Relocation Overview

Rationale for Move

What is the rationale for constructing a new building for the College of Science and Mathematics on the Health Sciences Campus?

The decision to construct a modern new building to house the College of Science and Mathematics on the Health Sciences Campus will place the College in close proximity to the Medical College of Georgia, the Dental College of Georgia, and the Colleges of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, the Augusta University Medical Center, and university residence halls.

This strategic move will:

• • • • Enhance the university's attractiveness to students interested in health sciences careers.
      • Advance the university’s goal to grow enrollment.
      • Increase the opportunities for faculty and students to conduct scientific research.
      • Support the creation of additional graduate programs.
      • Distinguish Augusta University from other University System of Georgia institutions.

Science Hall on the Summerville Campus was designed primarily to support instruction. While the teaching mission remains integral, Augusta University is also committed to a research mission, as reflected in the University’s strategic plan, Beyond Boundaries. Student opportunities to engage in scientific research as undergraduates — to "do" science rather than just study it — will be expanded given the close proximity to researchers on the Health Sciences Campus.

Undergraduates will have the opportunity to study and work with “white coats” and graduate students pursuing a variety of health care careers. This enriched environment will have a positive impact on the progression of students and promote recruitment. Moreover, College of Science and Mathematics faculty researchers will benefit from cross-disciplinary interactions and collaborations with colleagues on the Health Sciences Campus, thereby facilitating Augusta University’s evolution toward becoming a comprehensive research university with Carnegie R1 status.

Situating the College of Science and Mathematics building on the Health Sciences Campus provides new room for science and mathematics programs to grow and for the remaining colleges to expand on Summerville, while also helping to preserve the Summerville National Historic District, which limits new construction.

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