Conway, South Carolina, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Coastal Carolina University has achieved a record enrollment of 11,881 students for the Fall semester, marking a 6.2% increase from the previous year. A significant factor in this growth is the 9.7% rise in first-year freshmen, totaling 2,942 students. Enhanced academic programs and effective admissions strategies contribute to this achievement. Furthermore, CCU’s student engagement in research has surged, with a 168% increase in research expenditures over four years, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and student participation in scholarly activities.
Conway, South Carolina – Coastal Carolina University (CCU) has achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a total enrollment record for the third consecutive year, with 11,881 students enrolled for the Fall 2025 semester. This number reflects a significant 6.2% increase from the previous record of 11,348 students established in Fall 2024.
A notable contributing factor to this growth is the increase in enrollment of first-year freshmen, which has risen by 9.7%. The current total of first-year students stands at 2,942. This impressive growth trend highlights the university’s successful admissions strategies and its enhancing reputation in the educational landscape.
The Vice President of Enrollment Management at CCU, Amanda Craddock, underscored the importance of the admissions staff’s efforts and the university’s robust academic programs, which include attractive financial aid and scholarship offerings. The largest first-year class in the institution’s history, along with the overall enrollment growth, is seen as indicative of the institution’s commitment to providing quality education.
Beyond enrollment numbers, CCU’s rising student population is expected to contribute positively to academic outputs, including research initiatives. Recent data shows that research expenditures at the university have surged by 168% over the past four years, as reported in the latest National Higher Education and Research Development survey. In the 2024-25 academic year, CCU had 898 students enrolled in undergraduate research courses, highlighting a strong emphasis on student engagement in scholarly activities.
The involvement of students in research is further evidenced by the fact that 27% of faculty presentations included students as co-authors. This confirms CCU’s dedication to fostering an environment that promotes student research and innovation. Associate Provost for Research Rob Young reiterated the university’s commitment to preparing student researchers as future leaders and innovators in their respective fields.
CCU President James J. Winebrake expressed pride in the university’s growth in both enrollment and research activities, which reflects the dedication of the faculty and the talent of the student body. The enrollment numbers are subject to finalization following a census scheduled for mid-October.
Enrollment Statistics Overview
- Total Enrollment for Fall 2025: 11,881 students
- Increase from Fall 2024: 6.2%
- First-Year Freshmen Enrollment: 2,942 students
- Increase in First-Year Enrollment: 9.7%
- Research Expenditure Increase: 168% over four years
- Undergraduate Research Course Enrollment: 898 students
- Faculty Presentations with Student Co-authors: 27%
Background Context
Coastal Carolina University, located in Conway, South Carolina, has made substantial strides over recent years to enhance its educational offerings and research capabilities. The combination of approximately 12,000 enrolled students, a growing reputation, and notable increases in research funding indicates a vibrant academic environment that attracts a diverse student body.
As CCU continues to evolve, the university’s focus on quality education, combined with effective financial support, remains instrumental in driving enrollment growth and fostering an innovative research culture.
| Aspect | Fall 2025 | Fall 2024 | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 11,881 | 11,348 | 6.2% |
| First-Year Freshmen | 2,942 | 2,684 | 9.7% |
| Research Expenditures | Increased by 168% | N/A | N/A |
| Undergraduate Research Enrollment | 898 | N/A | N/A |
| Faculty Presentations with Student Co-authors | 27% | N/A | N/A |
FAQ Section
What is the total enrollment for Coastal Carolina University for Fall 2025?
The total enrollment for Coastal Carolina University for Fall 2025 is 11,881 students.
How much did the enrollment increase from Fall 2024?
The enrollment increased by 6.2% from Fall 2024 when the record was 11,348 students.
How many first-year freshmen are enrolled for Fall 2025?
There are 2,942 first-year freshmen enrolled for Fall 2025, which is a 9.7% increase from the previous year.
What has been the trend in research expenditures at CCU?
Research expenditures at Coastal Carolina University have increased by 168% over the last four years.
How many students were enrolled in undergraduate research courses during the 2024-25 academic year?
A total of 898 students were enrolled in undergraduate research courses during the 2024-25 academic year.
What percentage of faculty presentations included student co-authors?
27% of faculty presentations included students as co-authors.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
James Winebrake Begins Tenure as Coastal Carolina University President
JLL Secures $15.44 Million Financing for Student Housing
Dr. James Winebrake Appointed President of Coastal Carolina University
Coastal Carolina University Sees Record Enrollment Surge
Coastal Carolina University Appoints New President
Dr. James J. Winebrake Appointed President of Coastal Carolina University
Groundbreaking Ceremony for Marine Technology Institute in Georgetown
Michael Benson Appointed President of West Virginia University
Coastal Carolina University President Considered for WVU Role
Community Pushback in Conway as Planning Commission Nixes Housing Development
Additional Resources
- Goccusports – Football Chants Shutout Buccaneers for First Win
- ECUPirates – Soccer Pirates Fall Short at Coastal Carolina
- WMBF News – Coastal Carolina University Sees Record-Breaking Enrollment
- Myrtle Beach Online – CCU Enrollment Growth
- Wikipedia: Coastal Carolina University
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
