Computer Science

Advance the Frontiers of Computing and Data Science.

Computer science applies everything computers have to offer: Systems, software, theory and applications. Whether you’re a whiz at algorithms, fascinated by the potential of artificial intelligence, interested in protecting companies from cyberattacks, or want to develop smarter products, as a computer scientist you will apply technology to advance hundreds of fields across the globe.

Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Computer Science offers two undergraduate degrees: A Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a core undergraduate program offering students the option of two different concentrations. Students learn computer architecture, programming languages and operating systems, general approaches to problem solving and programming, theoretical concepts dealing with models of computation, the design and analysis of algorithms, and artificial intelligence development. You will be prepared for a career in software development for scientific/engineering applications, management decision support applications, AI design or graduate work in computer science. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science:

• » High Performance Computing Concentration

  The HPC concentration teaches you the techniques for programming high-performance, parallel and distributed systems—including multicore machines, Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), and cloud environments—to build exciting applications that can monitor air traffic flow, visualize molecules in molecular dynamics apps and identify hidden plaque in arteries, among other uses.

• » Information Assurance and Cybersecurity Concentration

  This cybersecurity-focused concentration teaches you the knowledge and techniques necessary for the protection of information stored on computing devices, like computers or forms of mobile technology, as well as information transmitted through both public and private networks. Tech is one of three National Security Administration/Department of Homeland Security-designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.

Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence:

Enrolling students beginning in August 2026, the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence is the first baccalaureate degree in the state to focus on the theories, systems and development behind AI. In addition to AI development, students will understand the inner workings of computer systems that can learn, reason and make decisions. The curriculum spans machine learning, neural networks, data science, natural language processing and ethical considerations of intelligent technologies. Through a blend of strong theoretical foundations and hands-on projects, students graduate ready to create advanced AI systems that drive innovation, from self-driving cars and smart assistants to data-driven solutions across industries. 

Graduate Programs

Master of Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science is designed to meet the growing needs of technology companies, research labs, and civil service by preparing graduates for advanced studies, industry careers, and doctoral programs. Students gain a strong foundation in computer science, develop in-demand technical skills, and benefit from close faculty mentorship and cross-disciplinary research collaborations.

Doctoral Degree

Tennessee Tech’s Ph.D. in Computer Science prepares students for advanced research and leadership in academia, industry, and government. Students work alongside expert faculty on cutting-edge projects funded by agencies such as NSF, DOE, NIH, DHS, and DOD, gaining opportunities to make original contributions to the field.

Careers That Pay You Back

Tennessee Tech's degree programs in computer science and artificial intelligence, combined with additional concentrations, offer students the ability to specialize to meet the ever-evolving demand for computer science professionals across the globe.

In cybersecurity alone, there are more than 500,000 jobs available in the U.S.  Jobs in software engineering, systems analysis software development, machine learning, and more continue to have among the highest salaries for graduates with bachelor’s degrees, according to Payscale.com. Tennessee Tech grads are 6th in average starting salary of all 39 institutions in Tennessee.

While some of our graduates do go on to work in traditional mainstream computing companies such as SAIC, google, Microsoft, and IBM, many go on to work in the financial or health care sectors, as well as research and development at organizations such as Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Computing Connections

The Department of Computer Science prioritizes diversity and creating connection for its students. Incoming students are assigned a peer group to serve as a resource for acclimating to college. Outside of the classroom, students have opportunities to work with faculty on a variety of research projects, as well as participate in computer science organizations, including the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and ACM-W (subcommittee for women), Cyber-Eagles, Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS), Data Science League, Game Development Club, and Graduate Student Club (for grad students). Participating in these groups is a great way to get connected to peers, mentors, and faculty and network with potential employers.