Myrtle Beach, SC, December 28, 2025
News Summary
Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC, is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and promoting student opportunities. With a range of programs and a commitment to research, CCU prepares students for impactful careers. The university recognizes outstanding students through merit-based scholarships and supports athlete development through holistic programs. Its strategic partnerships and events integrate community engagement, bolstering the local economy while enhancing the educational landscape. CCU is a significant contributor to South Carolina’s economy, with substantial research investments and a dedication to student success.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
Coastal Carolina University Fosters Academic Excellence and Student Opportunity
Coastal Carolina University (CCU), situated in Conway just minutes from the resort area of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, stands as a public institution dedicated to cultivating academic excellence, fostering student growth, and promoting institutional distinction. With a vibrant community of thinkers and doers, CCU offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to prepare students for impactful careers and engaged citizenship. The university’s commitment extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing how rigorous education and competitive sports build leadership qualities and contribute significantly to the broader community and regional economic landscape.
The institution continuously demonstrates its dedication to high standards, attracting students from across the country and the world. By blending a robust academic environment with diverse opportunities, CCU ensures its graduates are well-prepared for post-secondary success and beyond. The university’s strategic initiatives and partnerships underscore its vital role in South Carolina’s educational and economic ecosystem, reinforcing its position as a beacon of learning in the region.
Recognizing Academic Distinction
Coastal Carolina University is committed to the highest standards of academic excellence, actively recognizing outstanding students through various merit-based awards and programs. Both incoming freshmen and transfer students are automatically considered for University Merit-Based Scholarships upon admission, with notifications for fall enrollment beginning in December. These scholarships acknowledge students who demonstrate exemplary academic performance and potential. Beyond initial entry, CCU also provides University Application-Based Scholarships, available to both newly accepted and continuing students, with applications opening each December and results announced by May 1st.
The university celebrates student success at events like the Honors Convocation, where departmental program academic awards, HTC Honors College recognition, and outstanding undergraduate student awards are presented. This commitment to recognizing and fostering academic achievement is central to CCU’s mission, encouraging a culture where students are pushed to achieve their full potential.
Expanding Research and Hands-On Learning
CCU has earned the “Research College and Universities” designation in the 2025 report by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, signifying its substantial investment in research and development. In fiscal year 2023, the university surpassed the $2.5 million annual investment threshold, with expenditures reaching $4.7 million. This robust research environment translates into expanded opportunities for students.
As a national sea-grant institution, Coastal Carolina University utilizes Waties Island, an Atlantic barrier island, as a natural laboratory, offering unique hands-on learning and discovery opportunities for students in instruction and research. Furthermore, the marine science program recently acquired the 27-foot “Coastal Discovery” vessel, its third-largest in an eight-vessel fleet, providing students with direct experience in marine research, including maintaining sensors and gathering data to understand coastal ecosystems. CCU also boasts a growing array of internship and research opportunities. The SC INBRE Undergraduate student application for research is typically available in January, with applications due by March 15th.
Cultivating Student-Athletes for Holistic Success
Coastal Carolina University’s Department of Athletics places a strong emphasis on the holistic development of its student-athletes, balancing competitive sports with rigorous academic pursuits. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) aims to inspire leadership and enhance the student-athlete experience through academic and athletic excellence. In April 2024, the SAAC hosted the Student-Athlete Excellence Awards, recognizing top athletic and academic performers, including awards for Male and Female Athlete of the Year, and the Presidential Student-Athlete of the Year, who achieved an impressive 4.0 GPA in Recreation Sport Management. The Linda C. Vereen Team Academic Excellence Awards are also presented to the men’s and women’s teams with the highest combined GPA.
In January 2025, CCU launched the Teal Impact program, a comprehensive student-athlete development and engagement initiative. This program focuses on five core pillars: Career Development, Community Engagement, Leadership, Personal Growth, and Advocacy. Teal Impact provides intentional, innovative programs and individualized support to help student-athletes excel as leaders, professionals, and engaged citizens beyond graduation. It offers programming on transitional skills, economic literacy, achievement and branding, internships, career planning, mentoring, networking, and academic success.
Strategic Partnerships and Community Impact
Coastal Carolina University plays a crucial role in strengthening the regional educational landscape through key partnerships. The HCS Scholars Academy High School, located on the CCU campus, is a collaboration between Horry County Schools and Coastal Carolina University. Established in 2003, this academy provides advanced learners with an accelerated and rigorous academic curriculum, commensurate with their abilities. Students at the Scholars Academy have the opportunity to participate in research with college professors, attend university-sponsored events, and take university-level courses while still in high school, often earning the equivalent of two years of college credit. The HCS Scholars Academy was recognized as the number one high school in South Carolina for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school years, demonstrating its commitment to academic excellence.
Beyond direct academic programs, CCU fosters community interaction through over 180 student clubs and organizations. The university’s Community & Civic Engagement department supports students in learning about their roles as active citizens through service and advocacy, further connecting students to the wider community.
Economic Contributions to South Carolina
Coastal Carolina University is a significant economic driver for South Carolina. Last year, the university generated an economic impact of $565.8 million on the state. This financial influence extends through employment, local expenditures, and the ripple effect of a thriving academic institution within the regional economy. The university’s presence supports numerous jobs and stimulates business activity, directly benefiting residents and enterprises throughout the Grand Strand area.
CCU offers bachelor’s degrees in 73 fields and 20 graduate-level programs, contributing to a skilled workforce and fostering innovation across the state. The university’s focus on student success and research excellence prepares future leaders while fostering educational advancement, cementing its role as a vital contributor to South Carolina’s economy.
Coastal Carolina University remains a dynamic institution committed to nurturing academic rigor, fostering student potential, and making a tangible impact on the community and economy of Myrtle Beach and the entire state of South Carolina. Through its diverse programs, dedicated faculty, and vibrant campus life, CCU continues to be a cornerstone of higher education in the region. Readers are encouraged to explore the many programs Coastal Carolina University offers, attend upcoming campus events, or stay updated on the contributions of this thriving local college community.
Key Coastal Carolina University Data
| Metric | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Impact (Last Year) | $565.8 million on South Carolina | |
| Research Expenditures (FY 2023) | $4.7 million | |
| Carnegie Classification | “Research College and Universities” (2025) | |
| Bachelor’s Degree Fields | 73 | |
| Graduate-Level Programs | 20 | |
| HCS Scholars Academy Ranking | #1 High School in South Carolina (2023-2024, 2024-2025) |
Frequently Asked Questions About Coastal Carolina University
What is Coastal Carolina University’s economic impact on South Carolina?
Coastal Carolina University had an economic impact of $565.8 million on South Carolina last year.
What research designation has Coastal Carolina University received?
Coastal Carolina University earned the “Research College and Universities” designation in the 2025 report by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
How much did Coastal Carolina University invest in research in fiscal year 2023?
Coastal Carolina University invested $4.7 million in research expenditures in fiscal year 2023.
What types of scholarships are available at Coastal Carolina University?
Coastal Carolina University offers University Merit-Based Scholarships for outstanding freshmen and transfer students, and University Application-Based Scholarships for both newly accepted and continuing students.
What is the Teal Impact program at Coastal Carolina University?
Teal Impact is a holistic student-athlete development and engagement program at Coastal Carolina University, launched in January 2025, focusing on Career Development, Community Engagement, Leadership, Personal Growth, and Advocacy.
What is the HCS Scholars Academy High School’s relationship with Coastal Carolina University?
The HCS Scholars Academy High School is located on the campus of Coastal Carolina University and is a partnership between Horry County Schools and Coastal Carolina University to provide advanced learners with rigorous academic opportunities.