What is the status of CofC as an educational institution?

The College of Charleston (CofC) is classified as a public liberal arts university. This designation highlights its commitment to providing a liberal arts education while also functioning as a public institution, which means it is funded and maintained by state resources. The term "liberal arts" indicates that the university emphasizes a broad-based education in the humanities, arts, and sciences, aiming to promote critical thinking and communication skills across various disciplines.

This status distinguishes CofC from other types of educational institutions, such as private universities, which rely on tuition and private funding, public universities that may not focus solely on liberal arts, and community colleges which typically offer two-year programs and degrees. As a public liberal arts university, CofC is dedicated to offering a comprehensive undergraduate experience that balances academic rigor with community engagement and personal development, preparing students for both professional success and informed citizenship.