Kennesaw State establishes doctoral degree program in computer science

A new doctoral degree in Kennesaw State’s College of Computing and Software Engineering has been given the green light to move forward. The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia approved the new program. The Ph.D. in Computer Science is an innovative program that blends the highest level of theoretical foundations with the practice of computer science. 

KSU’s newest program will focus on computer theory, computing problems and solutions, and the design of computer systems and user interfaces. The program will build on established practices that enable students to work on real-world research problems and gain valuable work experience.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow 13% from 2020 to 2030. The Georgia Department of Labor lists computer occupations on its “Hot Careers” list as computer-related jobs offer wages above the state average, have faster than state average job growth and have at least 400 annual openings.

Said Interim President Kathy Schwaig, “This program further builds on the roadmap Kennesaw State has developed to help us become one of the top R2 research universities in the country. By increasing the number of programs we offer to students interested in pursuing advanced degrees, and generating more faculty and student research opportunities, KSU will continue our commitment to the development of a highly educated workforce for Georgia.”

KSU was again designated as a doctoral university with high research activity, or an R2 university, by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education report. This placed the institution among the largest suburban research universities in the U.S.

Dean Sumanth Yenduri said, “This program supports the College of Computing and Software Engineering’s desire to produce cutting-edge researchers and well-prepared educators in high-demand computing areas. The program design builds on established practices by enabling students to work on real-world research problems and gain valuable experiences.”

In addition to coursework, KSU’s program requires six credit hours of internship, which will allow students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world applications. Students can enroll in the program for the fall 2022 semester.