Myrtle Beach, SC, January 16, 2026
News Summary
Coastal Carolina University (CCU) and Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) are leading the charge in expanding higher education in the Myrtle Beach area. With diverse academic offerings and strategic partnerships, these institutions are enhancing community development and workforce readiness, addressing local educational needs, and promoting economic growth in the region.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Higher education in the Myrtle Beach area is experiencing a period of significant growth and collaborative innovation, marked by the expanding roles of Coastal Carolina University (CCU) and Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC). These institutions are not only providing diverse academic pathways for students but are also actively contributing to the region’s economic vitality and community development.
The commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement defines the current landscape of higher education along the Grand Strand. Both CCU and HGTC are strategically enhancing their offerings and forging partnerships that aim to meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce. Their integrated efforts underscore a dedication to fostering leadership, critical thinking, and personal responsibility, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to South Carolina and beyond.
The expansion of programs, research opportunities, and community outreach initiatives reflects a proactive approach to educational advancement. These institutions serve as vital pillars in the local educational ecosystem, attracting students, supporting economic growth, and providing accessible pathways from foundational technical skills to advanced university degrees. This collaborative spirit ensures that Myrtle Beach remains a hub for educational opportunity and innovation.
Expanding Educational Pathways and Student Opportunities
The educational landscape in the Myrtle Beach area is continually evolving, with both Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College playing pivotal roles in offering diverse pathways for academic and career advancement. HGTC, as a two-year community/technical college, provides a broad array of programs across three campus locations, making higher education accessible to a wide range of students. This accessibility is crucial for individuals seeking to acquire technical skills or to begin their academic journey before transferring to a four-year institution. Coastal Carolina University, situated in Conway just minutes from Myrtle Beach, challenges its students to develop leadership skills and inspires them to create positive change. The collaboration between these institutions highlights the region’s commitment to providing comprehensive educational opportunities, from vocational training to advanced university studies.
Strategic Partnerships for Community Impact
Collaboration between CCU and HGTC is a cornerstone of the region’s educational strategy, aimed at strengthening both academic and community ties. A notable partnership is the Teal & Tech Experience, designed for middle school students, which showcases diverse educational opportunities in the area. This initiative, a joint effort between CCU and HGTC, aims to engage younger students and introduce them to potential future academic and career paths. Another significant collaboration is the designation of the HGTC/CCU partnership as a SC CREATE Center, which allows full-time employees in South Carolina’s public and charter schools to receive cost-free education for teacher preparation. This program underscores a shared commitment to addressing critical workforce needs within the state, particularly in education. Both institutions also partner to celebrate local high school counselors, recognizing their role in guiding students toward higher education and workforce development.
Fostering Economic Growth and Workforce Development
Higher education institutions in Myrtle Beach are significant drivers of economic growth and workforce development. The Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC) recognizes Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College among the key colleges and universities in the greater Myrtle Beach area. CCU’s Grant Center is a notable contributor to regional economic discourse, annually hosting events such as the Economic Growth and Real Estate Summit. This summit provides a platform for discussing key economic trends and real estate developments affecting the region. Furthermore, the allocation of Penny Sales Tax revenue plays a role in supporting these institutions, with Coastal Carolina University receiving 13.3% and Horry-Georgetown Technical College receiving 6.7% of the revenue. This funding helps bolster their capacity to serve students and contribute to the local economy.
Addressing Regional Growth and Population Dynamics
The growth of Myrtle Beach’s higher education sector occurs within the context of significant regional population expansion. Horry County has experienced substantial population growth, impacting the demand for educational services. Both CCU and HGTC have been experiencing growth in student enrollment, aligning with the area’s overall demographic trends. This sustained growth highlights the importance of these institutions in accommodating the educational needs of a growing population and contributing to the overall development of the Grand Strand. Their expansion ensures that the rising number of residents have access to quality education and training opportunities locally.
Commitment to Academic Rigor and Research
Beyond student enrollment and community engagement, both Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College maintain a strong focus on academic rigor and the advancement of knowledge. Coastal Carolina University’s emphasis on challenging students to lead boldly reflects a commitment to developing future leaders who are equipped with critical thinking skills and a sense of responsibility. While HGTC primarily focuses on technical and associate degree programs, its partnerships with universities like CCU ensure seamless transitions for students pursuing higher academic goals, maintaining a high standard of preparatory education. This dedication to academic quality at all levels ensures that graduates are well-prepared for their chosen careers or further studies, embodying discipline and academic freedom.
Celebrating Student Life and Campus Engagement
Vibrant student life and robust campus engagement are integral to the educational experience at both institutions. CCU offers a dynamic university environment, inspiring students to make a difference through various campus events and organizations. HGTC provides a supportive community college setting where students can thrive in their studies and participate in campus activities. These environments are designed to foster personal growth, leadership skills, and a sense of community among students. Through diverse programs and events, both colleges cultivate an atmosphere where students are encouraged to take personal responsibility for their academic journey and actively participate in campus life, enriching their overall educational experience.
The continuing evolution of Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College underscores their vital role in shaping the future of the Myrtle Beach community and beyond. Through sustained partnerships, commitment to academic excellence, and responsive community engagement, these institutions are preparing a new generation of leaders and professionals. Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse programs offered, attend campus events, and stay informed about the impactful contributions of Myrtle Beach’s dynamic college community.
Myrtle Beach Higher Education Institutions at a Glance
| Institution | Type | Key Contributions/Focus | Partnerships | Funding Notables |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coastal Carolina University (CCU) | Four-year University | Challenges students to lead boldly, inspires difference-making, academic rigor, research (e.g., Grant Center’s Economic Growth Summit) | HGTC (Teal & Tech Experience, SC CREATE Center, counselor appreciation) | 13.3% of Penny Sales Tax revenue |
| Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) | Two-year Community/Technical College | Accessible programs across 3 campuses, diverse pathways to higher education, workforce development | CCU (Teal & Tech Experience, SC CREATE Center, counselor appreciation) | 6.7% of Penny Sales Tax revenue |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Teal & Tech Experience?
The Teal & Tech Experience is a partnership between Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College designed for middle school students to explore diverse educational opportunities.
What is the SC CREATE Center partnership between HGTC and CCU?
The HGTC/CCU partnership has been designated a SC CREATE Center, allowing full-time employees in South Carolina public and charter schools to receive cost-free education.
How do Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College contribute to economic growth in Myrtle Beach?
Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College are recognized as key colleges by the MBREDC and contribute to economic discourse through events like CCU’s Economic Growth and Real Estate Summit. They also receive Penny Sales Tax revenue.
What is the student population growth trend for higher education in Horry County?
Both Horry-Georgetown Technical College and Coastal Carolina University have been experiencing growth in student numbers, aligning with the overall population growth in Horry County.
What types of educational pathways are offered by Horry-Georgetown Technical College?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College is a two-year Community/Technical College offering diverse pathways to higher education across three campus locations in Myrtle Beach, SC.
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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.
