Maryland EARN Grant: Accelerated IT & Cybersecurity Credential Classes
Maryland EARN Grant: Accelerated IT & Cybersecurity Credential Classes
Thanks to continued support from our partners, the Maryland Department of Labor has renewed the EARN Grant for several more years. The grant allows IT and cybersecurity professionals to take accelerated credential classes that earn college credits and prepare participants for industry certifications.
Program Highlights:
Classes are four-week accelerated sessions, with the same credit value as semester-long courses.
Designed for employees already working in IT/Cybersecurity; prerequisites are waived.
Classes are remote and instructor-led, typically two evenings a week, with additional work completed independently.
Each class prepares participants for the associated industry certification.
Available Classes:
DCOM 215 – Ethical Hacking and System Defense (PenTest+)
Learn penetration testing methodology, exploit vulnerabilities, develop mitigation strategies, and prepare for the CompTIA PenTest+ certification.DCOM 224 – Advanced Linux Administration (Linux+)
Gain advanced Linux OS knowledge, install and configure systems, manage security, and prepare for the CompTIA Linux+ certification.DCOM 251 – Local Area Networks (Network+)
Hands-on experience with LAN planning, installation, maintenance, and management. Prepares for CompTIA Network+ certification.DCOM 258 – Introduction to Information Security (Security+)
Broad introduction to information security concepts and skills. Prepares for CompTIA Security+ certification.
Upcoming Accelerated Sessions:
| Course (CRN) | Class / Certification Prep | Dates | Remote Session Days | Remote Session Times |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27496 | DCOM 258 – Security+ | 1/13/26 – 2/5/26 | Tuesday & Thursday | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| 27497 | DCOM 251 – Network+ | 2/16/26 – 3/11/26 | Monday & Wednesday | 6:00 PM – 8:55 PM |
Eligibility Requirements:
Must live in Baltimore County or work at a Baltimore County office at least 20 hours per week.
Must currently be employed in the IT/Cybersecurity field.
Only one class per participant; student interns are not eligible.
Participants should commit to attending all sessions due to limited grant funding.
Registration:
Coordinate enrollment through Ron Hinkel, EARN Grant Program Manager: [email protected]
