Master the basics of one of the hottest new technologies or take a biology course like none ever created before at Anne Arundel Community College this fall.

New to the fall course lineup is "Introduction to Geographic Information Systems" (GEO 240/SOC 240), a powerful computer mapping and analysis technology employed by business, industry, government agencies, the military and nonprofit organizations. GIS aids data analysis for complex projects and initiatives involving areas such as transportation, development, environmental resources, healthcare, marketing and emergency response.

"There’s a great demand for people with GIS skills," said Tom Karwoski, AACC associate professor of geography and department chair of geography and sociology. "This is a highly employable job skill."

GIS technology is tied to the growing geospatial technology arena. In AACC’s computer-based class, gain hands-on experience with one of the most well known GIS programs, ArcGIS9. The three-credit class is offered 6-8:45 p.m. Thursdays on the Arnold campus from Aug. 29-Dec. 18.

Learn how GIS technology enables you to collect, store, analyze and produce natural and social science data. Also, discover how to view and analyze information from a geographic perspective.

For example, emergency planners can use GIS technology to calculate response times during a natural disaster. Or, they can use GIS to map the quickest route for an ambulance to reach a hospital during rush hour.

GIS technology accurately mapped the Space Shuttle Columbia’s debris locations, enabling emergency teams to reach impacted areas quickly. It also can help locate the top sites for a company’s new office or distribution center based on multiple factors.

For information on the GIS course, call Karwoski at 410-777-2833.

AACC’s entire biology faculty created the second new class, a general education biology course for nonmajors. "Biology for the 21st Century" (BIO 102) is offered online Aug. 29-Dec. 18.

Faculty members developed the course by asking what they believe everyone should know about biology to make good personal decisions and be an informed citizen. The new three-credit course introduces basic biological concepts and explains their impact on society.

For example, learn how genetics and evolution define life, determine gender, govern inheritance, create diversity and foster new species. Understand processes involved for in vitro fertilization, sex selection and cloning.

Study the applications of molecular biology for genome mapping, forensic science, production of new domesticated organisms, genetic screening and development of new gene therapies. And, learn to recognize how scientific knowledge can be misused to support conflicting views and attitude.

Registration is under way. For information call 410-777-2246.

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