Myrtle Beach, SC, January 5, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is a pivotal institution in the Grand Strand region, providing affordable education and workforce training. With over 80 programs, HGTC addresses local workforce needs and offers seamless transfer pathways to four-year institutions. The college fosters community engagement and invests in both academic excellence and student support, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers while positively impacting the local economy.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
Horry-Georgetown Technical College: Powering Grand Strand’s Future
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) stands as a cornerstone of higher education in the Grand Strand region, diligently fostering a skilled workforce and providing essential pathways for academic advancement. Through its comprehensive programs and strategic community collaborations, HGTC is a vital contributor to the economic vitality and educational landscape of South Carolina.
Since its establishment in 1966, HGTC has been dedicated to enriching the lives of students and empowering communities by offering accessible and affordable education. The college’s commitment to academic rigor, student growth, and institutional excellence not only equips individuals with valuable skills but also significantly impacts the local economy and community well-being.
Driving Workforce Development Across the Grand Strand
Horry-Georgetown Technical College plays a critical role in addressing the workforce needs of Horry and Georgetown counties, and the broader Grand Strand. As a two-year community/technical college, HGTC specializes in workforce development and educational training, offering more than 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs. These programs are specifically designed to provide students with the competencies needed for immediate entry into various career fields, aligning education directly with industry demands. The college also offers a range of continuing education and workforce development options for individuals seeking job training without formal college enrollment.
The commitment to professional development extends to collaborative initiatives, such as the annual event bringing together high school counselors from the Grand Strand Campus to emphasize local workforce development. This proactive engagement ensures that prospective students are aware of the diverse opportunities available through technical education, promoting informed decision-making for their career paths.
Seamless Transfer Pathways to Four-Year Institutions
Recognizing the diverse aspirations of its students, HGTC has cultivated robust transfer agreements with senior institutions, providing clear and efficient routes for students to pursue bachelor’s degrees. The college grants Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Science (AS) degrees, primarily designed for those intending to transfer to a four-year university, offering a solid foundation in liberal arts and sciences.
A notable example is the seamless Criminal Justice transfer pathway established with Coastal Carolina University (CCU), which provides HGTC students with a direct route towards a four-year degree. Similarly, HGTC has a transfer agreement with Francis Marion University (FMU), creating a smooth transition for students earning an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree who wish to continue their education. While admission to partner universities is not guaranteed, these pathways simplify the transfer process and highlight HGTC’s dedication to broadening educational horizons for its students.
Diverse Academic Offerings and Specializations
HGTC offers an extensive array of academic programs across various career interests, from Business and Health Science to Natural Resources and Information Technology. Beyond the Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees, the college provides Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees in numerous technical and occupational fields, directly preparing students for specific careers upon graduation. Examples include programs in Advanced Welding, Machine Tool Technology, Business Administration, Cybersecurity, and Golf and Sports Turf Management, showcasing the college’s comprehensive coverage of diverse career interests.
The Nursing – ADN program is a key offering, with specific admission requirements including an acceptance letter from the HGTC Admissions Office, demonstrating a commitment to rigorous academic standards in critical healthcare fields. These specialized programs underscore HGTC’s responsiveness to evolving industry needs and its dedication to producing highly skilled graduates ready to contribute to the regional economy.
Investing in Campus Infrastructure and Student Support
To support its mission and accommodate student growth, HGTC actively pursues investments in its facilities. In Fiscal Year 2019–2020, a capital request for $10,000,000 was made to repurpose and modernize buildings on the Grand Strand Campus. Such investments are crucial for ensuring that the college’s learning environments remain contemporary and conducive to effective education and training.
Beyond physical infrastructure, the college emphasizes robust student support services. The HGTC Foundation, established in 1978, plays a vital role in addressing funding gaps and supporting students through scholarships and emergency funds, especially given that over 90% of students are from the local area. These efforts help remove financial barriers, ensuring students have the resources needed to succeed academically and contribute to the community’s prosperity. The expansion of the HGTC Pantry at the Grand Strand Campus and the provision of professional tool kits to Mechatronics students further exemplify the commitment to student welfare and practical support.
Community Engagement and Economic Impact
HGTC actively fosters collaborative partnerships with community agencies and local businesses, recognizing that these connections are essential for both student success and regional economic development. The college has been honored with awards such as the Building Futures Community Partnership Award, acknowledging its contributions to organizations like A Father’s Place, a local fatherhood nonprofit in Myrtle Beach, SC. These partnerships extend to making educational programs and certifications accessible, sometimes for free, to support community initiatives.
The college’s strong ties with regional employers facilitate job placement and internships, while programs like CCU’s RISE Center internship program, which offers paid summer internships in Horry and Georgetown counties, highlight a broader commitment to professional development throughout the Grand Strand. These engagements underscore HGTC’s integral role in nurturing leadership, personal responsibility, and a vibrant local community.
Conclusion
Horry-Georgetown Technical College remains a pivotal institution in South Carolina higher education, steadfast in its mission to provide accessible, high-quality education that directly addresses the needs of the Grand Strand region. From rigorous workforce development programs to seamless university transfer pathways and significant community engagement, HGTC empowers students with the discipline and skills necessary for successful careers and meaningful lives. Its continuous investment in academic excellence and strategic partnerships solidifies its role as a leader in educational innovation and community impact in Myrtle Beach, SC. Readers are encouraged to explore HGTC’s diverse programs and discover how this institution continues to shape the future of our local college community.
Key Information: Horry-Georgetown Technical College
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1966 |
| Type | Two-year Community/Technical College |
| Campus Locations | 3 (including Grand Strand Campus) |
| Programs Offered | More than 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs |
| Key Specialties | Workforce Development, Educational Training, Personal Interest Classes, College Education |
| Transfer Agreements | Coastal Carolina University (CCU), Francis Marion University (FMU) |
| Service Area | Primarily Horry and Georgetown Counties, with programs also meeting regional, national, and international needs |
Frequently Asked Questions About Horry-Georgetown Technical College
- What types of programs does Horry-Georgetown Technical College offer?
- Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers more than 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs. These include Associate in Arts (AA), Associate in Science (AS), and Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees, as well as specialized workforce development and continuing education options.
- How does HGTC support students seeking to transfer to a four-year university?
- HGTC provides seamless transfer pathways through agreements with institutions like Coastal Carolina University (CCU) and Francis Marion University (FMU). Students can earn AA or AS degrees, which are primarily designed for transfer to a four-year college or university.
- What is the role of Horry-Georgetown Technical College in workforce development for the Grand Strand?
- HGTC is a key institution for workforce development in the Grand Strand region, offering educational training and career-focused programs that meet local industry needs. The college also provides continuing education and job training options for individuals not pursuing a full degree.
- What is the HGTC Foundation and how does it support students?
- The HGTC Foundation, established in 1978, is a nonprofit organization that supports Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s mission by addressing funding gaps. It provides financial assistance through scholarships and emergency funds, helping local students overcome financial barriers to their education.
- Does Horry-Georgetown Technical College have multiple campuses?
- Yes, Horry-Georgetown Technical College is a two-year Community/Technical College offering three campus locations, including the Grand Strand Campus in Myrtle Beach.
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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.
