Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is a prominent community college located in the beautiful coastal region of South Carolina. Established in 1966, the college serves Horry and Georgetown counties, providing accessible higher education and workforce development opportunities to a diverse student body. With a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the region, HGTC offers over 70 programs of study, including associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in various fields such as business, health sciences, and technology. The college's emphasis on hands-on learning and practical experience equips students with the skills necessary for successful careers, making it an important contributor to the local economy.

The college prides itself on its supportive and inclusive campus culture, which fosters personal and professional growth among students. HGTC's faculty consists of experienced professionals dedicated to student success, ensuring that learners receive quality instruction and mentorship throughout their educational journey. The college also offers various student services, including academic advising, career counseling, and extracurricular activities, which help to create a vibrant campus life. Additionally, HGTC's strategic location near Myrtle Beach provides students with unique recreational opportunities and a vibrant community atmosphere, further enriching their college experience. As a result, HGTC not only prepares students for immediate employment but also instills a lifelong love for learning and personal development.

Analysis of Horry-Georgetown Technical College Data

The data from Horry-Georgetown Technical College reveals notable trends that reflect the dynamics of higher education costs, student demographics, and graduation rates over the years. One of the most significant observations is the increase in tuition fees for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students, which has seen a substantial rise from $4,504 in 2014 to $5,476 in 2024 for in-state students and from $6,294 to $8,836 for out-of-state students. This trend mirrors the broader national concern regarding rising college costs, making affordability a critical issue for prospective students and families.

Additionally, the student population has generally declined from 2014 to 2021, dropping from 7,660 to 6,409, before experiencing a rise to 8,137 in 2023. This fluctuation may indicate changing enrollment patterns influenced by economic factors, demographic shifts, or institutional adjustments. The student-to-faculty ratio has also shown variability, reflecting possible changes in faculty hiring practices or enrollment levels, being as low as 20:1 and as high as 24:1 during the observed years.

Another crucial aspect is the graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which rose from approximately 6.57% in 2014 to about 18.12% in 2023. This significant improvement suggests that the institution has potentially enhanced its academic support services, helping students to complete their degrees more efficiently. Conversely, the retention rate demonstrated an upward trend from 44.4% in 2021 to 63.0% in 2023, indicating that more students are choosing to remain at the college, which could be attributed to improved student engagement and support systems.

In conclusion, Horry-Georgetown Technical College's data illustrates the complexities of maintaining enrollment while managing rising costs and improving student outcomes. These factors are critical for the college's strategic planning and for prospective students evaluating their educational options.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Horry-Georgetown Technical College

The graduation data from Horry-Georgetown Technical College for 2023 reveals significant insights into the distribution of degrees across various programs. Notably, the majority of graduates received an associate's degree, with a total of 648 graduates, while there were no bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees awarded. This trend suggests a strong emphasis on vocational training and community college education, which is critical in meeting the workforce demands in various sectors, particularly in healthcare and technical fields.

Among the associate degree programs, the highest number of graduates was in Liberal Arts and Sciences, with 283 graduates, indicating a robust interest in general education and the foundational skills it provides. In contrast, specialized programs such as Registered Nursing and Physical Therapy Assistant also saw substantial numbers, with 112 and 25 graduates, respectively. This reflects the growing demand for healthcare professionals, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing global health crisis, prompting an increased focus on health-related education.

Interestingly, international students constituted a minimal presence, with only a handful graduating in Design and Visual Communications. This could point to barriers such as visa regulations or the affordability of international education, leading to a lack of diversity in the student body.

This data underscores the importance of community colleges in providing accessible education and training in essential fields, while also highlighting the need for strategies to attract and support international students to enrich the educational experience. As the labor market continues to evolve, institutions must adapt their offerings to align with the skills and knowledge demanded by employers.

Student Demographics at Horry-Georgetown Technical College in 2023

The student composition at Horry-Georgetown Technical College reveals insightful demographic trends for the year 2023. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 1,290, with a notable gender distribution indicating that 43.3% are male and 56.7% are female. This suggests an environment that is slightly more favorable to female students, which is a trend often observed in higher education institutions across the United States.

In contrast, the population of undergraduate juniors stands at 4,901, showcasing a significant gender disparity; with only 31.5% male and 68.5% female students. This disproportion may point to a growing trend of female students pursuing higher education at a greater rate than their male counterparts, a phenomenon documented in various academic studies over the years.

The data for undergraduate transfer students shows that there are 590 individuals, with 35.9% being male and 64.1% female. These figures maintain the trend of a higher female presence in the student population.

