See Why UTSA is Poised to Be Texas’ Next Tech Powerhouse
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By Rebecca Luther, Senior Director of Academic Strategic Communications and Marketing The University of Texas at San Antonio
Texas is on the verge of the next era of innovation, and The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is leading the charge with the creation of its new College of AI, Cyber and Computing, launching in Fall 2025.
In addition to strengthening San Antonio’s status as the nation’s largest information security hub outside of Washington, D.C., the new college reinforces the region as a driving force behind Texas’ digital workforce and economy.
Powering the Digital Future of Texas
As demand for skilled professionals in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and other fields skyrockets, UTSA is taking action on its commitment to strengthen the state’s talent pipeline by investing in this new college to ensure Texas remains at the forefront of technological advancement.
With over 5,000 students anticipated to enroll from day one, the College of AI, Cyber and Computing is poised to address a growing need for highly skilled professionals in the rapidly evolving digital economy. By combining its nationally recognized programs in cybersecurity and computer science with emerging fields like artificial intelligence and data science, UTSA is ensuring its graduates are set to lead and innovate from the start.
Through strong government and industry partnerships, students will gain cutting-edge knowledge and real-world experience, making them immediate assets in the tech workforce. UTSA is unlocking the future by equipping graduates with interdisciplinary expertise, preparing the next generation of innovators to drive advancements in critical fields and solidifying Texas’ position as a leader in the digital era.
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Pioneering Innovative Academic Programs
UTSA isn’t just adapting to industry trends—it’s setting them. The university has designed academic programs that integrate emerging disciplines and respond to industry needs, like the nation’s first known M.D./M.S. in Artificial Intelligence (in collaboration with UT Health San Antonio), equipping medical professionals with AI expertise to transform healthcare.
UTSA is also home to Texas’ first undergraduate degree in Applied Cyber Analytics. This unique program provides students with a powerful combination of analytical tools and business intelligence skills, along with a foundational understanding of cybersecurity concepts and operations.
UTSA senior Katie Thomas knows firsthand the impact of this cutting-edge education as one of the first students in this program, set to graduate in May 2025.
“Being the only university that offers this degree, UTSA has been the perfect place for me,” Thomas said. “UTSA is filling the gap between producing data and using cyber tools to understand and interpret data. I believe the mix of these skills are assets employers look for and will help me and others find unexplored niche opportunities.”
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Fostering Collaboration and Innovation
Headquartered at UTSA’s Downtown Campus, the new college is strategically positioned in the heart of San Antonio’s growing tech corridor. This location enhances UTSA’s ability to connect students and faculty with industry, government, and community partners, creating new opportunities for collaboration and innovation. College faculty from multiple disciplines will work together to address real-world challenges, creating practical solutions with broad implications.
UTSA’s established research centers, including the Open Cloud Institute, the Institute for Cyber Security and the MATRIX AI Consortium for Human Well-Being, will remain at the forefront, driving advancements in their fields. Additionally, these hubs of innovation provide opportunities for students to engage in groundbreaking research, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to Texas’ economic and technological landscape.
A Strategic Partner for Texas’ Future
By aligning education and research with the state’s economic priorities, UTSA is not only empowering students but also fueling innovation that will keep Texas competitive in the global digital economy. Texas is on the front lines of the digital revolution and UTSA is leading the charge.
“With AI, cybersecurity, and data science reshaping every industry, UTSA’s new College of AI, Cyber and Computing will be a catalyst for innovation—tackling critical challenges, strengthening industries, and preparing a highly skilled workforce for Texas’ growing economy,” said Heather Shipley, UTSA provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Through this college, our students will gain the skills and experience needed to become the innovators and problem-solvers driving Texas’ digital future.”
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For More Information
· Explore UTSA's new College of AI, Cyber and Computing