Myrtle Beach, SC, February 4, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) has reported a record-breaking 11% increase in spring enrollment, the largest in its history. This growth is coupled with significant expansions in various programs, particularly in healthcare, aligning with regional workforce demands. The college remains committed to providing accessible education without increasing tuition. Strategic initiatives underscore HGTC’s dedication to fostering student success and boosting the local economy through innovative training and development in diverse fields.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
HGTC Sees Record Enrollment Amidst Major Program Growth
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) has reported unprecedented enrollment figures and significant program expansions, reinforcing its role as a vital educational institution in the Myrtle Beach area and across South Carolina. This period of growth reflects a dedication to meeting regional workforce demands and providing accessible, high-quality technical education for students. The college’s strategic initiatives emphasize academic discipline, personal responsibility, and the development of skills essential for community impact.
The commitment to innovation and student success at HGTC is evident in its expanding curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities. These developments not only enhance the academic experience for students but also contribute directly to the economic vitality of the local community and the broader South Carolina economy. By prioritizing programs that align with industry needs, HGTC continues to foster a prepared and capable workforce.
Record-Breaking Enrollment and Strategic Program Expansion
Horry-Georgetown Technical College announced a record-breaking 11% increase in spring enrollment, marking the largest spring semester enrollment in the college’s history. This substantial growth reflects the effectiveness of the institution’s approach to higher education, which combines academic rigor with practical, career-focused training. Administrators attribute this significant growth to a rapidly expanding list of programs, now encompassing diverse subjects from healthcare to advanced technical fields.
The college’s commitment to adapting its offerings to the evolving job market underscores a dedication to student success and regional economic development. This strategic expansion ensures that students are equipped with relevant skills, fostering a sense of personal responsibility and discipline in their educational pursuits and future careers.
Strengthening South Carolina’s Healthcare Workforce
A significant area of expansion at HGTC is within its healthcare programs, directly addressing critical workforce needs in South Carolina. The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) has approved an increase in enrollment for its Dental Hygiene program, allowing more students to pursue careers in this essential field. This expansion is crucial for providing qualified dental professionals to serve the community.
Furthermore, the college recently celebrated its Nursing & Health Sciences Institute. HGTC President Marilyn “Murph” Fore highlighted that this investment is designed to increase healthcare student enrollment and expand programming, providing vital resources for training the next generation of healthcare providers. In a significant boost to these efforts, a Bank of America grant is aiding HGTC’s fundraising goal, with the specific aim to double enrollment in health science programs and bolster the healthcare workforce pipeline throughout the region. HGTC also offers an Expanded Duty Dental Assisting Certificate Training Program, further diversifying its healthcare offerings. These initiatives collectively demonstrate HGTC’s proactive role in building leadership within the healthcare sector.
Diverse Technical Fields and Innovation in Education
Beyond healthcare, HGTC is expanding its reach into other crucial technical fields, embracing innovation and meeting a broader spectrum of workforce demands. The college is supporting the expansion of its outboard marine technology program, a project located on the Horry-Georgetown Technical College campus in Conway. This expansion is supported by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, emphasizing the program’s significance for regional industry.
Additionally, HGTC’s curriculum now includes forward-looking subjects such as drone technology, preparing students for emerging industries and technological advancements. The college also offers specialized training like the ACE Personal Trainer program through its Workforce Development division, demonstrating a commitment to diverse career pathways and individual student growth. These varied programs showcase academic freedom in developing curricula that directly respond to market needs.
Commitment to Accessibility and Community Impact
In a move that underscores its dedication to student accessibility and financial responsibility, Horry-Georgetown Technical College has opted not to increase tuition. This decision allows more individuals to access valuable technical education without additional financial burden, reflecting the college’s commitment to personal responsibility in educational pursuits and long-term career planning.
The growth in facilities at HGTC has consistently kept pace with its rising enrollment, ensuring that students have access to modern learning environments and resources. This continuous investment in infrastructure and program development solidifies HGTC’s position as a cornerstone of South Carolina higher education, directly contributing to the state’s educational and economic ecosystem.
Leadership Paving the Way for Future Success
Under the leadership of President Marilyn “Murph” Fore, HGTC has navigated this period of rapid expansion with a clear vision for institutional excellence and community impact. The strategic decisions to expand high-demand programs and maintain tuition accessibility reflect a leadership philosophy centered on student growth and regional prosperity. This disciplined approach ensures that HGTC continues to build leaders who are prepared to make significant contributions to their communities and industries.
Conclusion
Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s remarkable growth in enrollment and strategic program expansions underscore its vital role in the Myrtle Beach area and across South Carolina higher education. By focusing on critical workforce needs, maintaining financial accessibility, and fostering a culture of academic excellence and personal responsibility, HGTC is not just educating students—it is building leaders and strengthening the community. We encourage readers to explore the diverse programs offered by Horry-Georgetown Technical College and stay updated on the dynamic contributions of Myrtle Beach SC college news to our vibrant region.
Keywords: Horry-Georgetown Technical College, Myrtle Beach SC college news, South Carolina higher education, workforce development, technical education.
| Category | Detail | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Enrollment Increase | Record-breaking 11% increase | Largest spring semester enrollment in college history |
| Tuition Policy | No tuition increase | Enhances accessibility for students |
| Dental Hygiene Program | CODA approved enrollment increase | Addresses demand for dental professionals |
| Nursing & Health Sciences Institute | Increased student enrollment, expanded programming | Bolsters healthcare workforce pipeline |
| Health Science Programs Funding | Bank of America grant to double enrollment | Strengthens healthcare workforce in region |
| Outboard Marine Technology | Program expansion supported by U.S. Economic Development Administration | Supports regional industry needs |
| New Program Offerings | Includes drone technology, ACE Personal Trainer, Expanded Duty Dental Assisting | Diversifies career pathways and meets emerging demands |
Frequently Asked Questions About Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Growth
What is the most recent enrollment increase at Horry-Georgetown Technical College?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College announced a record-breaking 11% increase in spring enrollment, marking the largest spring semester enrollment in the college’s history.
Which healthcare programs are expanding at HGTC?
The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) has approved an increase in enrollment for HGTC’s Dental Hygiene program. Additionally, the Nursing & Health Sciences Institute allows for increased healthcare student enrollment and expanded programming.
Has Horry-Georgetown Technical College increased its tuition recently?
No, Horry-Georgetown Technical College has opted not to increase tuition.
What new technical programs has HGTC introduced or expanded?
HGTC has expanded its outboard marine technology program and now includes subjects like drone technology. It also offers an ACE Personal Trainer program and an Expanded Duty Dental Assisting Certificate Training Program.
What is President Marilyn “Murph” Fore’s role in the college’s growth?
President Marilyn “Murph” Fore has highlighted that the investment in the Nursing & Health Sciences Institute allows for increased healthcare student enrollment and expanded programming.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Horry-Georgetown Technical College Enhances Safety Protocols
Coastal Carolina University Expands Academic Offerings
58th Annual Salute to Education Celebrates Student Achievements
Coastal Carolina University Seeks State Aid for Growth Initiatives
Coastal Carolina University Seeks $41 Million in State Aid
Myrtle Beach Higher Education Expands with CCU and HGTC
Myrtle Beach High: Driving Student Success & Community Growth
Myrtle Beach High School Celebrates Academic and Athletic Achievements
Ragin Prep Rams Navigate Tough Stretch
Coastal Carolina Football Enhances Coaching Staff
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
