The field is versatile and innovative as it is up to computer scientists to design, analyze and develop software for the computer systems and networks that power today's world and affect our everyday lives. Because of this, students who graduate from this program are in very high demand and as a bonus, they earn higher starting salaries when compared with other majors in the country. Since technology is constantly developing, the field is always growing and changing which makes exciting and challenging careers for graduates and gives them opportunities to change the world through technology.

The department was originally founded in 1966 and since then, it has grown exponentially with four bachelor’s degrees — Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Bachelor of Science in Computer Information systems and Cybersecurity — and two graduate programs — Applied Computer Science and Cybersecurity. Each field of study in the department offers a wide range of courses with a highly qualified staff that challenges their students.

Our department of computer science has been recognized with accreditations and designations from the Accreditation Board for Engineering, the Technology-Computing Accreditation Commission (ABET-CAC), the National Security Agency (NSA), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). One of the reasons these are such high achievements is because the computer science and cybersecurity majors at Southeast are one of only four universities in the nation to be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology-Computing Accreditation Commission. Another reason is because a designation from the National Security Agency means our program is not only prestigious but also nationally recognized as being one of only three four-year universities with the ability to meet increasing computer science workforce demands. Finally, the designation from the Department of Homeland Security as being a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education means students can expect to enter an elite program and be in line for top-tier positions among industry leaders after graduation.

The department also has several clubs and teams for students to join, such as, the Artificial Intelligence Club, Artificial Intelligence eXtension (AIX) Club, Association for Computing Machinery SEMO, Association for Computing Machinery Women, Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition Team, Collegiate Penetration Testing Competition Team, Computer Science Club, Cyber Defense Club, The Hacking Guild and the International Collegiate Programming Contest Team. Our Cyber Defense team won the state championships eight times and were undefeated. All these organizations give the students chances for fun and competitive real-world experience in the field before they graduate.

The department is dedicated to teaching their students communication, teamwork, and leadership skills to prepare them to work in the field. There are many opportunities such as courses, internships, and student organizations that allow students to have professional experience in the field before they graduate. Due to its growing field, opportunities, and achievements, we here at Southeast are very proud of our computer science department.