science. In 2016, the Chanticleers baseball team won the College World Series, the first national title for the university. On July 1, 2016, the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers athletic programs officially joined the Sun Belt Conference. The following year, enrollment reached 10,600 students.
=== Leadership ===
In October 2020, Coastal Carolina University announced the appointment of Michael T. Benson as its third president and ninth leader. Benson began his tenure on January 1, 2021. He replaced David A. DeCenzo, who retired after serving for nearly 14 years as the university's president. On July 7, 2025, Benson was replaced by James J. Winebrake as the fourth president of the university.
=== Rankings and Recognitions ===
U.S. News and World Report (South) 2025 Rankings:
No. 7 in Best Undergraduate Teaching
No. 14 in Best Colleges for Veterans
No. 15 Top Public Schools
Coastal Carolina University has also been recognized for its outstanding research, mental health services, military support, and more
CCU …
