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兔子先生 President Dr. Marilyn 鈥淢urph鈥� Fore (left) and Coastal Carolina University President Dr. James Winebrake (right) sign a transfer agreement establishing a new business pathway between the two institutions.
Pictured from left: Dr. Theresa M. Strong, assistant vice president and dean, School of Business, Computer Technology, English, Math, and Personal Services, Horry-Georgetown Technical College; Dr. Lori Heafner, vice president for academic affairs, Horry-Georgetown Technical College; Dr. Marilyn 鈥淢urph鈥� Fore, president, Horry-Georgetown Technical College; Dr. James Winebrake, president, Coastal Carolina University; and Dr. Monica Fine, associate dean, E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration, Coastal Carolina University
Coastal Carolina University and Horry鈥慓eorgetown Technical College (HGTC) have launched a new academic partnership that creates a seamless transfer pathway for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
The agreement establishes an efficient transfer pathway for HGTC students completing an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in business administration, provided they complete the coursework specified in the agreement, allowing them to transition into CCU鈥檚 undergraduate business program and pursue advanced academic and professional opportunities.
The partnership positions both institutions to better support workforce needs across South Carolina by expanding access to high-quality business education and creating a more direct pipeline of skilled graduates prepared to contribute to the region鈥檚 economy. By reducing barriers to degree completion and aligning academic programs, CCU and HGTC are strengthening opportunities for students while addressing evolving industry demands.
鈥淭he CCU HGTC business transfer pathway was designed as a true 2+2 education model that honors the work students have already completed,鈥� said Monica Fine, Ph.D., associate dean of the E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration. 鈥淚t ensures a smooth transition, preserves academic progress, reduces the overall cost of earning a business degree for local students, and prepares graduates to step confidently into the regional workforce.鈥�
Designed with student success and academic continuity at its core, the collaboration offers expanded course equivalencies and clearly defined credit鈥憈ransfer expectations, helping students maintain momentum toward degree completion while minimizing the potential loss of earned credits. CCU will accept applicable transfer credits, provide additional course equivalencies, and allow students to earn upper-division business credit through CCU-administered competency assessments at no cost. Eligible students may also be exempt from core curriculum requirements based on completed general education coursework.
鈥淭his articulation agreement creates a clear pathway for our students to continue their education and achieve their long-term career goals,鈥� said Theresa Strong, Ph.D., assistant vice president and dean of the School of Business, Computer Technology, English, Math, and Personal Services at HGTC. 鈥淏y aligning our Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration with Coastal Carolina University鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, it creates a seamless transition from HGTC to Coastal Carolina University, removes barriers, preserves credits, and prepares our students to succeed at the next level.鈥�
Developed through collaboration among faculty, staff, and administrators from both institutions, the partnership will welcome transfers as early as Summer 2026. The agreement will be reviewed annually and reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality, affordable higher education. By strengthening transfer pathways, CCU and HGTC are increasing the reach and impact of their programs, supporting the success of future graduates of the AAS in Business Administration.