What is the School of Computer and Data Sciences at the University of Oregon?

Updated

The School of Computer and Data Sciences (SCDS) is a school within the University of Oregon that focuses on computing, data, and AI. Its stated framing is "Human Values. Intelligent Systems. Real-World Impact." — the school describes its purpose as teaching students to use data, computing, and AI to solve problems, advance discovery, and improve lives. The site is useful if you are researching degree options in computer science, data science, or cybersecurity at UO, or looking for the school's news and program information.

What SCDS offers

SCDS lists both undergraduate and graduate degree programs:

Undergraduate degrees

  • Computer Science — BS or BA
  • Math and Computer Science — BS or BA
  • Cybersecurity — BS
  • Data Science — BS or BA

Graduate degrees

  • Computer Science — MS
  • Computer Science — PhD
  • Cybersecurity — MS
  • Data Science — MS

The site separates undergraduate and graduate program pages, so prospective students can go directly to the level they are considering.

The stated focus

The school organizes its identity around three phrases:

  • Human Values — technology is described as shaping how people learn, build, and connect.
  • Intelligent Systems — the curriculum centers on data, computing, and AI.
  • Real-World Impact — the school emphasizes applying knowledge to practical problems.

Experience beyond coursework

SCDS states that learning happens outside the classroom as well. It points to internships, student leadership opportunities, capstones, and operations centers as ways students apply their knowledge in real-world settings. If you are evaluating the school, these are the experience-oriented components it highlights alongside the degree listings.

News and current activity

The site publishes news about the school and its people. Examples from the page include:

  • SCDS participation in the Alliance for Data Science and AI, with Executive Director Beth Plale serving a three-year board term representing the University of Oregon alongside eight other academic institutions.
  • A computer science alum who credited leadership experience with landing a job at a dream company.
  • A cybersecurity teacher training workshop ("Training the Trainers") aimed at bringing cybersecurity into Oregon high schools.
  • Fulbright awards to two computer science professors, Brittany Erickson and Reza Rejaie.

These items show the kinds of updates the site carries: faculty recognition, student outcomes, K-12 outreach, and national AI initiatives.

How to use the site

If you are a prospective student, start with the undergraduate or graduate degree listings to see which program matches your level and interests. If you want to understand the school's direction, the news section reflects its current priorities in AI, cybersecurity, and data science. The site also provides Apply and Visit UO entry points for those moving toward admission.