If pressed to sum up Riverland’s computer technology program in just one word, one could bet on “WOW.”

Though, perhaps that would be cheating — WOW is an acronym in this case, not a word.

Riverland Community College’s Computer Technology program was named a WOW (World Organization of Webmasters) Academy this week.

“It’s a great credential for our program,” explained instructor Richard Andree.

WOW is a a nonprofit professional association which provides community, education and certification for Web professionals worldwide.

Riverland has been working with WOW for about a year to ensure that the college’s curriculum is up to the association’s national standards, Andree said.

“Riverland as a whole is trying to align itself with national standards,” he added.

The computer technology program is already aligned with Microsoft and Cisco Systems.

“Our next goal is to look at aligning with Adobe,” Andree said.

More than 100 students take courses in Riverland’s Web program — as electives or on certificate or degree paths in Web design, Web development, Web game design, Web page design and Web development.

These students will see few changes to their curriculum, but those graduating with certain Web degrees will be prepared and able to take a test to become certificate-holding WOW Web Professionals, said Andree.

The WOW certificate is a neutral industry standard.

WOW members — professional individuals and educational institutions like Riverland — have access to online discussion forums, national and regional conferences, teacher training, insurance and other industry benefits, according to webprofessionals.org.

For more information about WOW, go to webprofessionals.org.