FMU’s Evening College brings learning and unique course offerings to the community

Francis Marion University’s role as the provider of higher education in the Pee Dee Region is expanding through the university’s Evening College program.

The Evening College offers citizens in the Pee Dee (and a few from beyond) the opportunity to expand their intellectual horizons through an array of courses from across the academic spectrum. The for-credit, non-degree courses provide opportunities for professional and personal development.

The program began in the fall 2022 semester. Course offerings so far include watercolor painting, homesteading, American Sign Language, introductory songwriting, bird watching, woodworking, photography and true crime.

Evening College courses are taught by FMU faculty and professionally qualified community members, and are held at the university’s downtown campus. While most meet in the Carter Center for Health Sciences and the Leatherman Medical Complex, a few courses have also convened at the Performing Arts Center and the FMU Recording Studio.

Associate Provost and Director of Graduate Programs Dr. Will Carswell has observed a tremendous response from the community.

“The Evening College continues to expand in course offerings and grow in interest throughout our community,” Carswell said. “With a broader array of course offerings this fall – everything from watercolor and American Sign Language to songwriting, and murder mysteries – we have experienced a 50% increase in participation over the prior year. Our goal is to continue to provide Florence and the region with engaging courses for professional and personal development.”