The University of Texas at San Antonio Unveils New College Focused on AI, Cybersecurity, and Computing

Exciting New Opportunities on the Horizon

The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is set to launch a pioneering new college, the College of AI, Cyber and Computing, in the fall of 2025. This initiative comes as part of a broader strategy to prepare students for careers in high-demand fields while solidifying UTSA’s standing as a leader in research and technical innovation.

A Focus on Specialized Departments

This new college is expected to enroll over 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students. It will feature four specialized departments:

• Computer Engineering and Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Science
• Information Systems and Cybersecurity
• Statistics and Data Science

These areas of study reflect the growing need for skilled professionals in technology and data, preparing students to meet the demands of the job market and excel in their chosen fields.

Meeting the Demand for Skilled Workers

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that job growth in data science and cybersecurity fields is projected to exceed 35% by 2031. With millions of positions expected to open up globally in these sectors, the establishment of the College of AI, Cyber and Computing is timely and essential. According to UTSA President Taylor Eighmy, this college positions UTSA at “the epicenter of the digital convergence that will shape the future.”

Driving Economic Development

Eighmy emphasizes the college’s role in driving workforce and economic development not just locally but also at the state and national levels. The focus on innovative education and thought leadership aims to provide students not only with technical skills but also with the ability to think critically and solve real-world problems.

Integrating Research for Enhanced Learning

The College of AI, Cyber and Computing will leverage existing research centers to enhance student education and research opportunities. Notable collaborations include:

• UTSA AI Consortium for Human Well-Being
• Open Cloud Institute

These centers aim to foster interdisciplinary research, helping students tackle societal challenges through collaborative efforts.

A Unified Approach to Research Centers

The plan involves creating a single home for three research centers to streamline efforts in using technology to address various issues in American society. UTSA’s Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Heather Shipley, states, “By integrating and aligning these centers, the new college will amplify UTSA’s ability to secure competitive funding and deliver real-world solutions.” This integrative approach is poised to enhance the educational experience and prepare students for impactful careers.

Steps Forward: Leadership and Development

As the launch date approaches, preparations are underway to establish effective leadership for the new college. UTSA will begin the search for the dean in January 2025, with the goal of having a full leadership team in place by August 2025. This timeline ensures effective planning and implementation of the college’s academic programs and initiatives.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

The establishment of the College of AI, Cyber and Computing is a significant move for UTSA, promising to contribute positively to the San Antonio community and beyond. This college will not only create educational opportunities but also provide a substantial boost to local economic development through the training of a highly skilled workforce.

Key Takeaways

• Launch Date: The College of AI, Cyber and Computing is set to begin classes in fall 2025.
• Enrollment: The college anticipates over 5,000 students across various technology-focused disciplines.
• Job Growth: Fields like data science and cybersecurity are projected to see job growth exceeding 35% by 2031.
• Research Centers: The college will integrate multiple research centers to enhance educational offerings and tackle societal challenges effectively.

As UTSA moves forward with this groundbreaking initiative, the college aims to provide students with the tools and skills required for success in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.