New CofC Program Opens Pathway for Technical College Students

^{Above: (front, l–r) HGTC President Marilyn “Murph” Fore with CofC Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost Suzanne Austin, and (back, l–r) HGTC School of Business, Computer Technology, and Personal Service Dean Theresa Strong; HCTC Executive Vice President for Academic and Workforce Development Jennifer Wilbanks; CofC School of Business Dean Paul Schwager; and CofC Associate Provost for Academic and International Programs Mark Del Mastro.}

Students at select South Carolina technical colleges now have a simpler path to a four-year degree from the College of Charleston through the new EPIC Scholars program.

Launched by the College of Charleston School of Business, the Educational Partnerships to Increase Completion (EPIC) Scholars program offers South Carolina technical college students in specific degree programs direct admission into its online Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) program.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding access and supporting student success across South Carolina,” says Suzanne Austin, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost at the College of Charleston. “By creating a clear path to the College of Charleston, we are helping more students reach their goals as we strengthen the state’s workforce.”

The B.P.S. offers a flexible, fully online format, providing students a streamlined pathway to earn a bachelor’s degree while continuing to work. EPIC Scholars are guaranteed admission into the B.P.S. program, bypass program prerequisites, receive a 20% tuition discount and a merit scholarship, and benefit from student support and academic success practices like personalized career planning and “Design Your Life” coaching.

“The EPIC Scholars program creates new opportunities for students to complete their degrees,” says Paul Schwager, dean of the College of Charleston School of Business. “We are proud to help prepare the next generation of leaders for the state’s evolving economy, making a four-year degree more accessible.”

A recent signing ceremony with Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) marked the official launch of the program. HGTC is the first of multiple partnerships planned with technical colleges statewide.

“We are excited to offer our students this opportunity to continue their education at one of the most prestigious institutions in South Carolina,” says Theresa Strong, dean of the HGTC School of Business, Computer Technology, and Personal Service. “This partnership will not only benefit our students, but also contribute to the development of a highly skilled workforce in our region.”

To learn more about the EPIC Scholars program, visit go.charleston.edu/EPIC.