Tennessee Tech is the top producer of computer scientists in the state
Tennessee Technological University graduated 129 computer science students during the latest academic school year.
Among all public universities in the state, Tennessee Technological University (TTU) just secured the top spot in producing the most computer science graduates. Data shows that TTU graduated 129 computer science students, ahead of its closest competitor at 113.
However, the university’s impact does not stop there. TTU officials shared that they have even higher program enrollment in computer science for the upcoming year, which would break even more records.
These graduates are vital to the evolving ecosystem in Tennessee, especially as industry leaders continue to push technological advancements across businesses. In East Tennessee, we are primarily seeing that through the integration of machine language models, artificial intelligence, cyber security, and web development.
“We’ve been on this path of growth now for several years,” said Gerald C. Gannod, the Professor and Chair of the Computer Science Department at Tennessee Tech. “In some respects, it’s an industry-wide trend. The growth of computer science programs across the country has been rising due to market demand, but we also work hard to recruit and retain students. They see that Tech is centered on student success and that employers are coming to us to hire our graduates.”
In the press release from the university. Gannod continued by saying the college’s community atmosphere also helps students feel supported in their academic and career choices. One way in which faculty cultivate that community is by sorting students into groups.
Once admitted into the department, students are sorted into six “houses” named after famous computer scientists. The groups, each comprising a mix of freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, graduate students, and faculty, function as learning communities where students can find academic advising, peer mentoring, social activities, and connections.
Soon, TTU is set to further enhance its computer science offerings through the launch of its supercomputer facility in nearby Crossville.
“Each of these centers grew out of the department and grew from the vision of computer science faculty,” explained Gannod. “We leverage all of these assets to give students the best possible experience here on campus.”
For Gannod, the strength of Tennessee Tech’s computer science program is of both professional and personal importance. He has three sons who are students in the program. The oldest is set to graduate from the university with his master’s degree in 2024.
“I believe in this program so much that I encouraged them, ‘If you’re going to study computer science, come to Tech,’” he concluded.
Computer science was Tech’s top undergraduate degree program by enrollment in the 2023-2024 academic year with 722 undergraduate students.
The information was compiled by TTU’s Office of Institutional Assessment, Research, and Effectiveness.
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