Gupta College of Science

Vision Statement

We empower each student to be the scientists and engineers of tomorrow through a premier and experience-driven STEM education with a big-university impact and a small-university feel.

Mission Statement

The primary mission of the Gupta College of Science is to provide each student with a high-quality STEM education that includes personalized experiences in the classroom, lab, field, and ocean. Our teacher-scholar approach weaves together a strong liberal arts core, innovative STEM teaching strategies, and the high-impact practice of experiential learning including undergraduate and graduate research, internships, and industry-mentored capstones. This leads to the creation of exceptional academic programs and experiences that are aligned with local, regional, state, and national needs. These programs are provided by an inclusive community of faculty and staff committed to strong, student-centered relationships. Our graduates are prepared for successful careers in a dynamic workforce or for excellence in graduate and professional programs.

Science is a foundation of both modern society and a comprehensive liberal arts education. Therefore, our mission also includes providing a high-quality science education for all students of the University so they can become scientifically informed citizens. 

Finally, our college acknowledges its important role as the University’s focal point for scientific scholarship and expertise, and as an active and meaningful contributor to the advancement of science.  Therefore, we are committed to being leaders in scientific research and scholarly efforts that meet the needs of the local and global community.

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-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-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.