Harford Community College

Higher Education

"Consider Harford first" has become the mantra of Harford Community College (HCC), and the wisdom of that advice has been validated by the testimonials and accomplishments of many former students. Moreover, Maryland Higher Education Commission data indicated that HCC graduates transferring to Maryland’s senior institutions had the highest average GPA their first year, of all the state’s community colleges.

With its strong emphasis on integrity and excellence, Harford represents one of the greatest values in education anywhere. This outstanding institution of higher learning boasts of board members, faculty, administrators and staff whose impressive credentials, foresight and diligence assure that HCC will stay on the cutting edge of education and cultural development.

Because of generous state and county aid, Harford tuition represents only about one-third of actual education costs, reducing the necessity for student loans. Other financial help includes scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.

“The college is considered a community jewel because its impressive presence, flexible policies and dynamic programs greatly enhance the experience of living in Harford County.”

Harford enrollment constantly climbs and, with recent economic downturns, the increase is even steeper as more people return to school to sharpen skills or obtain degrees. Additionally, the Base Realignment and Closure Act is causing thousands of people to be relocated to Aberdeen Proving Ground in Harford County.

Workforce development and lifelong learning are important aspects of the college’s mission. As a dynamic and flexible institution, its strategic plan and initiatives anticipate and respond to changing demographics and needs. An example is Harford’s accelerating emphasis in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics—STEM education.

To bolster efficiency, academic divisions have been realigned to combine degree and certificate programs of study which prepare students to seek advanced degrees, compete in national and international marketplaces or take advantage of local employment opportunities. Related improvements have included the renovation and expansion of campus buildings and the planned construction of new buildings in an area adjacent to its present campus. The initial structure is to be a Towson University building, allowing students to complete bachelor’s degrees without having to leave the county.

Building infrastructures look to the future and already accommodate a wireless campus. Smart boards are in every classroom and library computers are available to all students and the general community.

When it is said that Harford has the greenest campus in Maryland, the reference is to more than its lush landscape. HCC President,Dennis Golladay, Ph.D. clarifies, “Harford has been recognized for its commitment to the environment by being named one of the greenest campuses in the country.” Environmentally oriented sustainable practices have been imbedded into the college’s strategic plan as well as into its curriculum.

Thousands of students enroll in the hundreds of online courses offered by HCC and others choose hybrid options, combining online and classroom sessions. Besides credit courses and degrees, HCC offers cultural events, performances, recreational activities, children’s camps, and noncredit courses for continuing education, training purposes, personal growth and just for fun.

“The college is considered a community jewel because its impressive presence, flexible policies and dynamic programs greatly enhance the experience of living in Harford County,” says Nancy Dysard, Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

Harford Community College
401 Thomas Run Road
Bel Air, MD 21015
443-412-2000

www.harford.edu

Pictured: Harford Community College students on library lawn
Photography: Coyle Studios