Updates

Anne Arundel Community College Approves new Degrees in Homeland Security, Physics Instruction

The Anne Arundel Community College Board of Trustees has approved two new associate degree programs for those seeking careers in homeland security management and teaching physics.If approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, the Homeland Security Management Associate of Applied Science degree and Associate of Arts in Teaching -- Physics degree programs will be offered this fall.The college created the Homeland Security Management program after years of research and planning with law enforcement, security, intelligence, military, fire and rescue, healthcare, corrections, technology, human resources and emergency management professionals. The program, which will require 62 to 66 credits, will operate through the AACC Institute for Criminal Justice, Legal Studies and Public Service.Local, state and federal agencies as well as defense contractors are seeking individuals professionally trained in homeland security. The degree program prepares students for entry into the field; credits also will transfer into comparable bachelor's degree programs at four-year institutions. No similar programs currently exist in Maryland.The college developed the Associate of Arts in Teaching -- Physics degree program after research and planning to meet standards set by groups such as the National Science Teachers Association and the National Council for Accreditation of Colleges of Teacher Education.Operating through the Teacher Education and Child Care Institute, the 64-credit program addresses community needs and a workforce shortage. The Maryland State Department of Education asked colleges to develop the degree program because of teacher shortages in this area.Local, state and national data all show a shortage of qualified physics teachers, with some Maryland high schools unable to offer physics because of the shortage. Projections for the 2005-06 school year showed 52 new hires needed statewide in this field.For information on these degree programs, call 410-777-AACC or go to www.aacc.edu. Anne Arundel Community College NewsContacts: Debbie McDaniel-Shaughney, Public Relations ManagerPhone: (410) 777-7259Email: dmshaughney@aacc.eduLinda Schulte, Director, Public Relations and Marketing