University of Charleston vs Coastal Carolina University

In the pursuit of higher education, prospective students often find themselves torn between multiple institutions that align with their academic aspirations. To aid in this decision-making process, we present a comprehensive comparison of the University of Charleston (UC) and Coastal Carolina University (CCU). While both universities offer a diverse range of programs and opportunities, they possess distinct characteristics that cater to different student preferences. UC, a private institution located in West Virginia, boasts a smaller student body and a higher acceptance rate compared to CCU, a public university situated in South Carolina. Furthermore, the student demographics and popular majors at each university vary significantly, reflecting their unique academic strengths and regional influences. To delve deeper into these differences and discover which university better aligns with your individual needs, we encourage you to explore the detailed comparison table provided on this page.
Coastal Carolina University logo

Coastal Carolina University

University of Charleston logo

University of Charleston

Overview

Location Conway, South Carolina Charleston, West Virginia
Campus setting City: Small City: Small
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 72.0% 74.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 79.1% 69.7%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $45

Graduate: $45
Undergraduate: $25

Graduate: $50
SAT range 1030 - 1190 N/A
ACT range 20 - 25 N/A
Students submitting SAT score 29.0%
Students submitting ACT score 13.0%
Total number of applicants 15,481 1,984
Total number of admissions given out 12,251 1,383
Admitted students who chose to enroll 2,519 246
Yield rate 20.6% 17.8%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Not required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $26,318

Out of state: $42,072
$47,450
Average net price $14,956 $20,086
Tuition
In state: $11,460

Out of state: $27,214
$30,900
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $5,440

Meal plan: $3,928
Room/dormitory: $5,450

Meal plan: $4,350
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

91.0%
Average amount $9,834
99.0%
Average amount $24,484
Students receiving federal student loan 60.0%
Average amount $5,848
57.0%
Average amount $5,403
Students taking out private loans 16.0%
Average amount $20,291
1.0%
Average amount $10,756

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 9,790
Men 44.9% Women 55.1%
2,162
Men 58.6% Women 41.4%
Graduate students 683
Men 30.7% Women 69.3%
764
Men 58.0% Women 42.0%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 60.2% 35.1%
International students 1.2% 6.1%
Campus local/setting City: Small City: Small
Dormitory capacity 4,728 756
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from South Carolina New Jersey New York Pennsylvania Maryland West Virginia Ohio Virginia Florida Pennsylvania

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Education
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Business
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Business
  • Health Professions
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Law Enforcement and Firefighting
Students to faculty ratio 17:1 14:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 51.2% 43.0%
Dropout rate 11.4% 20.9%
Transferred out 36.7% 35.1%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $49,378
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $69,235
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $44,086
  • Year 2: $48,198
  • Year 3: $61,332
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,114
  • Year 2: $53,497
  • Year 3: $60,248
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,888
  • Year 2: $65,750
  • Year 3: $59,685
Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $29,976
  • Year 2: $34,704
  • Year 3: $44,693
Education, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,824
  • Year 2: $42,873
  • Year 3: $44,446
Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,464
  • Year 2: $37,856
  • Year 3: $44,425
Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $37,250
  • Year 2: $38,168
  • Year 3: $43,145
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,430
  • Year 2: $38,597
  • Year 3: $42,978
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $36,101
  • Year 2: $36,423
  • Year 3: $42,472
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $112,123
  • Year 2: $119,148
  • Year 3: $126,458
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $97,686
  • Year 2: $96,627
  • Year 3: $106,180
Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,859
  • Year 2: $69,338
  • Year 3: $85,910
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,671
  • Year 2: $57,564
  • Year 3: $60,223
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,971
  • Year 2: $46,478
  • Year 3: $51,510
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,904
  • Year 2: $44,928
  • Year 3: $50,637
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,786
  • Year 2: $46,321
  • Year 3: $49,711
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $43,798
  • Year 3: $46,400
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $32,569
  • Year 3: N/A
Security Policy and Strategy (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $48,432
  • Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What is the overall academic reputation of University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    Both universities offer a range of academic programs. Coastal Carolina University is known for its growing programs and focus on undergraduate education, while the University of Charleston emphasizes a more intimate learning environment with a strong focus on health sciences and professional programs. The best choice depends on your specific academic interests and preferred learning environment.

  • How do the campus environments differ between University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    University of Charleston offers a more compact, urban campus setting located in Charleston, West Virginia. Coastal Carolina University boasts a larger, more suburban campus in Conway, South Carolina, near the popular Myrtle Beach area. Coastal Carolina provides a more traditional college experience with a wider range of campus activities and a stronger emphasis on athletics, while University of Charleston offers a more focused and personalized experience.

  • What are the key differences in tuition and financial aid at University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    Tuition and fees vary between the two institutions. Generally, you should check the most current information on each university's website. Financial aid opportunities, including scholarships and grants, are available at both universities. It's recommended to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine your eligibility for financial assistance at either school.

  • What are the popular majors at University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    University of Charleston is well-regarded for its programs in health sciences, including nursing, pharmacy, and pre-med. Coastal Carolina University is known for its programs in marine science, hospitality, business, and communication. Your choice should align with your desired field of study.

  • How does the student life and extracurricular activities compare at University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    Coastal Carolina University offers a more extensive range of extracurricular activities, including a vibrant Greek life, numerous student organizations, and Division I athletics. University of Charleston provides a more focused student life experience, with activities centered around its academic programs and a smaller student body. Consider your preferences for campus involvement when making your decision.

  • What are the career services and internship opportunities like at University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    Both universities offer career services to assist students with job searching, resume writing, and interview preparation. Coastal Carolina University, due to its location near Myrtle Beach, provides unique internship opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industries. University of Charleston offers strong connections to the healthcare industry in the Charleston area. Research the specific career services and internship programs offered by each university to see which aligns best with your career goals.

  • How does the location of each university impact the student experience?

    University of Charleston's location in the state capital provides access to government and professional opportunities. Coastal Carolina University's proximity to Myrtle Beach offers a vibrant social scene, access to beaches, and a wide range of recreational activities. Consider which location best suits your lifestyle and interests.

  • What are the admission requirements for University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    Admission requirements vary, but generally include high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT - though some schools are test-optional), and letters of recommendation. Check the specific requirements on each university's admissions website. Both universities consider a holistic review of applications.

  • Which university is better for students interested in athletics?

    Coastal Carolina University has a more prominent athletic program, competing in Division I. University of Charleston has a more modest athletic program. If you are highly interested in participating in or following college sports, Coastal Carolina is likely the better choice.

  • How do the graduation rates compare between University of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University?

    Graduation rates can vary. It's recommended to check the most recent data available on each university's website or through the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to compare the graduation rates and determine which institution has a better track record of student success.

Compare Similar Colleges

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