Computer science is rapidly becoming an essential component of nearly every profession and sector of the economy, and is changing the world at an ever-increasing pace. To meet this challenge, the Illinois Tech computer science department blends deep theoretical acumen with practical skills and entrepreneurial attitude in research, education, and outreach. As one of the oldest computer science departments in the country, we have a long history of providing a rigorous computer science education with strong attention paid to the needs and interests of each individual student. Students at all levels have opportunities to be involved in research with our faculty and through internships in industry and at national laboratories.
Research
The world-class research pursued by our faculty includes state-of-the-art work in artificial intelligence, computer networking, cybersecurity, data science, parallel and distributed systems, software engineering, and theory of computation.
Brief History of the Department
The Department of Computer Science grew out of Illinois Tech’s Information Science Center, which first offered computer science courses in 1959. When the Information Science Center became the Department of Computer Science in 1971, Illinois Tech was already offering undergraduate and graduate courses leading to a Master of Science in Information Science and a Master of Science for Teachers in Information Science; the university was also offering non-credit courses for high school students and teachers. Since being created in 1971, the Department of Computer Science has become the largest on campus and has granted more than 5,000 degrees.
Vision
The Department of Computer Science will be known as an international leader in computing and informatics research, education, and innovation. It will be the partner of choice for the academic, technology, governmental, and nonprofit communities in Chicago and beyond.
Mission
To research, educate, and innovate at the cutting edge of computer science, shaping the field and contributing significantly to the evolving needs of the world we live in. We will collaborate within and beyond our discipline, and engage broadly and deeply with society.