Coastal Carolina University

Coastal Carolina University is a public university located in Conway, South Carolina, just west of Myrtle Beach. Founded in 1954, it began as a junior college and later became part of the University of South Carolina System before gaining independent university status in 1993. The institution offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as business, marine science, education, health sciences, and the liberal arts. As a designated sea-grant institution, it emphasizes coastal and marine research, including work connected to the Atlantic coastline. Coastal Carolina University attracts students from across the United States who are interested in a mid-sized campus environment near the coast with strong academic and community engagement opportunities.

Coastal Carolina University was founded in 1954 as Coastal Carolina Junior College, offering evening classes in Conway, South Carolina, to serve local residents seeking access to higher education. In 1960, the institution became a branch campus of the University of South Carolina System and was later known as USC Coastal Carolina College. During the 1970s, Coastal Carolina College expanded its academic offerings and began granting four-year degrees, reflecting growing regional demand. On July 1, 1993, Coastal Carolina University officially became an independent, state-supported university. Ronald R. Ingle, who had served as chancellor, became the first president of the newly independent university. Since gaining university status, Coastal Carolina University has expanded its academic colleges, research initiatives, and campus facilities, including programs connected to marine and coastal science. Today, Coastal Carolina University continues to serve students in the Grand Strand region and beyond while building on its origins as a community-focused institution.