ACC Announces Two New Computer Degree Programs

When your computer crashes, or when hackers break into your computer system, who are you going to call?

The answer is simple: the help desk or a computer security specialist. And if you want the comprehensive, specialized training to handle the tasks yourself, the answer is just as simple: ACC, the first local college to offer training in the areas of help desk and computer security.

Starting this fall, Austin Community College will offer two new career choices in the area of computer studies: Associate of Applied Science Degree in User and Desktop Support and Associate of Applied Science Degree in Security Administration Specialization.

The user and desktop support program is designed to prepare students for technical support positions. The curriculum includes courses on customer service, troubleshooting, installation and configuration of user software.

Students enrolled in the security administration specialization program will develop skills in system security analysis, design and creation of secure systems. They will also learn how to troubleshoot security problems, conduct and document forensic investigations and to develop, implement and maintain an organizational security plan and policy. In order to provide its students with the latest in computer security practices and real-world examples, ACC looked to Veridyn, Inc., an Austin based security consultancy, to help develop content for the new programs.

“According to a recent study from ISC2 and IDC, the demand for qualified IT security professionals is expected to grow at 12 percent per year for the next 3 years,” said Steve Hardwick, vice president Security Solutions, of Veridyn, Inc. “This new security degree program is another example of how ACC adapts its course offerings to meet dynamic industry demands and better prepare its students for successful careers in the business world.”

“It’s no secret that the security of computer systems is important and becoming more important every day,” said Mary Kohls, ACC Computer Studies Department chair. “At the same time, businesses are becoming increasingly dependent on their employees’ access to their computers; it just makes good sense to have well-trained on-site support. ACC is excited to be the first institution in the area to provide such niche training to meet the needs of Central Texas employers.”

Austin, TX based Veridyn Inc. () is a top-tier security consulting firm specializing in information security regulations. Its engineers have decades of experience and are credentialed in all facets of security. They perform security risk assessments, policy development and training for organizations in regulated industries.

Austin Community College is a public, two-year college offering associate degrees and certificates in more than 180 areas at six Central Texas campuses. Serving as the regional leader in workforce training, university transfer and adult access programs, ACC opens its doors each year to more than 65,000 credit and continuing education students who benefit from the College’s great faculty and staff. For more information, visit .

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