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Computer Science is designed for students focused on understanding computational processes from both theoretical and applied perspectives. Key research areas span algorithms, system architecture, AI, computer vision, computational biology, distributed systems, databases, machine learning, natural language processing, networking, numerical analysis, software development, programming languages, robotics, and computational theory. Cornell's Ph.D. program in computer science ranks among the nation's top six, featuring groundbreaking research across all computing disciplines. The program stands out for its distinguished faculty, legacy of innovation, and comprehensive doctoral curriculum. Faculty and doctoral candidates work across both the Ithaca campus and Cornell Tech in New York City. The Computer Science Field incorporates faculty from related departments—including Electrical Engineering, Information Science, Applied Mathematics, Operations Research, Mechanical Engineering, Computational Biology, and Architecture—who may advise Ph.D. thesis projects.
Modern society depends on critical infrastructure for communications, finance, energy, and transportation—all increasingly reliant on interconnected digital systems. Failures in these systems can jeopardize safety, freedom, and economic stability. (National Research Council, Trust in Cyberspace, edited by F.B. Schneider) Cornell hosts one of the world's most prominent cybersecurity research groups, addressing core challenges in digital security and privacy. For decades, Cornell has pioneered computer security advancements—from theoretical breakthroughs to real-world implementations and policy influence.