Residential Bridge Program unveiled
The Bridge Program is a competitive academic-enhancement transfer program that supports students in their academic career. Students begin taking courses at HGTC during their freshman year to prepare them for successful transfer to Coastal Carolina University.
Residential Bridge students will live in University Place, one of the University's residence halls, and have access to most campus life programs including: intramural activities, student clubs and organizations, shuttle transportation, sports events, health and counseling services. After students complete 21 transferable credit hours with a 2.5 grade point average, the transfer is automatic to Coastal Carolina University.
"The Bridge program will present students with a seamless transfer option between our two colleges and at the same time provide all of the support services and activities available at a major university" said Dave Evans, assistant provost at Coastal Carolina University and director of the Bridge Program. "This program is for students who might not otherwise be able to attend a four-year higher education program. HGTC offers the courses necessary to bring students up to speed academically and prepare them for a university academic experience."
Paying lower tuition to the technical college for the first year is also a good way to save money during these lean economic times, Evans said. Bridge students will be required to live on the University campus with other freshmen, unless their home is within a 50-mile radius.
Applications to the program must be made before May 1 and enrollment is by invitation only. Participation is limited, and students will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Most Bridge students will be selected through the usual Coastal Carolina University admissions process, but some are expected to apply directly to HGTC, Evans said.
For more information, contact Michele Varga, Bridge transition coordinator, at 843-349-7869 or mvarga@coastal.edu.