AI and Computing

AI is extending human capabilities and expanding what's possible. Recent breakthroughs demonstrate AI's potential to address humanity's most pressing challenges while transforming how people discover, create, and solve problems.

Our B.S. in Artificial Intelligence Methods and Applications (AIMA) prepares you to lead this revolution, not only by building intelligent systems, but also by applying AI responsibly to some of society's most complex and important challenges.

Penn State Harrisburg offers several study options in Computer Science, including bachelor’s and master’s programs, as well as an accelerated undergraduate/graduate option. Our comp sci programs are strong in mathematical and statistical components; you should expect to develop a solid background in the mathematical sciences, to master skills in computer science, and most importantly to become a good problem solver.

Small class sizes, highly qualified and accessible faculty — with active research agendas involving student assisted projects — and strong employment prospects are just some of our programs' strengths. 

The Cybersecurity program goes beyond the general IT field and instead focuses on the analysis of cybersecurity data, identification of cyber incidents, understanding the actions of malware, and the communication of concerns to business stakeholders and the general public.

Whether it is the hacking of critical datasets by a nation-state, the theft of personal information by cybercriminals, or cyberattacks by terrorist groups or other aggressors, students will analyze security issues from the perspective of human and information systems. You’ll learn to anticipate and identify threats through the mastery of technology, articulate potential impacts to stakeholders, and ensure the safety of online information.

The Human-Centered Design and Development (HCDD) program prepares students to design the next generation of intuitive, inclusive, and impactful technologies. Students learn to identify opportunities to support human activity, create useful and usable digital experiences, and evaluate and iterate their designs in real-world contexts. Graduates are well positioned for careers across industry, government, and education, ensuring that rapidly evolving technologies remain aligned with human needs and aspirations.

Through hands-on coursework, collaborative studios, and industry projects, students gain expertise in user research, interface and experience design, usability evaluation, prototyping, and front-end development. The program equips graduates with a deep understanding of how to build technology that truly works for people.

According to the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) Explorer, Penn State Harrisburg graduates with jobs in Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services have high earnings soon after starting their careers.

2022 dollars; 50th percentile figures; Source

Penn State Harrisburg invites applications for five tenure-track Assistant Professor positions as part of a new cluster hire in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Appointments will be made in the School of Humanities, School of Business Administration, and the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology, supporting the launch of the B.S. in Artificial Intelligence (Fall 2026) and the integration of AI across disciplines.