The future of technology is brimming with potential. Each year, 356,700 new job openings in the US await those ready to make their mark in the computer and information technology industry.
And where better to develop the skills and network than Charlotte, North Carolina? As a leading banking and fintech centre, the city has cemented its status as a hub for technological innovation in the US. Supported by over USD $12 billion in annual statewide funding from government and private sectors dedicated to science and technology development, young professionals have many opportunities to participate in research, launch startups, and build fulfilling careers as computing professionals in North Carolina’s largest city.
Zoom into the city’s heart to find the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) — a research institution ranked one of the top 30 universities in the US for career outcomes and return on investment for international students (2024 F1 Hire Career Outcome University Ranking), 81st among US public universities and 152nd among 434 public and private national universities (US News & World Report’s 2025 Best Colleges). Learning and collaboration thrive in the university’s state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and research facilities spread across two locations: an uptown site tailored to serve local businesses and a vibrant 1,000-acre campus in University City — where the College of Computing and Informatics (CCI) is based and its graduate classes are held.
CCI is North Carolina’s number one institution for computing degrees. Source: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Future-focused degrees in computer and informatics
Through master’s degrees tailored to high-tech demands, CCI students develop the knowledge and skills to drive innovation in academic and professional settings. In the Master of Science in Computer Science, they gain critical skills in the planning, design, and management of complex systems while deep diving into AI, Robotics and Gaming, Data Science and Networks, as well as Systems and Networks.
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity programme addresses the nation’s urgent need for skilled professionals capable of defending vital information assets. Graduates emerge ready to protect both private and government organisations against cyber threats thanks to hands-on training in real-world cybersecurity applications — a master’s research thesis project, an IT internship or a project report.
The Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) is a perfect fit for those interested in developing and managing information systems across various sectors. Concentrations include Advanced Data and Knowledge Discovery, Emerging Technologies, Human-Centered Design, Information Security and Privacy, Information Technology Management, Software Systems Design and Engineering, and Web Development.
Meanwhile, the Master of Science in Bioinformatics bridges biology, chemistry, and computing, preparing students for the quantitative and computational demands of the biotechnology sector. The Master of Science in Health Informatics and Analytics (MHIA) is designed in conjunction with industry leaders to prepare graduates to transform the quality and efficiency of health care through data analysis.
CCI also offers dual master’s degrees in Architecture/Computer Science and Architecture/Information Technology, where participants take courses in both disciplines, fostering collaboration and developing dual competencies in design thinking and technical proficiency.
Within CCI, UNC Charlotte’s School of Data Science offers both graduate certificates and master’s degrees in Health Informatics and Analytics (MHIA), focusing on transforming the quality and efficiency of health care through data analysis; and in Data Science and Business Analytics (DSBA), designed to prepare students for expertise in business, computer and information sciences, and operations research.
In addition, three Ph.D. programs are also available for students who want to grow their expertise in computer science and other IT fields: Ph.D. in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Ph.D. in Computing and Information Systems, Ph.D. in Data Science.
With CCI’s industry partnerships and career resources, graduates can confidently step into high-demand tech roles. Source: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Professional development and mentoring initiatives that guarantee success
At CCI, students are taught to hit the ground running. Its emphasis on hands-on learning ensures they step into the world of work with both technical skills and the entrepreneurial mindset employers seek. However, its commitment to professional development gives students the tools they need to take their career preparedness to another level.
Graduate student, Aditya Gupta. Source: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
“I got a lot of hands-on knowledge at UNC Charlotte. My experience really changed my hiring prospects. Now, I see other UNC Charlotte alumni around all the big tech companies,” says Aditya Gupta, a M.S. in Computer Science graduate who now works as a senior data engineer at a major US retail company.
CCI also offers a variety of professional development activities for students to engage with industry professionals to enhance their non-technical “soft” career skills, build their professional networks, and learn about experiential education opportunities such as internships, co-ops, and projects in addition to full time employment opportunities. Our dedicated Professional Development team is solely focused on supporting CCI students in these endeavours.
Additionally, CCI supports student participation in prominent local and national conferences, such as the Grace Hopper Celebration, Tapia Conference, and Fleurix Conference.
