A&M–San Antonio has reached a major milestone in its academic growth: the University’s Computer Science Program has earned accreditation from ABET, the global accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural sciences, computing, engineering and engineering technology.
The recognition places A&M–San Antonio among an elite group of institutions whose graduates are assured a high-quality, industry-aligned education. For students, this means stronger career opportunities, global recognition of their degrees, and eligibility for professional licensure and certifications that often require graduation from an accredited program.
“This is really the gold star for computer science,” said Dr. Debra Feakes, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Not all computer science programs pursue ABET accreditation because it’s such an intense and rigorous process. But having it gives our graduates a competitive edge and raises the profile of the University.”
The road to accreditation is a multi-year process. Programs must have graduates before they can apply, meaning A&M–San Antonio had to wait several years after launching its computer science degree before becoming eligible. From there, faculty spent more than a year compiling a detailed self-study that examined every aspect of the program, from faculty credentials and course design to student learning outcomes and post-graduation success.
The process also required extensive assessments of student performance and data collection across multiple years of coursework, as well as documentation of how the program prepares students for the workforce. ABET evaluators then conducted a site visit last fall to meet with students, faculty and administrators, assessing the program’s quality and its commitment to continuous improvement.
“It’s a lot of work,” Feakes said. “The faculty had to collect a tremendous amount of data and demonstrate not only that we meet ABET’s standards, but that we are constantly assessing and improving. From the self-study to the campus visit to the board review, it’s an intense process. But if you’re doing the work right, the outcome is accreditation.”
Associate Professor Dr. Jeong Yang, director of the Center for Information Technology and Cybersecurity, helped lead the effort, guiding and collecting assessment reports, organizing data collection, preparing self-study reports and coordinating the site visit. She noted that this is the University’s first ABET accreditation—and the only Computer Science program in San Antonio to hold the distinction.
“This is a significant achievement for both the Computer Science program and the University,” Yang said. “It reflects years of hard work and dedication by the faculty, staff and students. Accreditation means the program has met rigorous standards, equipping graduates with a solid educational foundation and preparing them to lead in emerging technologies.”
This recognition comes at a pivotal moment, as San Antonio continues to grow as a hub for technology and cybersecurity. By aligning its curriculum with ABET standards, A&M–San Antonio is ensuring that its graduates are ready to contribute to the region’s expanding tech workforce.
For students, ABET accreditation carries immediate and long-term benefits. Multinational corporations often require applicants to hold degrees from accredited programs, and accreditation is a common prerequisite for professional certifications and licensure exams. The recognition also facilitates global mobility, as ABET is internationally recognized through multiple accords.
“The ABET accreditation really sets us apart,” said President Salvador Hector Ochoa. “It’s a shared accomplishment that elevates the entire University. And for students weighing their options, the accreditation indicates they’re joining a program that meets the highest international standards and prepares them to be leaders in a rapidly evolving field.”
The impact extends to employers as well. Hiring graduates from accredited programs reduces risk, as companies can trust that new hires possess not only technical skills but also the professional and ethical training to contribute effectively in complex environments.
“Employers know that graduates from ABET-accredited programs are prepared to innovate, work with emerging technologies and address the needs of society,” Feakes said. “If two candidates are equal in every other way, but one has an ABET-accredited degree, that can tip the scales.”
As A&M–San Antonio continues to grow its campus and expand academic offerings, ABET accreditation strengthens its position as a university of choice for students in South Texas and beyond. The recognition validates the University’s commitment to excellence in teaching and provides a strong foundation for future program development.
“Accreditation is about more than a stamp of approval,” Feakes said. “It’s about holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards, ensuring our students are well-prepared and showing that A&M–San Antonio is a serious player in computer science education.”