The outside of the Soules College of Business building

Department of Computer Science


Message from the chair:

Welcome to the Department of Computer Science at The University of Texas at Tyler!

Our department prepares students for the challenges of the dynamic world of cyberspace. We offer a broad spectrum and growing set of programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level that reflect the current and future environment within information technology and all computing fields. The department currently offers a B.S in Computer Science, a B.S. in Information Technology, and an M.S. in Computer Science. These programs are based in both theory and practice, responsive to the rapid pace of technological development.

First and foremost, the Computer Science faculty members have a tremendous commitment to classroom activities and students. Excellent teaching is the primary focal point of the department. Students will gain valuable technical skills in a variety of areas including software development, algorithms, artificial intelligence, networks, data science, machine learning, cybersecurity, data mining, operating systems, database management, computer architecture, and many other topics.  At the same, students are introduced to the importance of professional ethics and social responsibility.  Each curriculum is designed to provide students with significant individual and team-oriented design experiences as well as opportunities to develop their oral and written communication skills.  Also, students are given the opportunity to interface with the profession through cooperative education, professional society activities, student internships, and professional speakers.

Another aspect of the department is the pursuit of knowledge. Our faculty publish in top scholarly journals, present their research at top international and national conferences, and compete for grants from various federal and state agencies such as NSF and DOD. Advancing the body of knowledge in our field helps faculty stay at the cutting edge of a dynamic environment. Our faculty often involve students in these scholarship activities further enhancing their education.

The Department of Computer Science values diversity and welcomes students of various experiences and origins, whether regional, national, or international.  This assists students both within and outside the classroom, preparing them for a competitive global environment.  Graduates of our programs have enjoyed careers with various national and international companies including Google, Amazon, and IBM.

I hope that you enjoy exploring our web site and get to know our people and programs.  Please do not hesitate to contact me with questions about joining our UT-Tyler family.  I look forward to communicating with you regarding your interest in our programs.

Leonard L. Brown, III, Ph.D.
Department Chair and Associate Professor of Computer Science

Our Mission

The Department of Computer Science provides students with a strong foundation in the theory, practice, development, and application of computing technologies. Our undergraduate and graduate programs provide the knowledge and skills for students to become successful professionals, leaders and innovators. The department’s core values include a balance between teaching and research, a commitment to the extension of knowledge, and outreach to our stakeholders in East Texas and beyond.

Our Vision

The Department aspires to:

  • Be a recognized leader in computer science and computer information systems education at the local, state, and national level
  • Assume a leading role in terms of student quality, performance, retention, and enrollment
  • Provide exemplary leadership in recruiting and educating a diverse student body
  • Be recognized for our scholarly activity and creative work

What is Computer Science?

Computer Science is the study of computation, information processing, software development, and algorithmic problem solving.  The field covers a wide variety of applications including artificial intelligence, data science, networks, machine learning, cybersecurity, operating systems, and many others.  Because computer science is such a vast field with numerous applications, careers can take many directions – from building games to protecting networks from intruders.

What are the main courses in the Computer Science program?

The main courses include: Algorithm Design and Analysis, Software Development, Operating Systems, Networks, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Architecture, and Database Systems.  These upper-level courses build on the foundational lower-level courses including Programming Fundamentals, Object-Oriented Programming, Data Structures, and Computer Organization.

What can I do with a Computer Science degree?

Computer science graduates work in various industries, including technology, business, manufacturing and more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for computer and information technology occupations is expected to grow 15% through 2031 — much faster than the average for all occupations.

Our graduates hold positions with leading regional and national employers, including:

  • Bell Helicopter
  • Brookshire Grocery Co.
  • Carrier Corp.
  • CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System
  • City of Tyler
  • Genesis World
  • Microsoft
  • NASA
  • Oracle
  • Trane Inc.
  • UT Health East Texas

Graduates who choose to continue their studies can grow their skills and prepare for leadership roles with a master’s in computer science from UT Tyler.