Lastly, the demographic breakdown of the student body also encompasses various ethnic groups, although specific details on the distribution within these categories remain sparse. Overall, the gender ratios across different student categories reflect a broader national trend where female enrollment in higher education continues to rise, leading to discussions about the implications for workforce diversity and educational policies moving forward.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Horry-Georgetown Technical College

The age distribution of students at Horry-Georgetown Technical College reveals some intriguing insights into the demographic profile of the institution. A significant portion of the student body, particularly among undergraduates, is comprised of individuals under the age of 24. Specifically, students aged 18-19 account for the largest group, with 928 males and 1199 females, illustrating the college's appeal to traditional-age college students.

As students progress to the 20-21 age bracket, the numbers slightly decrease, with 508 males and 751 females. This trend continues with younger adults in the 22-24 age range, where the figures show a notable decline in male enrollment (302), while female enrollment remains robust (675). This pattern suggests a potential shift in educational pursuits or challenges that may lead to a drop in male participation as they transition into adulthood.

Interestingly, the data shows a steady decline in enrollment among older age groups, with the numbers dwindling significantly in the 30-34 and 35-39 brackets, where male students drop to 157 and 85, respectively. This trend raises questions about the barriers faced by non-traditional students, such as family responsibilities or job commitments, which might deter them from pursuing further education.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of understanding age demographics in shaping educational programs and support services, as well as tailoring outreach efforts to engage a broader range of students, particularly those who are older and may have different educational needs and motivations.

Declining International Student Enrollment at Horry-Georgetown Technical College

The data presented reveals a concerning trend in the enrollment of international students at Horry-Georgetown Technical College over nearly two decades. Starting with a modest percentage of 1.64% in 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students reached a peak of 2.17% in 2007. However, this figure has significantly declined since then, plummeting to a mere 0.22% by 2023, despite an increase in the total undergraduate student population.

This trend is alarming and suggests various underlying factors that may be contributing to the decreased appeal of the college for international students. Challenges such as visa restrictions, global political climates, economic factors, and competition from other institutions may play a crucial role. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a lasting impact on international education, causing many potential students to reconsider their study abroad plans.

The diminishing representation of international students can lead to a less diverse campus environment, which is detrimental not just to the cultural fabric of the college but also to the educational experience of domestic students. A diverse student body enriches learning through varied perspectives and experiences.

It is imperative for Horry-Georgetown Technical College to reassess its recruitment strategies and support systems for international students to reverse this downward trend. Engaging with potential students through virtual platforms, enhancing scholarship opportunities, and fostering partnerships with international institutions could prove beneficial in revitalizing international enrollment. The need for action is urgent to ensure that the college remains a competitive and welcoming destination for students from around the world.

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Horry-Georgetown Technical College:

1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its strong programs in law, business, and medicine, Duke offers a vibrant campus life and is a member of the Ivy League of the South.

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - As the 22nd ranked university in the nation, UNC Chapel Hill is renowned for its research excellence and strong undergraduate programs. It has a rich history and is known for its beautiful campus and spirited athletic programs.

3. North Carolina State University at Raleigh - Ranked 60th in the nation, NC State is recognized for its engineering and technology programs. The university fosters a collaborative environment and is located in the vibrant city of Raleigh, which is part of the Research Triangle.

4. Wake Forest University - With a ranking of 47, Wake Forest is known for its small class sizes and emphasis on liberal arts education. It offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a close-knit community.

5. Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson University is known for its engineering, business, and agriculture programs. The university boasts a beautiful campus and a strong commitment to research and innovation.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in various fields of study.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Horry-Georgetown Technical College

The crime statistics at Horry-Georgetown Technical College reveal notable fluctuations over the years. In 2013, the campus recorded a relatively low crime rate of 0.26 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a generally safe environment. However, as we progress to 2017, there is a significant uptick, with the crime rate peaking at 1.85 per 1,000 students. This surge warrants attention, as it could suggest a rise in criminal activities or perhaps an increase in reporting and awareness among the campus community.

The data shows a decline in crime rates following this peak, with 2018 and 2019 reporting rates of 0.71 and 0.74 respectively. Interestingly, 2021 and 2023 show some of the lowest crime rates at 0.16 and 0.12 per 1,000 students, respectively. This downward trend indicates potential improvements in campus safety measures or changes in student behavior towards crime.

Particularly concerning are the incidents of violent offenses such as domestic violence and assaults, which contribute to the overall sense of safety on campus. The absence of serious crimes like murder or rape in the data is a positive sign, suggesting that while there are minor offenses, the more severe crimes remain low.

Overall, while the fluctuations in crime rates demonstrate some challenges, the recent trends indicate a positive movement towards a safer campus. Continuous efforts in crime prevention and community awareness are essential in maintaining and improving these favorable statistics. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, the following link provides useful insights: Crime Rate Calculation Method.