College of Science

Mission Statement

The primary mission of the Gupta College of Science is to educate our students in their chosen disciplines by providing them with excellent educational experiences in the classroom, and with research, internship, field experience, mentoring, and service learning opportunities. Further, the college is committed to preparing our majors to excel in graduate and professional programs and to be competitive in the job market.

In recognition of science as a foundation of modern society and of a comprehensive liberal arts education, our mission includes embracing the teacher-scholar model and providing quality science education for all students of the University so that they become scientifically literate and productive citizens.

Finally, the college recognizes its important role in the community and as the University’s focal point for scientific scholarship and expertise, and as an active contributor to the advancement of science. Centers and Initiatives serve to facilitate basic and applied research in areas where college research directions and regional needs are well matched.

Minor Option

Students in the Gupta College of Science are encouraged to explore the various available minor options in order to enhance their academic experience. The specific minors available can be found in the departmental listings in the Gupta College of Science, as well as in the listings of the departments in other colleges at the University.

Double Majors

Students may double major in any program which offers a B.S. degree. To complete a double major, students must satisfy the major requirements for both degree programs and complete a minimum combined total of 48 upper-level credits in the two majors, all with a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Professional Program Advisement

In addition to advisement for degree programs, Coastal Carolina University also offers advisement regarding Professional Programs in Pre-Allied Health, Pre-Dental, Pre-Engineering, Pre-Medical, Pre-Nursing, Pre-Pharmacy, and Pre-Veterinary in the College of Science.

Pre-Allied Health

Adviser: Dr. D aniel Williams

After completing an undergraduate degree, many students who participate in the program transfer to a school of allied health science for graduate degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, etc. In selecting electives within their degrees, students should consult with the allied health advisers and choose electives that best prepare them for the professional schools of their choice.

Pre-Dental, Pre-Medical

Adviser: Dr. Daniel Williams

Coastal Carolina University offers pre-dental and pre-medical programs that prepare students for entrance into dental and medical schools. The adviser will advise students in developing a course of study, assist in placing students with dentists or physicians in mentoring/shadowing programs and provide information for the application to dental or medical school.

Pre-Engineering

Adviser: Dr. Varavut Limpasuvan

Through a cooperative program with Clemson University, students can begin their engineering education in the Engineering Dual Degree program. In the first three years of this program, students will fulfill most of the requirements for a B.S. degree at Coastal Carolina University. During this time, engineering foundation courses will also be completed in physics, mathematics and chemistry. The remaining engineering courses can be completed at Clemson University in two years and one summer session. The student in this program will receive two B.S. degrees, an engineering degree from Clemson University and a compatible B.S. degree from Coastal Carolina University. This program requires careful course selection made in consultation with the pre-engineering adviser.

Pre-Nursing

Adviser: Dr. Wanda Dooley

Coastal Carolina University does not offer a traditional nursing program leading to licensure. After completing one to two years at Coastal Carolina University, pre-nursing students transfer to a university that has a pre-licensure nursing program. Pre-nursing students are encouraged to select one or two programs they are interested in transferring to, and work with their adviser to complete any courses required for transfer admission to those schools.

Pre-Pharmacy

Adviser: Dr. Michael Pierce

After completing two years, many students who participate in the program designed for biology majors transfer to a school of pharmacy. In selecting electives within the biology degree, students should consult with their advisers and choose electives that best prepare them for the professional schools of their choice.

Pre-Veterinary

Adviser: Dr. S cott Parker

Coastal Carolina University offers a pre-veterinary science program with a strong background in biology, chemistry, math, physics and statistics. It is strongly recommended that undergraduate students also work with a veterinarian as an intern or as a part-time employee.