USA School of Computing Offers New Doctorate

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Posted on June 17, 2015

Alice Jackson

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This fall, USA’s School of Computing will offer its first doctoral program in computing, a unique and multidisciplinary program that combines coursework and research in computer science, information systems and information technology.

The program, the only one of its kind in the state of Alabama, will prepare graduates for research positions in academia, industry and government. It will emphasize advanced research and discovery and the development of solutions to research-focused problems in the areas of cyber assurance, risk assessment, forensics and data analytics.

“We are very excited about the new Ph.D. program in computing,” said Dr. David Johnson, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “The faculty in this program are outstanding, and they will provide excellent teaching and mentoring in a number of sub-fields of the discipline. We also expect this program to contribute to the economic development of our region.”

The new doctoral program will be the 13th doctorate offered by the University.

“The Ph.D. is the pinnacle of academic achievement. Very few people in the world undertake, yet alone accomplish the goal of contributing to knowledge and their discipline through exploration, study and the practice,” said Dr. Harold Pardue, director of graduate programs in the School of Computing. “This is the essence of the Ph.D. The recognized expertise attained through the School of Computing Ph.D. opens careers along two broad paths: the professoriate and research scientist.”

Pardue said several local companies have expressed the need for graduates from the new doctoral program.

“Graduates will help grow an already bustling technology industry in the Mobile area by filling both academic and research positions and bringing with them the cybersecurity skills and techniques learned at the School of Computing,” Pardue added.

The USA School of Computing, located in Shelby Hall on the University’s main campus, was the first school devoted solely to computing in Alabama. 

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