Board approves computing Ph.D. program

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Grand Valley State University will launch a research doctoral program in computing in the fall, marking a milestone as the first Ph.D. program in the university's history.

The program responds to a rapidly growing need for advanced computing talent capable of conducting both foundational and applied research that drives innovation across industry, science and society.

The Ph.D. in Computing program was approved Friday, April 10 by GVSU's Board of Trustees.

Provost Jennifer Drake said the advanced degree program will feature rigorous coursework, a qualifying exam, dissertation proposal and defense, and a required research publication.

"The program's defining feature will be its strong integration with Michigan industry and community partners, which will enable students to work on real-world problems and gain in-depth experience to prepare them for the challenges of the future," Drake said.

The program builds on the College of Computing's expanding research momentum, including growth in faculty scholarship, significant external funding increase, and strategic initiatives in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and human-centered computing. It also reflects Grand Valley's broader commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, where computing serves as a shared infrastructure for innovation across fields including health, life sciences, business and beyond.

The Ph.D. in Computing aligns directly with the College of Computing's strategic priorities and the university's Academic Affairs framework by:

• Advancing research excellence, strengthening faculty scholarship, increasing external funding and expanding GVSU's research footprint.
• Supporting regional impact: Contributing to West Michigan's transformation into a technology and innovation hub through partnerships with industry, health care and public-sector organizations.
• Enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration: Enabling initiatives that connect computing with life sciences, business, health, engineering and other disciplines.
• Strengthening the teacher-scholar model: Integrating doctoral students into research and teaching, enriching undergraduate and master's education.
• Developing workforce and innovation pipelines: Preparing highly skilled graduates to meet regional and national workforce needs in advanced computing fields.

"We really see this program as a natural next step in the evolution of the College of Computing which will help us reinforce its role as a central driver of the regional strategy to nurture a Tech Hub in West Michigan," Dean Marouane Kessentini said. "As the university's first Ph.D. program, it positions us to contribute not only to workforce development, but to the creation of new knowledge and breakthrough innovations in computing. We are building a model where computing serves as a foundation for discovery across disciplines and for impact across society."

Randy Thelen, President and CEO of The Right Place, emphasized the program's importance to the region's innovation ecosystem.

"Doctoral-level talent and sustained research capacity are essential to long-term economic growth," Thelen said. "This program will accelerate innovation, support industry-driven R&D, and strengthen West Michigan's ability to compete for high-impact opportunities and investment."

The first cohort for the new Ph.D. in Computing is expected to enroll this fall. More information about applying for the program will be made available at the College of Computing's website later this spring.