Stevens Institute of Technology will launch a School of Computing in fall 2026, supported by an initial $36 million in philanthropic funding.

The Hoboken-based university said that this new school positions it to lead in artificial intelligence and computing education and research.

The School of Computing is aimed at preparing the next generation of technology leaders through interdisciplinary programs that integrate AI across fields.

Stevens says the initiative responds to growing employer demand for graduates who combine computational expertise with deep domain knowledge, rather than purely coding skills. Programs will blend computing with disciplines such as life sciences, finance, engineering, computational biology, fintech, cyber-physical systems and digital health.

“Artificial intelligence represents a transformation as profound as the widespread adoption of the internet,” said Stevens President Nariman Farvardin. “Institutions of higher education must adapt to AI’s impact on society and the labor market, quickly and strategically. A dedicated School of Computing positions Stevens to lead rather than follow, creating a structure designed for this new landscape where the real competitive advantage lies in integrating AI with disciplinary expertise.”

“Stevens has always been at the intersection of technology and innovation,” said Jianmin Qu, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “Today’s students pursue education that will make them indispensable in the job market, and employers are signaling they need professionals who can integrate and apply AI and computational methods within their own disciplines.

“A dedicated school structure enables us to attract the very best faculty and students in what has become one of the most competitive areas in higher education.”

Now hiring

Next steps include a national search for the founding dean, which Stevens envisions as an entrepreneurial leader capable of building innovative programs rather than retrofitting existing models.

The school will also recruit a cluster of faculty in high-demand computing areas – such as AI, machine, learning and cybersecurity – to strengthen educational offerings and expand research capabilities in areas of national significance.

The new school aligns with Stevens’ strategic plan, “Stevens 2032: Inspired by Humanity, Powered by Technology.” The outline aims to establish the university as a national and global leader in technology-centric education and research, enhance student experiences and empower graduates to participate in the ongoing technological transformation.