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HGTC and Francis Marion University Announce New Criminal Justice Transfer Agreement
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) and Francis Marion University (FMU) have signed a new transfer agreement that creates a seamless pathway for HGTC students earning an Associate in Applied Science in Criminal Justice to transfer into FMU’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (Law, Justice and Institutions Track) with a minor in Political Science.
The memorandum of agreement establishes a clear 2+2 completion program, allowing graduates of HGTC’s Criminal Justice program to transfer up to 76 credit hours toward FMU’s bachelor’s degree. The partnership is designed to expand higher education access, strengthen the regional criminal justice workforce, and create new opportunities for students across Horry and Georgetown counties.
Under the agreement, HGTC will provide the foundational coursework for the associate degree, offer academic advising to prepare students for transfer, and support recruitment and outreach efforts. FMU will grant admissions preference to HGTC Criminal Justice graduates, accept articulated coursework, and assign advisors to guide transfer students through degree completion.
The collaboration also includes coordinated curriculum alignment, shared student support services where feasible, and joint efforts to ensure smooth transitions between institutions.
HGTC President, Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore, praised the partnership as an important step in expanding educational opportunity for students pursuing careers in law enforcement, public service, and the justice system.
“This partnership with Francis Marion University strengthens the pathway for students who begin their education at HGTC and aspire to advance into leadership positions within the criminal justice field. By creating a seamless and supportive transfer experience, we are expanding access, reducing barriers, and ensuring that our graduates have every opportunity to earn a high-quality bachelor’s degree. We are proud to work alongside FMU to meet workforce needs and help students achieve their goals,” Dr. Fore said.
President of Francis Marion University, Dr. Fred Carter, emphasized FMU’s commitment to supporting transfer students and strengthening relationships with regional partners.
“We are delighted to welcome HGTC Criminal Justice graduates into Francis Marion University’s bachelor’s degree program. HGTC has a long history of preparing talented, motivated students, and this agreement ensures they can continue their academic journey with confidence and clarity. Together, our institutions are creating a powerful pathway that supports student success, promotes public service careers, and strengthens the communities we serve,” said Dr. Carter.
Through the 2+2 completion structure:
- HGTC students complete 66 credits in the Associate in Applied Science in Criminal Justice (General Transfer Emphasis).
- FMU accepts up to 76 total transfer credits, including general education and Criminal Justice coursework.
- Students receive joint advising beginning at HGTC to ensure proper course selection and program progression.
- Certain core curriculum requirements for FMU may be fulfilled at either institution.
Students must complete the associate degree, earn a grade of C or higher in applicable courses, meet FMU admission requirements, and consult with an FMU advisor prior to enrolling in upper-level coursework.
Both institutions share a commitment to preparing well-qualified professionals for careers in law enforcement, courts, corrections, and public service. By aligning curriculum and reducing duplication of coursework, the agreement shortens time to degree completion and lowers cost for students seeking advanced credentials.
For more information about the HGTC Criminal Justice Technology program, please contact, Dr. Dan Wysong, HGTC Assistant Vice President and Dean, at dan.wysong@hgtc.edu, Dr. Larry Muncey, HGTC Assistant Chair & Professor, at larry.muncey@hgtc.edu, or Kenneth Hofmann, HGTC Associate Professor, at kenneth.hofmann@hgtc.edu.