Francis Marion University Announces Major Development Projects

News Summary

Francis Marion University is planning several major construction projects aimed at enhancing its educational offerings and facilities. Key developments include a new forestry and environmental sciences building set to start in March 2024, collaborative health sciences space with local medical universities, expansion of business and education facilities, and the introduction of new doctoral programs. With a focus on modern infrastructure and no tuition hikes, FMU is poised to prepare students for a competitive job market.

Exciting Developments on the Horizon for Francis Marion University!

As residents of Florence, South Carolina gear up for the changes on the local educational landscape, Francis Marion University (FMU) has big plans in store for the near future. With multiple construction projects scheduled to kick off, the university is set to enhance its educational offerings and facilities tremendously. The excitement is palpable as these projects promise to elevate both infrastructure and programs that align with today’s job market.

A New Frontier in Environmental Studies

The first project to look forward to is the construction of a state-of-the-art forestry and environmental sciences building, which is expected to commence in March 2024. This new facility will give FMU the opportunity to introduce fresh degree programs focused on forestry and environmental sciences, catering to students eager to make their mark in essential fields like land management, forestry conservation, and forest ecology.

Set to be completed by December 2026, the building isn’t just another structure; it will be equipped with modern classrooms, dedicated offices, and a spacious auditorium for lectures and events. This amazing $18 million project, funded by a mix of state support, private donations, and strategic partnerships, ensures that FMU will achieve these improvements without accruing any debt!

Collaboration in Health Sciences

Circle Park building on Cheves Street, which will be renamed the Dr. C. Edward Floyd Medical Education Consortium Building. Construction is slated to begin in September 2024, with completion anticipated in the summer of 2026. This building is designed for collaborative efforts along with the Medical University of South Carolina and the University of South Carolina. This shared space will cater to health sciences students, upper-level medical students, and various medical residencies, thus enriching the educational experience of those pursuing careers in healthcare.

Recent Additions and Expansions

School of Business/School of Education building in the fall of 2024. This 54,000-square-foot facility took two decades of planning and $24 million in state funding to realize. Among its amenities are auditoriums and communal spaces intended to foster collaboration among students and faculty. new engineering workshop geared towards mechanical and industrial engineering students has also opened, with an investment of $1.7 million. Meanwhile, current renovations are focused on refurbishing the historical Founder’s Hall, with a portion of the $1.5 million needed already secured. FMU is actively seeking an additional $9 million for more comprehensive renovations and has plans to tackle the McNair and Leatherman science buildings soon.

No Tuition Hikes, More Programs

occupational therapy and psychology. To provide even more options, a fresh program in criminal justice and a bachelor’s degree in autism studies have joined the curriculum this fall.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: FMU Construction and Programs
• WBTW: FMU New Business Education Building
• WPDE: SLED Office Groundbreaking at FMU
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Forestry
• SC Now: FMU Building Projects in 2023