SIA and Mercer launch security degree program

SILVER SPRING, Md.—The Security Industry Association and Mercer County Community College announced that classes for its inaugural course of Mercer's Systems Technology associate's degree in Applied Science, are beginning this week.

“Today, physical security solutions are delivered and managed on traditional IP-based computer networks and end devices. Clearly, the need exists for specialists who understand both physical security and logical security,” SIA CEO Don Erickson said in a prepared statement. “Mercer County Community College has been the perfect partner to help the Security Industry Association begin to address that need.”

Doug Haines of the Haines Security Group will teach the first course, titled “Systems Integration: A Business Blueprint.”

In the announcement, SIA called the program a “model for community colleges across the nation.” Top students from the program may apply for internships with product manufacturers, security system integrators, and distributors.

Mercer is based in West Windsor and Trenton, N.J.

“We are excited about the participation from the security industry with the hands-on lab, and it is our intention that students implement their learning by actively working on actual security projects for the campus,” Winston Maddox, dean, business and technology, Mercer County Community College, said in the announcement. “The Security Industry Association has been a vital partner in helping this urban learning lab come to life with the generous support of its members.”

SSN first reported on the program in January 2013. Industry veteran Frank De Fina, who passed away last summer, was a key architect of the program.