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East Tennessee State University’s College of Business and Technology has achieved a remarkable distinction in computing education, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in the field. With the recent ABET accreditation of its Cybersecurity and Modern Networks Program, ETSU is now the only institution in the country to boast ABET-accredited programs in computer science, information systems, information technology, and cybersecurity. 

This achievement places ETSU among an elite group, with only one other institution in the nation holding four independently accredited Computing Accreditation Commission programs.  

“ABET accreditation is a rigorous and comprehensive process that ensures programs meet the highest standards of quality, preparing students for success in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape,” said Dr. Tony Pittarese, dean of the College of Business and Technology. “This national distinction is a point of immense pride for ETSU and reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in computing education. I am grateful for the outstanding work of Dr. Brian Bennett and the Department of Computing faculty in making this achievement possible.” 

ABET accreditation is a globally recognized mark of excellence, signifying that a program meets the demanding standards necessary to prepare graduates for entry into critical technical fields. ETSU’s computing programs offer students hands-on learning experiences and a curriculum emphasizing real-world skills, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the demands of today’s competitive workforce. 

“The benefit to students comes from the ability to tailor their program to study to best reflect their personal interests or career goals. As an example, an information technology student can take elective courses in cybersecurity or any of the other programs and have this count towards their major. By housing all of the courses in these disciplines in one department, students have maximum flexibility in their program of study,” Pittarese  said. “All four of the programs have a unified core of computing classes. This means that students who aren’t sure which computing career path is right for them can start in any one of the four programs and, after exposure to other topics in their study, can easily transfer to another program without losing credits or progress to their degree.” 

He added: “No other program in the country affords students this degree of flexibility and content choices.” 

Students getting hands-on learning opportunities is at the core of ETSU’s approach to education. Across a range of programs, ETSU aims to help students shift seamlessly from enrollment to employment.