Fitchburg State University’s Bachelor of Science programs in Computer Science and Computer Information Systems (CIS) have earned reaccreditation from the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) through September 30, 2032.
“ABET’s endorsement reinforces Fitchburg State’s commitment to providing a high-caliber education that equips our students with the critical skills and adaptability needed to excel in a rapidly evolving technological landscape,” said Acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Franca Barricelli.
Dean of the School of Business and Technology Dr. Mahmoud Al-Odeh pointed to the milestone as evidence of the department's momentum and forward-looking curriculum.
“ABET reaccreditation is a reflection of the hard work, passion, and dedication of our Computer Science faculty and their commitment to our students,” said Al-Odeh. “It validates the quality of the education we provide today while challenging us to keep looking forward. As AI and other emerging technologies reshape the workforce, we will continue strengthening our curriculum, expanding hands-on learning and internship opportunities, and creating pathways that prepare our graduates for both today’s careers and those that are still emerging.”
ABET is a globally recognized accreditor of college and university programs in computing, engineering, engineering technology, and applied and natural sciences. The reaccreditation reflects the quality of Fitchburg State’s computing programs and the commitment of faculty, students, and the university to academic excellence and continuous improvement.
Earning ABET reaccreditation involves a comprehensive evaluation of a program’s curriculum, faculty, facilities, institutional support, student outcomes, and continuous improvement processes. For Fitchburg State, the achievement provides important value to several communities.
For students and families, ABET accreditation provides assurance that Fitchburg State’s Computer Science and CIS programs meet rigorous, internationally recognized standards for computing education. For employers, it demonstrates that the programs are built around clearly defined student outcomes and professional expectations in the computing field. For the university, the reaccreditation reinforces Fitchburg State’s commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused education that combines strong academic foundations with hands-on, applied learning.
At the heart of this achievement is the dedication of Fitchburg State’s Computer Science faculty. ABET reaccreditation is more than recognition of past accomplishments; it represents an ongoing commitment to assessing student learning and continually strengthening the educational experience.
Through curriculum review, assessment of student outcomes, and engagement with students, alumni, and industry partners, faculty continue to examine how the programs can respond to a rapidly changing technology landscape.
That work is increasingly important as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies reshape both the computing profession and the skills employers seek.
“ABET accreditation confirms that our Computer Science and Computer Information Systems programs meet established profession-wide standards for curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes,” said Dr. Natasha Kourtonina, chair of the Computer Science Department. “We are especially proud of our students. The visiting committee reviewed its work in our classes and praised it highly. ABET accreditation also means that FSU supports our programs and provides the resources needed to sustain them. We expect the accreditation to improve our students' prospects for future employment and graduate studies.”
The reaccreditation through 2032 positions Fitchburg State’s Computer Science and CIS programs on a strong foundation for continued innovation, industry engagement, and student success.