2025-2026 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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College of Computing (COC)

About the College

COC Administration

Dean: Marouane Kessentini
Associate Dean of Graduate Studies: D. Robert Adams
Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies and Outreach: Jared Moore
Associate Dean of Research: Open
Assistant Dean: Rachel Salinas
Assistant Dean of Budget and Operation: Open

Website

gvsu.edu/computing

History

The College of Computing at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) has a strong foundation rooted in innovation, community engagement, and academic excellence. Computing at GVSU traces its origins back to the early 1980s, when the university recognized the growing demand for computer science and information systems professionals. Over the next four decades, GVSU continuously expanded its offerings to meet evolving industry needs, launching degree programs in information technology, cybersecurity, data science and analytics, and health informatics and bioinformatics.

The College of Computing was officially established in 2024 following the Padnos College of Engineering and Computing reorganization. As one of the first standalone colleges of computing in Michigan, it brought together GVSUs comprehensive computing programs under one unified college structure. This milestone marked a commitment to advancing the universitys leadership in computing education, research, and industry collaboration.

In the Winter 2025 semester, the college received approval for three new, future-focused undergraduate and graduate programs in artificial Intelligence, software engineering, and human-centered computing, further strengthening its academic portfolio and responsiveness to industry trends. The same semester, the college launched the Horizon Program, a signature initiative designed to provide every undergraduate student with a pathway to entrepreneurial experience, internships, or faculty-mentored research ensuring that all students graduate with meaningful, career-ready skills.

Since its founding, the college has prioritized hands-on, experiential learning through robust senior Capstone projects, internships, and research opportunities. Its partnerships with local, national, and international industry leaders continue to shape curriculum and workforce pipelines. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and a mission to build a more diverse and inclusive tech community, the College of Computing remains at the forefront of preparing graduates to lead in a rapidly changing digital world.

Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission

The mission of the College of Computing at GVSU is to serve West Michigan and the world by advancing technological innovation. Through experiential learning, industry collaboration, and cutting-edge research, the college empowers students and lifelong learners to become leaders and contributors who will shape the future of technology and enrich their communities.

Vision

To be a transformative force in technology education, research, and innovationand nationally recognized as a tech hub for excellence and impact. Through bold partnerships with industry, community, and global collaborators, the college will drive technological advancements and economic growth while addressing society's most pressing challenges.

Values

• Innovation: We promote creativity and curiosity to tackle challenges and inspire new ideas.
• Integrity: We act with honesty and take responsibility for our actions.
• Respect: We act in a way that acknowledges the humanity and contributions of each individual.
• Inclusion: We create an environment where all can participate, are invited to contribute, and have a sense of belonging.
• Equity: We create conditions that provide everyone an opportunity to thrive.
• Diversity: We welcome, acknowledge, and appreciate our similarities and differences.

Program Information

The College of Computing at GVSU offers a comprehensive suite of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students to thrive in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. Undergraduate programs include artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, information systems, information technology, software engineering, human-centered computing, and data science and analytics. Graduate students can pursue advanced study in applied computer science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, human-centered computing, health informatics and bioinformatics, and data science and analytics.

To further enhance accessibility and student engagement, the college features multidelivery classrooms that allow students to participate in courses either in person or remotely in real time. This flexible approach ensures that learners, regardless of location, can engage meaningfully with faculty, peers, and course content.

At the heart of our academic experience is a strong commitment to experiential learning. All undergraduate students are required to complete either an internship, faculty-mentored research, or an entrepreneurial initiative before graduation, ensuring valuable real-world experience. These applied learning pathways give students the opportunity to solve industry-relevant problems, collaborate with startups and established businesses, and build professional portfolios. Many of these experiences lead directly to full-time employment opportunities, helping students seamlessly transition from college to career.

This emphasis on applied learning, combined with a forward-thinking and industry-informed curriculum, makes the College of Computing at GVSU the choice for students who want to lead, create, and make a difference through technology. Whether you're seeking to launch your career or elevate your expertise, you'll find the tools, support, and opportunities to succeed here.

For detailed program descriptions, curriculum, and graduation requirements, please refer to the individual program sections.

