UC positioned for growth in computer science

The new department will consist of existing undergraduate and graduate-level programs including BS in computer science, MS in computer science, and will jointly manage the Ph.D. degree in computer science and engineering. 

Computer science was previously housed in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, which is being renamed the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering as part of the change. The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering will maintain programs in electrical and computer engineering and electrical engineering technology, and the newly launched BS program in cybersecurity engineering.  

Separate departments will provide better visibility for the rapidly expanding field of computer science, more effective allocation of resources and facilitate integration of computing concepts such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and big data across all CEAS majors. Collaboration across campus is a key goal for the department. Like music appreciation, computing classes for non-computer science majors will introduce students to the world of computing in all disciplines. From music and art to business and medicine, the modern professional will have a competitive edge with computer science tools they learn at UC to innovate what’s next in their field.

With support from a generous gift to the University of Cincinnati by alumnus and entrepreneur Jim Goetz and the JobsOhio initiative to develop in-demand talent, the College of Engineering and Applied Science aims to become a leader in computer science. Within the next 10 years, the department plans to double the size of computer science in both faculty and enrollment. Marc Cahay, who is currently the head of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, will also serve as interim head of the Department of Computer Science while a national search for a leader is underway.  

"The demand for computer-science graduates is booming across the country," said John Weidner, dean at the College of Engineering and Applied Science. "To stay competitive, JobsOhio committed in 2020 to invest $100 million in the University of Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Innovation District, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital with the intent to work with industry to get a $2 billion return on investment, including 15,000 STEM graduates.  Computer Science is at the heart of this investment because STEM graduates must be well versed in the computing field."

Undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in any computer science or electrical engineering program are unaffected with their degree progression.

“The key to maximizing the impact of the investment in computer science is to engage industry and other partners that employ our graduates," added Weidner. "CEAS is uniquely positioned to engage employers because of our world-renowned cooperative education (co-op) program. Through co-op, we work closely with industry to ensure our graduates have the skills and training needed to compete globally. This industrial interaction attracts top-tier faculty because they will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge, industrial-relevant research. The Intel announcement is a great example of how top research universities help attract high-tech companies and industries."