History of College of Charleston in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 25, 2025

The College of Charleston is a public university located in Charleston, South Carolina. Established in 1770 and chartered in 1785, it holds the distinction of being the oldest university in South Carolina. Additionally, it's recognized as the 13th-oldest higher education institution in the United States and the nation's oldest municipal college.

1967: Black students admitted

In 1967, black students were admitted to the College of Charleston as a result of external pressure, after the college became a private institution to avoid racial integration during the civil rights movement.

1970: Nickname change for College of Charleston athletics

During the 1970–71 school year, College of Charleston students voted to change the nickname from the Maroons to the Cougars, in honor of a cougar that had recently arrived at the Charles Towne Landing zoo.

1974: Establishment of the College of Charleston Athletic Club

In 1974, the College of Charleston Athletic Club was established to support the College of Charleston athletics.

2009: New buildings added to campus

In 2009, the College of Charleston's main campus in downtown Charleston, South Carolina included 156 buildings, a mix of modern and historic buildings built between 1770 and 2009.