Academic Units

Department of Computer Science

Department of Information Sciences and Technologies

Program Descriptions

• Applied Computer Science
• Computer Science
• Cybersecurity (Graduate)
• Cybersecurity (Undergraduate)
• Data Science and Analytics
• Health Informatics and Bioinformatics
• Information Systems
• Information Technology
• Professional Science Masters

Admissions

Admission to undergraduate programs in the College of Computing follows GVSU's standard undergraduate admissions requirements. Prospective students must meet the university's academic criteria, including high school coursework, GPA, and standardized test scores (if submitted), as outlined by GVSU Admissions and Recruitment Office. For detailed information, visit gvsu.edu/admissions.

Admission to graduate programs in the College of Computing follows GVSU's standard graduate admissions requirements. Prospective students must meet the university's academic criteria, including the holding of a bachelor's degree and proof of English proficiency (if required), as outlined by GVSU Admissions and Recruitment Office. College of Computing graduate programs each have their own criteria for admission in addition to the university requirements.

Graduate Programs

The College of Computing at GVSU offers forward-looking, industry-responsive graduate programs that equip students with advanced skills to lead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Our graduate offerings include master's degrees in applied computer science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and aAnalytics, health informatics and bioinformatics, human-centered computing, and software engineering.

Each program is designed with maximum flexibility to meet the needs of today's diverse learners. Whether students are studying remotely or locally, they benefit from personalized faculty support, peer collaboration, and access to university resources.

Our graduate students also gain a competitive edge through faculty-mentored research, internships, and a wide range of hands-on, project-based learning opportunities. Many courses are designed in partnership with industry, allowing students to engage directly with real-world problems and deliver solutions to actual business challenges. Students regularly interact with industry leaders through coursework, but also via career events, tech talks, networking mixers, and innovation showcases hosted by the college. These interactions not only enrich the learning experience but often lead to internships, collaborative research, and full-time job opportunities after graduation.

Whether you're advancing your current career or pivoting into a new field, the graduate programs at the College of Computing offer the expertise, flexibility, and applied learning experiences to help you thrive in high-demand areas of computing.

For more information, visit gvsu.edu/computing/graduate-studies-75.htm.

Accreditation

The Computer Science (BS) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Computer Science and Similarly Named Computing Programs.

The Information Systems (BS) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Information Systems and Similarly Named Computing Programs.

The Information Technology (BS) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Information Technology and Similarly Named Computing Programs.

Student Services

Scholarships

A wide range of scholarship opportunities are available to incoming and current students in programs within the College of Computing. These scholarships are designed to support academic achievement and assist students with financial need. Awards may be program-specific or open to all students within the college, and many are supported by generous contributions from industry partners and alumni.

Students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities through the College of Computing's program websites and the university-wide resources provided by GVSU's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. For a full listing of scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines, visit gvsu.edu/computing/scholarships-39.htm.

Graduate Assistantships

The College of Computing awards a limited number of graduate assistantships (GAs) each year to outstanding students in support of their academic and professional development. These positions provide students the opportunity to engage with and support faculty in their research and teaching. Most GA appointments are awarded in the winter semester (typically late March to early April) and cover one academic year (fall and winter), with a formal performance review conducted at the end of the fall semester.

To be considered for a graduate assistantship within the College of Computing, students must complete the official GA interest web form on the College of Computing website. Only admitted students are eligible to apply; however, incoming students may apply and accept a GA position prior to enrollment. Students must be enrolled at GVSU at the time their assistantship begins.

All computing GAs are required to attend two mandatory orientations: one provided by The Graduate School and another specific to the College of Computing. Orientation materials, including slides from previous sessions, are available for students who wish to learn more about the expectations and responsibilities associated with the role.

For more information or to apply, please visit the gvsu.edu/computing/graduate-teaching-assistantships-214.htm.

Advising

Academic advising in the College of Computing is provided by dedicated professional staff located on the Allendale Campus. Advisors primarily support undergraduate students with course planning, academic progress, and connecting to university resources. Students can choose to meet with advisors either in person or remotely, offering flexibility to fit their schedules and needs. In addition to professional advising, upper-division students benefit from faculty mentorship to support career exploration, research involvement, and entrepreneurial aspirations. Prospective students are also welcome to reach out with questions about programs or pathways within the college. For more information, visit gvsu.edu/computing/advising.

