuition (Out-State)
$14K
Avg Net Price
80%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
6-year
76%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Coastal Carolina University

Experience dynamic growth and a vibrant coastal campus at Coastal Carolina University!

Coastal Carolina University offers a unique and engaging experience for students seeking a blend of academic rigor and a lively coastal environment. What began as a humble junior college in 1954 has blossomed into a thriving public university, known for its rapid expansion, beautiful campus, and strong athletic spirit, especially celebrated after its 2016 College World Series victory. Students here benefit from a dynamic learning atmosphere framed by the scenic South Carolina coast, fostering both academic excellence and personal growth.

The university's history is a testament to community vision and relentless progress. Founded by local citizens as Coastal Carolina Junior College, it steadily grew from an extension of the College of Charleston to an independent institution in 1993. This journey saw the opening of the first campus building in 1963 and continuous development, transforming a once modest campus into a comprehensive university with modern facilities and a dedicated student body. This deep-rooted history of evolution ensures a forward-thinking environment for today's students.

Academically, Coastal Carolina University is recognized for its commitment to relevant and impactful education, highlighted by its pioneering doctoral degree program in coastal and marine science systems science established in 2014. This focus on key regional and global issues provides unparalleled opportunities for advanced study. Beyond specialized programs, the university cultivates a vibrant student experience with growing residence halls, a passionate athletic community, and a campus continuously enhanced by strategic development initiatives, making it an exciting place to learn and live. With over 11,800 students, CCU provides both the resources of a larger university and the close-knit feel of a supportive community.

Key Highlights

  • A rapidly growing public university with over 11,881 students.
  • Proud home of the Chanticleers, 2016 College World Series Champions.
  • Became an autonomous state institution in 1993, signifying a major milestone in its growth.
  • Offers a pioneering doctoral degree program in coastal and marine science systems science.
  • Athletic programs officially joined the Sun Belt Conference in 2016.
  • A significant building boom throughout the 2010s expanded campus facilities, including Brittain Hall.

Timeline

1954
Founded as Coastal Carolina Junior College by the Coastal Educational Foundation
1963
First campus building, the Edward M. Singleton Building, opened
1987
First residence halls, 'The Woods', opened
1993
Officially became an autonomous state institution as Coastal Carolina University
2003
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers football team played its inaugural game at Brooks Stadium
2014
Established its first doctoral degree program in coastal and marine science systems science
2016
Chanticleers baseball team won the College World Series; athletic programs joined the Sun Belt Conference
2017
Enrollment reached 10,600 students
2025
James J. Winebrake appointed as the fourth president

Leadership

Gibbs Knotts, Ph.D.
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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