Boston College Launches Doctoral Program in Computer Science with Ethics Focus

Strategic Insights -

Boston College will introduce a five-year doctoral program in computer science this fall, focusing on the intersection of technology and ethics. The program aims to equip students with the skills to navigate the societal implications of AI and machine learning while contributing to social good. With a unique emphasis on both technical and social aspects, the program will differentiate itself from other Ph.D. programs. The inaugural cohort of five students will be joined by more in subsequent years, with the goal of reaching 25 students eventually.

Key Takeaways:

  • The doctoral program in computer science at Boston College will emphasize the social and ethical dimensions of computing, in addition to technical aspects.
  • Students in the program will be required to take a course in the social and ethical dimensions of computing and will be expected to address these dimensions in their dissertation.
  • The program aims to equip students with the ability to participate in the broader societal conversation about the benefits and risks of AI and machine learning.
  • The program will enroll an initial cohort of five students and plans to expand to 25 students in the future.
  • The computer science department has spent several years laying the groundwork for the program.
  • The program is expected to boost the quality of research projects and inject energy into faculty and undergraduate student projects.
  • George Mohler, Fitzgerald professor and computer science department chair, believes the launch of the program will expand the scope of research the department can pursue.

Statistics:

  • Boston College's computer science department has 533 students majoring in it, according to the 2024--25 BC Fact Book.
  • The doctoral program in computer science will have an initial cohort of five students next fall.
  • The program aims to expand to 25 students in the future.
  • The program will take five years to complete.
  • The computer science department spent several years preparing for the program.

Sources:

  • Alvarez, Sergio PhD. Director of the computer science doctoral program at Boston College.

Reference: Boston College press release

  • Mohler, George Fitzgerald professor and computer science department chair.