NEWPORT NEWS — To address the technical challenges of tomorrow, Christopher Newport University announced it has launched the School of Engineering and Computing.
The new school, which officially opened Oct 4, builds on the strong foundation of its predecessor, the former Department of Physics, Computer Science and Engineering, the university said.
It integrates physics, engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, and information science to create an inspiring, inclusive, and interdisciplinary environment of teaching and research.
“The School of Engineering and Computing is home to research that creates innovative
solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges and it is home to students who want a
rigorous technical education that prepares them for careers across many fields, including some not yet imagined,” said Head of School Anton Riedl, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering.
Riedl previously served as chair of the Department of Physics, Computer Science and Engineering.
SEC’s formation was approved by the University’s Board of Visitors at its April meeting.
Board members noted the formation of the SEC will facilitate engagement with external industry partners and improve responsiveness to industry educational needs.
“The newly approved School of Engineering and Computing creates new opportunities for
students that leverage the strengths of CNU’s outstanding engineering and science faculty,”
said Robert Hodson, chair of SEC’s Industry Advisory Board. Hodson serves as Technical
Fellow for Avionics at the NASA Engineering and Safety Center.
The SEC is temporarily housed in Luter Hall, but many of the SEC’s faculty, labs and
classrooms will be located in the Science and Engineering Research Center which is now under construction and is slated to open in 2026, the university said.
