Growth Initiatives

College of Connected Computing

To provide more students with the skills and credentials needed in a society shaped by technology, Vanderbilt is establishing the College of Connected Computing, the university’s first new college in 40 years. The new, interdisciplinary college will advance breakthrough discoveries and strengthen computing education for every one of our students through a “computing for all” approach.

Student works on a computer
Section Contents

Establishing a New College

The College of Connected Computing’s teaching and research in AI, data science and other disciplines will advance those fields and support students and faculty in every one of Vanderbilt’s schools and colleges. Every student and faculty member will have the opportunity to develop fluency in today’s essential technology and to use it to excel in any area they are studying. 

A search for the college’s inaugural dean launched in fall 2024. We plan to enroll our first students in this college by the fall of 2026. 

Connected Computing

FAQs

  • Why is Vanderbilt creating the College of Connected Computing?

    Of all the factors shaping society, few are more influential than the rapid emergence of advanced computing, AI and data science. To continue to carry out the university's mission, prepare all of Vanderbilt's students for their careers and advance research across the university, Vanderbilt must contribute even more to the study, understanding and innovative application of these fast-changing disciplines. The aim is to make Vanderbilt a global leader in these fields, ensuring the university's continued academic excellence and capacity for world-changing innovation.

  • How will the creation of this new college affect current students?

    The creation of the College of Connected Computing will not negatively affect the requirements, time to completion, or quality of any major that is moved to the new college. Students currently enrolled in a major that ultimately becomes housed in the new school will have uninterrupted access to the same level of world-class faculty and opportunities within the major they have now. As we go through this exciting change, every decision is being informed by best practice with the intention of improving the educational experience for students. More specifics will be communicated as plans develop.

  • How will this new college connect to other areas of the university?

    The new, interdisciplinary college will collaborate with all of Vanderbilt’s schools and colleges to advance discoveries and strengthen computing education through a “computing for all” approach.

  • What’s next for the College of Connected Computing?

    A faculty task force, in collaboration with Vice Provost for Special Initiatives Duane Watson, the provost and the chancellor, is working to finalize the mission and core values of the new college. As next steps are solidified, updates will be provided regarding faculty, staff and student recruitment, as well as opportunities for collaboration and partnership with industry leaders. 

  • How can the Vanderbilt community get involved?

    The College of Connected Computing will emphasize collaboration across all schools and colleges at Vanderbilt. Faculty, staff and students interested in contributing to or learning more about this initiative are encouraged to stay engaged as updates are shared through university communications and events. 

  • What programs will be offered in the College of Connected Computing?

    The new dean and provost will decide the specific programs and degrees offered by the College of Connected Computing. The task force is providing suggested programs as part of its work back to Vice Provost for Special Initiatives Duane Watson, the provost and the chancellor. Their goal is to ensure the new college offers innovative and interdisciplinary programs in computer science, artificial intelligence, data science and related fields. The task force is working to identify programs that will meet the growing demand for technology-focused education and align with Vanderbilt’s strengths and commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Further details on the programs will be announced as the task force finalizes its recommendations. 

News