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Computer Science
The James B. Hunt Jr. Library on Centennial Campus at sunset, with a modern glass and metal building illuminated by the warm light of the setting sun, surrounded by trees and landscaping, and another distinctive building with a dome visible in the distance under a colorful sky.

Our Mission

To advance the citizens of North Carolina and the world through excellence and innovation in computing education and research.

Leading Through Change

Technology is transforming every part of our lives — how we live, work and connect. In this fast-moving, software-driven world, the Department of Computer Science at NC State stands at the forefront.

We push the boundaries of innovation to improve lives and solve real-world problems, including the ones that don’t exist yet. Our researchers and students develop future-focused solutions using technologies beyond today’s imagination. We do all this in an environment grounded in innovation, diversity, collaboration and lifelong learning.

Vision

True to the North Carolina state motto “To Be, Rather Than to Seem,” we are committed to becoming and being recognized as a top-20 public computer science department in the country and a preeminent department worldwide.

We will achieve this through excellence in education, research, collaboration and community.

Approved by the Computer Science Faculty, April 16, 2018

Education

Goal: Provide outstanding computing education that prepares undergraduate and graduate students to become leaders in industry, academia and government.

How We Get There:

  • Offer an innovative, modern curriculum that builds strong technical, ethical, communication and collaboration skills
  • Develop core foundations in computer science and engineering with opportunities to specialize in emerging fields
  • Support learning through cutting-edge, evidence-based teaching methods
Explore Our Three MS Degree Tracks

Impact: Research & Innovation

Goal: Our goal is to shape the future through significant computing advancements that impact and influence the academic, industrial and cultural communities.

Aims: We will be thought leaders in our research fields, for the local community and the world; and we will extend our unique collaborative, collegial, flexible environment.

Collaboration

Goal: Our goal is to build a collaborative and innovative work environment to identify and solve the most challenging and relevant issues of our day. Collaboration in academic research, student learning, engagement with industry and the wider community, leads to an end product that is better and deeper.

Aims: To will build leadership capacity and establish meaningful partnerships within the department, college, university, community, government, industry, and academia.

Our Core Values

We believe a joyful, respectful community is essential to fostering innovation, learning and meaningful collaboration.

  • Excellence and Integrity – We pursue excellence in computing education and research through integrity, innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Joy and Respect – Great ideas thrive when people are passionate, supported and empowered to grow. We value positive relationships and professional development across our community.
  • Inclusion and Social Justice – A diverse, inclusive culture strengthens both individual and collective success. The creators of technology must represent its users and take responsibility for advancing equity and social justice.
  • Outreach – We serve North Carolina and the world through education, multidisciplinary research and engagement with industry, government and education partners.