A Special Message from Dean David T. Ma
This semester, our students and faculty continue to demonstrate the talent, dedication, and curiosity that drive the College of Engineering and Computer Science forward. I am pleased to share highlights of their accomplishments, our growing research impact, and our efforts to expand academic opportunities.
Our students continue to excel in IEEE competitions, applying their engineering knowledge, creativity, and teamwork to real-world challenges. Our cybersecurity students also continue to earn high rankings in national competitions, demonstrating their ability to tackle complex challenges in a rapidly evolving field. These achievements reflect not only our students’ hard work but also the dedication of the faculty and staff who support them.
Our faculty are also expanding the college’s contributions to major research initiatives. We are part of a $30 million National Science Foundation–funded research center focused on turbulence, with Dr. Zhaorui Li leading COECS’s involvement. This collaboration connects our faculty with a broader research community and creates opportunities for students to participate in meaningful research.
We have also established a cooperative agreement with PRCI as an academic partner to conduct applied research for the midstream industry. This partnership strengthens our connections with industry and supports research by addressing practical challenges while creating opportunities for faculty and students to collaborate.
A major milestone for our college is the launch of our Ph.D. in Engineering program. This program expands opportunities for advanced study and strengthens our capacity to conduct research, develop engineering leaders, and address complex challenges facing industry and our communities.
We are also developing new programs that respond to student interests and regional workforce needs. In collaboration with Del Mar College, we are pursuing a Bachelor of Architecture program. Meanwhile, our Department of Computer Science is developing a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and a certificate program in artificial intelligence, expanding pathways into fields that are reshaping industry and society.
In civil engineering, our faculty are developing courses focused on water engineering. The first course, which will focus on water desalination, could be offered next year. These efforts will help prepare students to address water challenges that matter to the Coastal Bend and communities beyond our region.
Together, these accomplishments and initiatives reflect our commitment to connecting education, research, and community needs. Thank you to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners for helping move COECS forward. I look forward to sharing more of our progress throughout the semester.
David Ma, PhD
Dean, College of Engineering and Computer Science