Myrtle Beach, SC, December 31, 2025
News Summary
Coastal Carolina University is enhancing its commitment to academic excellence and regional impact through expanded interdisciplinary research initiatives. With a focus on fostering innovative inquiry among students and faculty, the university aims to enrich the student experience and contribute to the economic vitality of Myrtle Beach and South Carolina. The growth in research opportunities, hands-on learning experiences, and academic rigor positions CCU as a vital player in addressing regional challenges and developing future leaders.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Coastal Carolina University is making significant strides in its commitment to academic excellence and regional impact with the expansion of its interdisciplinary research initiatives. These efforts are designed to foster innovative inquiry among students and faculty, contributing to both intellectual growth and the economic vitality of the Myrtle Beach area and broader South Carolina. The university’s dedication to robust academic programs and hands-on learning experiences is a cornerstone of its mission to develop future leaders.
In an era where collaboration across disciplines is increasingly crucial, Coastal Carolina University’s focus on interdisciplinary research exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to higher education. This strategic direction not only enriches the student experience but also positions the institution as a key contributor to problem-solving and innovation within the state. The emphasis on academic freedom and responsible inquiry underpins these initiatives, ensuring that research pursuits are both rigorous and impactful.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Inquiry
Coastal Carolina University (CCU) has been recognized as a Research College and University in the 2025 report by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. This designation acknowledges institutions that invest at least $2.5 million annually in research and development, a threshold CCU surpassed with $4.7 million in research expenditures in fiscal year 2023. The university also stands as the only institution in South Carolina to be named a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Students, according to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
A central component of CCU’s strategy involves providing students with direct engagement in research projects. Programs like the INBRE program at Coastal Carolina University offer student research applications, creating pathways for undergraduates to participate in meaningful scientific discovery. Such opportunities are vital for developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a strong sense of personal responsibility among students.
Expanding Hands-On Learning and Experiential Research
The Gupta College of Science at Coastal Carolina University offers diverse programs, including a Master of Science degree in coastal marine and wetland studies and a Ph.D. in coastal and marine systems science. The college’s marine systems department is equipped with four sea vessels dedicated to both teaching and research, providing invaluable hands-on experience for students studying the local environment. Recently, the university received a new 27-foot boat, the “Coastal Discovery,” to further assist marine science students and faculty with research that impacts coastal ecosystems and communities. This vessel is part of their expanded eight-vessel fleet, allowing students to gain practical experience with instruments that measure water temperature, level, and chlorophyll in areas like Long Bay.
These initiatives not only enhance academic rigor but also directly address real-world challenges facing the Myrtle Beach region, reinforcing the importance of education in community impact.
Collaborations and Regional Economic Impact
Coastal Carolina University actively engages in collaborations that extend its impact beyond campus borders. The South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) plays a significant role in funding innovation within the state’s academic institutions. Through its SACT (SCRA-Academic Collaboration Team) program, SCRA awarded $3,860,000 to several South Carolina colleges and universities, with Coastal Carolina University receiving $640,000 in Track Two funding for Capacity Building. These funds, combined with matching contributions from the institutions, aim to accelerate innovation and foster economic development across South Carolina. SCRA’s mission is to fuel South Carolina’s innovation economy, recognizing academic institutions as crucial for use-inspired research and development.
The university’s engagement with regional partners and its contributions to innovation are critical for the economic ecosystem of South Carolina, aligning with the state’s broader goals for workforce development and technological advancement.
A Broader Look at Myrtle Beach’s Higher Education Landscape
Beyond CCU, the Myrtle Beach area is home to other vital institutions that contribute to the region’s educational opportunities. Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), located in Myrtle Beach, offers over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, providing pathways for quick entry into the workforce or transfer to senior institutions for a bachelor’s degree. HGTC’s programs span a wide range of career fields, including Advanced Welding, Nursing, Machine Tool Technology, Business, Health Science, Natural Resources, and Information Technology. The college also provides certifications in areas such as Allied Health, including Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and EMT Basic, and other fields like Welding and CDL/Truck Driving.
