Exciting Developments on the Horizon for Francis Marion University in Florence
Florence is buzzing with excitement as Francis Marion University (FMU) gears up for some amazing new construction projects that promise to enhance education and attract more students to the campus. The university is on a roll, having recently opened a state-of-the-art School of Business/School of Education building this fall, and now they are setting their sights on further expansions.
New Construction Projects You’ll Love
Starting in March 2025, FMU will break ground on a brand-new forestry and environmental sciences building. This exciting addition comes with a hefty budget of $18 million and is expected to provide students with innovative degree programs in fields like land management, forestry conservation, policy development, and forest ecology. The building will be conveniently located right across the street from the main campus, making it accessible for students passionate about environmental studies.
This new teaching facility will feature classrooms, offices, and even an auditorium, providing ample space for students to learn and collaborate on their projects. It’s projected to be completed by December 2026, so those interested in the environmental sciences will have a fantastic new venue to explore their passions soon enough!
Expansion in Health Sciences
In addition to the new forestry building, FMU is also looking to bolster its medical education offerings. A new facility, the Dr. C. Edward Floyd Medical Education Consortium Building, will soon be on the scene. Construction is slated to begin this September. This building will house various health science students, including third- and fourth-year medical students from both Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and University of South Carolina. The collaboration aims to enhance medical training in the Pee Dee region. This $22.5 million project will stand as the sixth FMU facility in downtown Florence and will include classrooms, offices, and an auditorium.
Keeping Up with Demand
FMU is on a mission to ensure that its programs align with the needs of the workforce. This is accomplished without raising student tuition! President Fred Carter emphasized that the university’s tenacity in planning these projects stretches back years. The goal has always been to create environments that support new degree programs while maintaining financial stability for students.
In the past few months, FMU introduced two new doctoral programs — in Occupational Therapy and Psychology. Both of these exciting additions are housed in existing facilities, showing that not every expansion requires a brand-new building. Additionally, a new bachelor’s degree in autism studies and a criminal justice program have been added to the growing list of academic offerings.
Recent Upgrades Paying Off
Students are already reaping the benefits of the newly opened School of Business/School of Education building. This mammoth 54,000-square-foot structure, which cost $24 million and was funded by the state, houses resources that empower students. Whether it’s through the new auditorium or the inviting gathering areas, this building makes the learning process more enjoyable. For many students, like business major Dariel Villaran Goundis, the new construction was a key factor in choosing FMU.
“The new building is so much more comfortable and equipped with the latest technology. It definitely makes the learning experience better,” Goundis noted.
Looking Ahead
FMU is not finished yet! In addition to ongoing projects, plans are in motion to refurbish existing buildings, including Founder’s Hall and various science facilities. There’s a significant focus on updating what’s already in place while still reaching for new accomplishments.
As the university moves forward, every step seems to indicate growth, expansion, and a commitment to the community. With each new and renovated building, Francis Marion University is ensuring that today’s students are ready for the challenges of tomorrow’s workforce.
So, for anyone keeping track, the future is looking bright for Francis Marion University and the bustling city of Florence. More students are bound to show up for the thrill of learning in these fantastic new facilities!
