Howard Community College, Columbia
Overview
Howard Community College (HCC) is a public community college located in Columbia, Maryland. Established in 1970, HCC provides a broad array of academic programs and workforce development training to nearly 22,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It plays a critical role in the community by offering associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education. The college has been recognized as one of the top two-year colleges in the United States and has a significant economic impact on Howard County.
Recent Developments
- November 7, 2024: HCC received a $50,000 grant from the Truist Foundation to enhance its Workforce Development and Trades Center. This grant will facilitate the establishment of career pathways through advanced technology and equipment in various industrial training programs.
- October 24, 2024: HCC announced a five-year partnership with NIKE and BSN Sports, making them the exclusive apparel and equipment suppliers for Dragon Athletics. This exclusive agreement is unique among Maryland community colleges.
- October 2, 2024: The groundbreaking ceremony for HCC’s Workforce Development and Trades Center was attended by government officials, including National Cyber Director Harry Coker Jr. The center is expected to open in fall 2026.
- July 2024: In partnership with Capitol Technology University, HCC began a program to admit associate degree graduates into select bachelor's programs, emphasizing a seamless transition for students continuing in STEM fields.
- June 2024: HCC reopened its on-campus Children’s Learning Center, enhancing childcare support for student parents, supported by a $1 million federal grant aimed at reopening pivotal student-parent facilities.
- April 2024: The college joined the Achieving the Dream Network to improve retention and graduation rates through collaborative best practices.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1970 |
| Headquarters | Columbia, Maryland |
| Founders | Howard County Government (formerly known as the Board of Community College Trustees) |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Non-profit |
| Key Investors | State of Maryland, Howard County, federal grants |
| Industry | Higher Education |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 1,300 |
Early History
Howard Community College was established in 1970 as part of an initiative to provide accessible higher education to residents of Howard County, Maryland. The college started with a limited number of programs and a few hundred students. Over the years, HCC expanded its academic offerings, infrastructure, and student services, responding to the growing educational needs of the community. Significant early milestones included the construction of new facilities and the introduction of distance learning programs. HCC's evolution reflects its commitment to adapting to educational trends and the workforce needs of the region.
Company Profile and Achievements
Howard Community College offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees, certificate courses, and extensive workforce development and training sessions. The college is committed to supporting local economic growth and has been recognized for its educational excellence.
- Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award: HCC received this prestigious award, underscoring its commitment to performance excellence.
- Workforce Development Initiatives: Through partnerships with businesses and industries, HCC has become a leader in apprenticeship programs across cybersecurity, healthcare, and construction.
- Diversity and Inclusion: With students hailing from over 104 countries, HCC emphasizes a multicultural educational environment.
- Dual Enrollment Programs: HCC has developed substantial dual enrollment agreements with local high schools, notably increasing student retention and enrollment.
- Innovative Education: The college continues to explore cutting-edge educational opportunities in fields like green technologies and advanced manufacturing.
- Expansion Plans: With ongoing developments like the Workforce Development and Trades Center, HCC is focused on expanding its role in skilled trades education.
Current Operations and Market Position
Howard Community College is operationally robust, emphasizing student success through versatile academic programs and extensive student services. As a pioneer in workforce development and community engagement, HCC maintains strategic partnerships that support its mission of fostering educational and economic development in Howard County and beyond. The college's efforts in cybersecurity training and skilled trades are pivotal to its competitive advantage, fulfilling local and national workforce needs. Continued investment in facilities and strategic initiatives reinforces HCC’s position as a leading educational institution.
Conclusion
Howard Community College serves as a critical educational pillar in Howard County, contributing both to the local economy and to societal advancement through education and training. Its ongoing initiatives to enhance academic curricula, develop state-of-the-art facilities, and foster inclusive and diverse learning environments underscore its commitment to student success. Looking forward, HCC aims to continue growing its impact through expanded facilities like the Workforce Development and Trades Center, ensuring it meets future educational and workforce demands effectively.