HGTC, Francis Marion University establish transfer pathway for forestry students
April 8, 2026
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) and Francis Marion University (FMU) have established a new transfer partnership that creates a seamless pathway for students pursuing careers in forestry.
Through a newly signed Memorandum of Agreement, students who complete HGTC’s Associate of Applied Science in Forestry Management Technology will have a direct pathway to continue their education and earn a Bachelor of Science in Forestry at FMU. This 2+2 transfer agreement is designed to expand access to higher education opportunities while strengthening the workforce pipeline in forestry and natural resources across South Carolina.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to student success and workforce development,” said Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, president of Horry-Georgetown Technical College. “By creating a clear and affordable pathway from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree, we are helping our students advance their education and pursue meaningful careers in a critical industry.”
Under the agreement, HGTC will provide the foundational coursework required for the associate degree, while FMU will accept eligible transfer credits and provide students with a structured pathway to complete their bachelor’s degree. Students who meet admission requirements will benefit from coordinated advising, clearly defined course equivalencies, and a streamlined transition between the two institutions.
The agreement also includes a reverse transfer option, allowing students who transfer to FMU before completing their associate degree to apply eligible coursework back toward completion of their HGTC credential.
FMU will provide admissions preference to qualified HGTC graduates and ensure that transferred coursework aligns with degree requirements. Both institutions will continue to collaborate on curriculum alignment and student support to ensure long-term success.
“I always enjoy announcing another partnership with HGTC. They are a fine institution with innovative programs and visionary leadership,” said Dr. Fred Carter, president of Francis Marion University. “We are proud to work with them in meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in the forestry profession.”
HGTC’s Forestry Management Technology program is one of the few programs of its kind in South Carolina, preparing students for careers as forest technicians and natural resource professionals. This agreement enhances those opportunities by providing a clear pathway to advanced study and expanded career potential.
For more information about the Forestry Management Technology program at HGTC or transfer opportunities to FMU, visit www.hgtc.edu.
About Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is a public, two-year college serving Horry and Georgetown counties with campuses located along the Grand Strand in Conway, Myrtle Beach, and Georgetown, South Carolina. A member of the South Carolina Technical College System, HGTC offers more than 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, including many online options, designed to prepare students for careers or transfer to four-year colleges and universities. The College also provides workforce development programs that support regional economic growth. HGTC is the fourth-largest of South Carolina’s 16 technical colleges and among the fastest-growing higher education institutions in the state. For more information, visit www.hgtc.edu.
About FMU
Francis Marion University is a four-year public institution located in Florence, South Carolina. Committed to providing high-quality, affordable education to students from the Pee Dee region and beyond, FMU offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs through the College of Liberal Arts, School of Business, School of Education, and School of Health Sciences. For additional information about FMU, visit www.fmarion.edu or call 843-661-1231.
