College brings computer science classroom to students.

Rivier College has launched new online bachelor's degrees programs in computer science and information technology and a master's degree program in computer science.

In addition to being offered entirely online, the programs also are offered in a hybrid format, making use of both online and face-to-face classroom instruction.

The online bachelor's degrees in computer science and information technology include a degree completion option, allowing students to transfer up to 90 credits into the program. The new master's degree in computer science offers four concentrations: information technology; software development; Web and database development; and an option to design your own concentration.

In addition to using Blackboard, the computer science programs employ Web conferencing software called LearnLinc, a tool tailored to support "live" online learning through integration of audio and video over the Internet, text messaging, an interactive white board, synchronized browsing and application sharing.

LearnLinc sessions transform online classes into engaging, participatory, and personalized learning environments.

Rivier also is offering an online certificate in homeland security/emergency and disaster management, which is designed to train individuals to respond to a variety of emergency situations, including terrorist attacks and natural disasters.

"We're committed to training the professionals and volunteers who heroically respond to emergency situations, at local, regional and national levels," said Dr. Joseph Allard, vice president for academic outreach.

The five-course online certificate equips students to develop creative approaches to problem solving, and includes educational components in homeland security, emergency management, crisis communications, and disaster recovery. Students analyze procedures that have worked and those that have not worked in actual disasters and emergencies. Multidisciplinary courses enhance management, reasoning, and communication skills.

Rivier's online certificate program is listed on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Higher Education Project Web page, and is the only program of its kind in New Hampshire.

For more information, visit rivier.edu.