Galen College of Nursing in Myrtle Beach specializes in nursing education, offering accredited programs from associate to doctorate degrees. With a freshman retention rate of 80% in 2022 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, Galen College emphasizes preparing competent and caring nurses. The college works with a Professional Advisory Committee comprising community leaders to ensure its programs meet community needs and partners with local healthcare facilities for hands-on clinical experience. These institutions collectively ensure a robust educational ecosystem, providing diverse academic and career-focused opportunities for local students and contributing significantly to the regional workforce.
Building Leaders and Community Impact Through Athletics
Coastal Carolina University’s athletic programs also contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals and community pride. The Chanticleers compete in NCAA Division I, with notable achievements such as the baseball team winning the College World Series in 2016. The university’s athletic facilities, including the 20,000-seat Brooks Stadium for football, demonstrate a commitment to supporting student-athletes. Athletics instills discipline, teamwork, and leadership qualities, reflecting the university’s dedication to student success beyond academics. The presence of a U.S. Army ROTC program further emphasizes the commitment to leadership development.
The ongoing expansion of interdisciplinary research initiatives at Coastal Carolina University underscores a commitment to rigorous academics, student development, and regional progress. By fostering innovation, providing hands-on learning, and collaborating with state and local partners, CCU continues to build a legacy of academic excellence and community impact. We encourage readers to explore the diverse academic programs offered by Coastal Carolina University, Horry-Georgetown Technical College, and Galen College of Nursing, and to stay informed about the impactful contributions these institutions make to South Carolina higher education and the Myrtle Beach community.
Key Highlights of Myrtle Beach Higher Education
| Institution | Focus Areas | Key Achievements/Features | Community Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coastal Carolina University (CCU) | Interdisciplinary Research, Marine Science, Education, Social Sciences, Humanities, Athletics | Recognized as a Research College and University (2025), $4.7 million in research expenditures (FY2023), Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Students, 8-vessel marine science fleet including “Coastal Discovery”, NCAA Division I Athletics (Baseball College World Series 2016), SCRA Track Two funding for Capacity Building ($640,000). | Enhances regional economic development, fosters innovation, provides skilled graduates, promotes community pride through athletics, contributes to coastal ecosystem research. |
| Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) | Workforce Development, Associate Degrees, Technical Certifications (e.g., Nursing, Welding, Business, IT) | Over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, pathways for workforce entry or transfer to senior institutions, offers certifications in Allied Health and other trades. | Provides skilled workforce for local industries, offers accessible higher education, supports career advancement. |
| Galen College of Nursing | Nursing Education (Associate, Baccalaureate, Master’s, Doctorate degrees) | Accredited programs, 80% freshman retention rate (2022), 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio (2022), Professional Advisory Committee with community leaders, partnerships with local healthcare facilities for clinical experience. | Addresses critical healthcare workforce needs, produces compassionate and competent nurses for the community. |
FAQ Section
What is Coastal Carolina University’s research designation?
Coastal Carolina University has been designated a Research College and University in the 2025 report by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
How much did Coastal Carolina University spend on research in fiscal year 2023?
Coastal Carolina University surpassed the $2.5 million annual research and development investment threshold with $4.7 million in research expenditures in fiscal year 2023.
What is the purpose of the “Coastal Discovery” boat at Coastal Carolina University?
The “Coastal Discovery” boat assists marine science students and faculty with research that impacts coastal ecosystems and communities, allowing for hands-on experience with instruments that measure water temperature, level, and chlorophyll.
How many programs does Horry-Georgetown Technical College offer?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs.
What is Galen College of Nursing’s freshman retention rate?
The freshman retention rate for Galen College of Nursing, Myrtle Beach Campus was 80% in 2022.
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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.
