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HGTC Launches New IT Project Management Advanced Certificate for Fall

(Conway, SC) 06/13/2024

IT Project Management Launch 

(left to right) Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore, HGTC President; Dr. Sean Grainger, Associate Director for Public Safety Consulting at AT&T and HGTC Adjunct Faculty for Business; Dr. Theresa Strong, HGTC Assistant Vice President & Dean

Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is thrilled to announce the launch of a new Information Technology (IT) Project Management Advanced Certificate, commencing in the Fall ’24 semester. The program will provide students with comprehensive exposure to information technology and its critical role in the modern business environment. Eligible students will receive South Carolina Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SC•WINS) funding to cover tuition.

The curriculum covers essential skills in IT project planning and coordination, networking concepts, IT security fundamentals, and Voice over IP (VoIP) fundamentals. Additionally, students will delve into the Project Management Professional (PMP) framework and risk analysis, preparing for entry-level roles as project coordinators on IT development projects and to sit for the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) exam.  The program is a 27-credit hour certificate designed to be completed within four (4) semesters or less. 

“We are excited to introduce this advanced certificate program, which reflects our commitment to equipping students with the practical skills needed in today’s tech-driven economy,” said Dr. Theresa Strong, HGTC Assistant Vice President & Dean.  “The IT Project Management Advanced Certificate is tailored to meet the needs of students and the demands of the industry, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the IT sector.”

Admission to the program requires at least an associate degree or higher, ensuring that all participants have a foundational level of education and experience. Graduates of the program will have a deep understanding of project management within the IT industry, making them valuable assets in various sectors including telecommunications, healthcare, insurance, technology corporations, financial institutions, and government agencies.

“Launching this certificate program is a significant step forward for our institution and our students,” stated Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore, HGTC President. “It embodies our mission to provide education that is both relevant and forward-thinking, enabling our students to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. We are proud to offer a program that not only meets the current demands of the industry but also anticipates future trends.”

The mission of the IT Project Management Advanced Certificate program is to provide a robust foundation of financial and management courses, supplemented by core project management, computer and information technology concepts, and security, as well as evolving industry trends.

“As a director of project management services in the industry, I confidently endorse the new Advanced Certificate in IT Project Management. This unique program, available at the associate degree level, bridges a significant gap in our educational landscape. As someone who regularly faces the challenge of finding qualified resources for effective IT project management, I appreciate how this certificate program meets that critical demand.  The curriculum strikes a perfect balance between theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring that graduates are not only academically prepared but also industry ready. By emphasizing real-world application, students gain invaluable insights and practical skills that directly translate to their careers. In a rapidly evolving industry, programs like this are essential for staying ahead,” said Dr. Sean Grainger, Associate Director for Public Safety Consulting at AT&T and Adjunct Faculty member at HGTC.

The program’s goals include developing students' competencies in financial and managerial functions, project management related to the IT industry, computer and information technology concepts and security, effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the program promotes professional behaviors and lifelong learning, while effectively meeting the community's needs for entry-level positions requiring project management functions.

“I’m particularly excited about this initiative because it represents a proactive step toward cultivating a new generation of IT project managers who can lead, innovate, and drive success in today’s competitive market. HGTC’s commitment to providing high-quality, relevant education shines through in this certificate program, addressing the needs of both students and employers," continued Dr. Grainger.

To learn more about HGTC’s IT Project Management Advanced Certificate and earn the certificate with Zero Tuition, visit the program webpage or contact Dr. Theresa Strong, HGTC Assistant Vice President & Dean, at 843-349-7559 or theresa.strong@hgtc.edu