Southeastern announces two new academic concentrations

Southeastern Louisiana University recently added two new academic concentrations in the College of Science and Technology – one in applied artificial intelligence in the computer science bachelor program and the other in cybersecurity in the information technology bachelor program.

For the AI concentration, through coursework in machine learning, computer vision, predictive modeling, generative AI, and data mining, students will develop a deep understanding of how AI systems learn, reason, and solve real-world problems.

“Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the way we live, work, and solve complex problems across nearly every industry,” said Associate Professor Kazim Sekeroglu. “Our new Applied Artificial Intelligence concentration provides students with both the theoretical foundation and practical experience needed to understand how intelligent systems learn, make decisions, and generate solutions. Through hands-on projects, advanced coursework, and exposure to industry-standard tools, students will graduate prepared to contribute to the next generation of AI innovations in fields ranging from healthcare and finance to robotics and national defense.”

With hands-on projects and experiential learning opportunities, graduates will be well prepared for a career in AI engineering, machine learning operations, computer vision, or other AI-driven fields across industries such as healthcare, robotics, finance, defense, and technology.

Program highlights include the following:
• specialized AI curriculum covering machine learning, computer vision, generative AI, predictive modeling, and data mining
• hands-on capstone experience where students design and implement real-world AI solutions
• strong mathematical foundation with calculus, linear algebra, statistics, and discrete mathematics
• exposure to industry-standard tools and frameworks used in modern AI/ML pipelines

Visit southeastern.edu/computer/science or email [email protected] for more information.

For the cybersecurity concentration, students in the program will learn how to protect the digital landscape and secure critical infrastructure.

“Cybersecurity has become one of the most critical needs in today’s digital world,” said Chief Information Security Officer Matthew McNulty. “Our new cybersecurity concentration prepares students to protect information systems and critical infrastructure through a curriculum that integrates foundational computing and software engineering with advanced security practices. Graduates will leave Southeastern with the technical skills, ethical mindset, and practical experience necessary to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals in both the public and private sectors.”

The program is designed to equip students with both foundational computing skills and specialized security expertise. The curriculum blends core technical competencies, such as algorithm design, data structures, and software engineering, with advanced security topics including ethical hacking, security operations, and cybercrime and governance.

By integrating system administration and networking with deep dives into the future of cybersecurity, the program prepares graduates to protect critical digital infrastructure while understanding the legal and ethical frameworks of the modern technology landscape.

Program highlights include the following:
• comprehensive curriculum balancing core computer science concepts with cybersecurity
• accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
• students will receive real-world industry feedback through project-based courses embedded throughout the curriculum
• Honors curriculum available

For more information, email [email protected] or visit https://www.southeastern.edu/majors-and-minors/information-technology-bs-cybersecurity/.