Advanced Placement Courses: 

AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Human Geography, AP European History, AP United States History, AP Government, AP Microeconomics, AP English Language, AP English Literature, AP Seminar, AP Research, AP Music Theory, AP Psychology, AP Spanish Language, AP German, AP Computer Science A, AP Art History, AP Art 2D Design, AP Art 3D Design, AP Drawing

Honors Courses: 

English 1, 2, 3, & 4, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra 2,  Pre-Calculus, Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, US History, Spanish 3 & 4, German 3 & 4, PLTW Principles of Biomedical Science, PLTW Human Body Systems, PLTW Medical Interventions, PLTW Biomedical Innovation, PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design, PLTW Principles of Engineering, PLTW Civil Engineering and Architecture, PLTW Aerospace Engineering, PLTW Cybersecurity 

Note:  English 1 H, Algebra 1 H and Geometry H are recommended in middle school for the IB Program.  Please see link above for sample 4-year plan of study.

The ECHS Student Profile:

• student must be a first-generation college  (parents cannot have a 4-year degree / 2-year degree is fine)

• student cannot be identified as GT (Gifted and Talented), but must meet math and reading criteria in order to demonstrate skills necessary to be successful with challenging course work.

• student must meet the citizenship criteria required by Horry Georgetown Technical College (HGTC)
  
  

• meet both the math and reading criteria by the end of the first semester of 8th grade year (below criteria is based on last year's scoring rubric / test score criteria may change from year to year)

  • Math:  iReady Scale Score of 515 (60th percentile) or 7th grade SC Ready Score of Meets or Exceeds

  • Reading:  Lexile of at least 900 or Reading iReady Scale Score of 617 (50th percentile) or 7th grade SC Ready Score of Meets or Exceeds

The HCS Scholars Academy (SA or SAHS) was established in 2003 through a partnership between Horry County Schools (HCS) and Coastal Carolina University (CCU) to provide advanced learners with a quality education in a supportive learning environment. Its mission is to educate these students at a rate and with the level of academic rigor commensurate with their abilities, so that they graduate as confident, responsible, lifelong learners who are prepared to succeed in higher education and in the world beyond.

The HCS Scholars Academy minimum entrance requirements include completion of Algebra I and English I. Completion of Geometry is also strongly recommended.

 
The student selection criteria include PSAT scores, statewide test data, grades, and discipline records.  From approximately 200 student applicants, 60 students will be invited to write a timed essay for review by District Office personnel.  Approximately 50 students will then be selected for each incoming class at HCS Scholars Academy.

Timeline and Application Information