Mission, Vision and Values:

Honoring the timeless principles of the liberal arts and sciences.

The College of Charleston is a state-supported, comprehensive institution that provides a high-quality education in the arts and sciences, education and business. Since its founding in 1770, the College has maintained a strong liberal arts curriculum in order to provide educational opportunities to students from South Carolina, throughout the U.S., and elsewhere in the world. A superior quality undergraduate program is central to the mission of the College.

The College actively seeks to admit a diverse group of students who excel academically, individuals who will thrive while engaging in original inquiry and creative expression in an atmosphere of intellectual freedom. This community provides students the opportunity to realize their intellectual and personal potential and to become responsible, productive members of society.

In addition to offering a broad range of baccalaureate degree programs, the College also provides a range of master's degree programs that are compatible with the needs of the community and the state. As a prominent component of the state's higher education system, the College encourages and supports research. Its faculty members are important sources of knowledge and expertise for the community, the state and the nation.

The College’s emphasis on lifelong learning includes credit and non-credit programs as well as a variety of cultural activities offered to the residents of the South Carolina Lowcountry.