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College of Charleston

The College of Charleston is unlike any other public university. We’ve built a culture that celebrates the power of diverse thought. Where different and unique perspectives unite to shape a brighter, better future. A nationally recognized, public liberal arts and sciences university in the heart of historic Charleston. Founded in 1770, the College is among the nation’s top universities for quality education, student life and affordability.

Excellence at a Glance

With our stellar location, vibrant student life and quality academic programs, the College of Charleston is truly one of the nation’s great public universities. Learn more about what the College has to offer, from our rich 250+- year academic history to our state-of-the-art facilities and distinguished faculty. Get to know the school everyone’s talking about.

 

The Basics

  • Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston is the oldest educational institution south of Virginia, and the 13th oldest in the United States.
  • 10,667 students
  • 14.5:1 student-faculty ratio
  • Andrew T. Hsu, Ph.D., current president
  • Clyde the Cougar, beloved mascot

Academics

  • 67 majors
  • 81 minors
  • 4 undergraduate certificate programs
  • 20 master's degree programs
  • 9 graduate-level certificate programs
  • 1 doctoral degree program

Academic Divisions

Student Life

  • More than 75 research, teaching and support labs
  • No. 1 city in the U.S.
  • No. 10 city in gaining innovation jobs
  • Students living on campus: 34%
  • 284 student organizations
  • 300 student-athletes make up the College of Charleston’s 19 NCAA Division I teams
  • Top-notch fitness facilities and practice fields

 

Admissions

  • Undergraduate: 10,660
  • Graduate: 1,069
  • Total: 11,729
  • Minority students: 19%
  • U.S. states and territories represented: 53
  • Foreign countries represented: 72
  • Acceptance rate: 72%