Graduate advising is coordinated by the graduate program directors and the graduate programs coordinator, who assist students with course selection, degree planning, and academic support throughout their program. For questions related to graduate advising, please email [email protected].

Student Organizations

The College of Computing offers a vibrant community of student organizations that enhance academic, professional, and social experiences outside the classroom. These groups provide opportunities for leadership, networking, skill-building, and community engagement. Whether you're interested in coding, cybersecurity, gaming, or service, there's a place for every student to get involved and grow alongside peers who share a passion for technology.

To explore all student organizations within the College of Computing and find the right fit for you, visit gvsu.edu/computing/student-organizations-31.htm.

Student Academic Supports

The College of Computing is committed to student success and offers a wide range of academic support services to help students thrive. The Student Success Center provides dedicated tutoring and academic resources for core computing courses, as well as access to Python Wave, an early support initiative designed to strengthen students programming foundations.

To help future learners build confidence and readiness for computing programs, the college also offers the Computing Academy. Computing Academy is a flexible set of preparatory courses designed to bridge skill gaps and support students from all backgrounds as they transition into computing fields. Whether you're new to programming or returning to school after time away, the Computing Academy ensures you have the foundational knowledge needed to succeed.

In addition to academic support services, the college offers peer mentoring at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, connecting students with experienced peers for guidance, encouragement, and community. The college also provides specialized support for international students, including engagement opportunities, cultural integration, and tailored advising.

Together, these resources foster a supportive learning environment where all students can grow academically and personally.

To explore all the academic support services, programs, and opportunities available, visit us at gvsu.edu/computing.

Community Resources

Advisory Board

The advisory board for the College of Computing is composed of the dean and many leaders from local, national, and international companies, who serve to create and sustain an active partnership between the college and industry. The board provides advice concerning goals, curriculum, strategic planning, and other matters that strengthen the student experience. The advisory board also works to strengthen the partnerships that benefit industry and the broader community.

Community Outreach

The College of Computing at GVSU is deeply committed to community engagement, with a strong focus on inspiring the next generation of innovators and expanding access to computing education. Our outreach efforts include hands-on K12 programming such as summer camps, classroom visits, interactive workshops, and campus tours that introduce students to the world of computing. We also partner with schools and educators to support both curricular and co-curricular learning opportunities across the region.

In addition to youth-focused programming, the college offers upskilling and reskilling opportunities for adult learners, professionals, and community members through non-credit courses, certificate programs, and specialized training sessions. Whether you're a student exploring technology for the first time or a working professional seeking to enhance your skills, our community-centered approach ensures there's a pathway for everyone. For current offerings and partnership opportunities, visit gvsu.edu/computing.

Research and Industry Partnerships

Applied Computing Institute

The Applied Computing Institute (ACI) connects students and faculty with industry partners to solve real-world problems through innovative computing solutions. ACI provides opportunities for students to engage in hands-on research, industry-sponsored projects, and interdisciplinary collaborations that extend beyond the classroom. By fostering partnerships with businesses and organizations, the institute supports experiential learning, workforce development, and the advancement of applied technologies across sectors.

For more information and to connect with ACI, visit their website at gvsu.edu/aci.

Institute for Cybersecurity Education and Research

The Institute for Cybersecurity Education and Research (ICER) at Grand Valley State University is a hub for advancing cybersecurity knowledge, research, and workforce development. ICER supports interdisciplinary collaboration between students, faculty, and industry partners to address current and emerging cybersecurity challenges. Through initiatives like the GenCyber program, industry-sponsored projects, and outreach to K-12 educators, the institute promotes cybersecurity awareness, hands-on learning, and innovative research that prepares students to protect and secure digital systems in today;s complex technological landscape.

For more information and to connect with ICER, visit their website at gvsu.edu/icer.

Blue Nucleus

Blue Nucleus is GVSU's industry-facing initiative designed to connect talent, research, and innovation with the needs of Michigan's growing tech ecosystem. Focused on workforce development, Blue Nucleus creates pathways for collaboration between employers and the university through internships, co-ops, senior projects, and upskilling opportunities. By bridging academia and industry, it helps prepare students for in-demand careers while supporting the evolving needs of regional businesses.

For more information and to connect with Blue Nucleus, visit their website at gvsu.edu/bluenucleus.