; (2) the establishment or expansion (or both) of associate degree programs in computer and information security; and (3) the purchase of equipment to provide training in computer and information security for either professional development programs or degree programs. (b) Goals and criteria The Secretary, acting through the Deputy Assistant Secretary and in consultation with the Working Group established under section 201, shall establish the goals for the program under this section and the criteria for awarding grants. (c) Awards (1) Peer review All awards under this section shall be provided on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis. The peer review process shall be published in the Federal Register. Those serving in a peer review role shall do so for 2 years with an option for 1 additional term. Applicants in the event of a denial of an award shall be provided with a detailed explanation for the denial. (2) Focus In making awards under this section, the Deputy Assistant Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, ensure geographic diversity and the participation of women and under represented minorities. (3) Preference In making awards under this section, the Deputy Assistant Secretary shall— (A) give preference to applications submitted by consortia of institutions, to encourage as many students and professionals as possible to benefit from the program established under this section; (B) give preference to any application submitted by a consortium of institutions that includes at least one institution that is eligible to receive funds under title III or V of the Higher Education Act of 1965