Illinois Institute of Technology has created a new College of Computing, effective June 1, 2020. No existing department or degree of any existing college is being eliminated by this reorganization. The reorganization also is not intended to affect or impact the tenure or the position of existing faculty members. All current students will be able to graduate following the currently stated degree requirements in their respective programs.
How will a College of Computing make Illinois Tech better?
Our students are getting excellent training in the area of computing and data science thinking. However, this new college will seek to systematically infuse computation into the core of each educational discipline. The new college will spearhead efforts to give every student—including those in engineering, architecture, science, humanities, design, law and business—a firm foundation in computation and data science thinking.
How are the colleges changing?
The College of Computing will consist of the following existing departments and programs: computer science, applied mathematics, industrial technology and management, and information technology and management.
The new Lewis College of Science and Letters will consist of the following existing departments and programs: biology, chemistry, physics, humanities, psychology, social sciences, food science and nutrition, and English Language Services.
The School of Applied Technology shall cease to exist, and, as a result of the merger referenced above, Lewis College of Human Sciences and the College of Science shall also cease to exist.
Do students have to re-apply to programs?
No, students in existing programs will not have their graduation requirements changed as a result of the reorganization.
Will new majors/programs be offered with this change? Will any majors/programs be eliminated?
Not initially. No changes to majors or programs are expected for the 2020–2021 academic year.
What do students need to do before fall 2020?
Nothing, but be aware that some college-related administrative offices may change, so look out for announcements.
How soon would the online bulletin be updated with the new college/degree details?
This is currently undetermined, but we are working diligently on this.
Who will be the new deans?
Lance Fortnow, now dean of the College of Science, will be the new dean of the College of Computing. Christine Himes, the current dean of Lewis College of Human Sciences, will become the interim dean of Lewis College of Science and Letters.
Where will the College of Computing be located?
The dean and administrative office will be on the 14th floor of the IIT Tower. The departments and faculty will initially remain in their current locations.
What will happen to the Office of Professional Development, which currently reports to the School of Applied Technology?
Effective June 1, 2020, a new office will be created, known as the Office of Professional Development and Digital Learning, which will report to the provost. The purpose and function of this office will be to oversee and facilitate the development and delivery of the online education and professional development programs taught by university faculty and offered through existing academic units.