About
FAQs
For queries not answered below, please email aicybercomputing@usf.edu.
College and Major Questions
What programs will be offered in the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing?
Starting in the fall 2025 semester, the following programs will transition from the College of Engineering to the Bellini College:
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Undergraduate Majors
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Computer Engineering (CPE)
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Computer Science (BCS)
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Cybersecurity (CYR)
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Information Technology (ITC)
- (Coming fall 2025) Artificial Intelligence (AIE)
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- Graduate Certificates
- Pathway to Computing (XPTC)
- Artificial Intelligence (XAI)
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Graduate Programs
- Big Data Analytics (BDI), PhD
- Computer Engineering (ECP), MS
- Computer Science (ECC), MS
- Computer Science & Engineering (CSE), PhD
- Cybersecurity (CYT), MS
The academics page provides a current list of programs and links to the 91ÊÓƵcatalog.
What can I expect as an admitted student for fall 2025?
- Incoming undergraduate, graduate, and graduate certificate students admitted starting in the Summer and fall 2025 terms with one of the above programs will be automatically moved into the Bellini College starting in fall 2025, unless they are utilizing veterans’ education benefits.
- Currently enrolled undergraduate students will need to speak to the Bellini College advising team to determine if it’s best to switch to the Bellini College starting in fall 2025, unless they are utilizing veterans’ education benefits. Please note that students who choose to move to the Bellini College will be unable to switch back to the College of Engineering later unless they change their major to another offered within the College of Engineering.
- Currently enrolled graduate and graduate certificate students in one of the above programs will not be moved into the Bellini College unless they indicate their desire to move on a survey that will be sent to their 91ÊÓƵemail account. Please note that students who choose to move to the Bellini College will be unable to switch back to the College of Engineering later unless they change their graduate program to another offered within the College of Engineering.
- Military-connected students will not be moved into the Bellini College until all programs are approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Completion of this approval is projected for the spring 2026 semester.
All students in the above programs will receive a formal update to their 91ÊÓƵemail account outlining next steps.
What is happening to my program? Am I moving to the Bellini College?
Incoming undergraduate, graduate, and graduate certificate students admitted starting in the summer and fall 2025 terms will be automatically moved into the Bellini College starting in fall 2025, unless they are utilizing veterans’ education benefits.
Currently enrolled undergraduate students will need to speak to the Bellini College advising team to determine if it’s best to switch to the Bellini College starting in fall 2025, unless they are utilizing veterans’ education benefits. Please note that students who choose to move to the Bellini College will be unable to switch back to the College of Engineering later unless they change their major to another offered within the College of Engineering.
Currently enrolled graduate and graduate certificate students will not be moved into the Bellini College unless they indicate their desire to move on the survey sent to their 91ÊÓƵemail account. Please note that students who choose to move to the Bellini College will be unable to switch back to the College of Engineering later unless they change their graduate program to another offered within the College of Engineering.
Military-connected students will not be moved into the Bellini College until all programs are approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Completion of this approval is projected for the spring 2026 semester.
Why can't I stay in the College of Engineering?
All affected program faculty, staff, programs and courses will transition to the Bellini College starting in the fall 2025 semester.
Students who are beginning at 91ÊÓƵstarting in summer and fall 2025 will be automatically moved to the Bellini College starting in the fall 2025 semester and will not have the option to stay in the College of Engineering.
Students currently enrolled in programs moving to the Bellini College prior to summer 2025 will remain in the College of Engineering for degree completion. If currently enrolled students are interested in moving to the Bellini College, they will need to indicate the interest to their undergraduate advisor or graduate program director. Please note that students who opt to change their college from the College of Engineering to the Bellini College will NOT be able to move back to the College of Engineering.
Will this impact my ability to graduate on time?
Student success is USF’s top priority. Once in the Bellini College, the advising team will work directly with students to ensure degree progression and on-time completion.
What will be listed on my diploma and transcript?
All students admitted for summer and fall 2025 will have the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing listed on their diploma and transcript upon graduation.
All current students will have the College of Engineering listed on their transcript and diploma or certificate unless they move into the Bellini College after meeting with their advising team (undergraduate) or graduate program director.
What if I want to return to the College of Engineering from the Bellini College?
The ability to transition back to the College of Engineering is based on your student type and enrollment status:
Incoming undergraduate, graduate and graduate certificate students admitted starting in the summer 2025 semester will be automatically moved into the Bellini College starting in fall 2025, unless they are utilizing veterans’ education benefits. Students will not be able to return to the College of Engineering unless they change their major to a program offered by the College of Engineering effective fall 2025 or later. Students should reach out to the Bellini College undergraduate advising team or the graduate advising team to explore their program options.
Currently enrolled undergraduate students will need to speak to the Bellini College advising team to determine if it’s best to switch to the Bellini College starting in fall 2025, unless they are utilizing veterans’ education benefits. Once switched to Bellini College, current students will not be able to return to the College of Engineering unless they change their major to a program offered by the College of Engineering effective fall 2025 or later.
Currently enrolled graduate and graduate certificate students will not be moved into the Bellini College unless they indicate their desire to move on the survey sent to their 91ÊÓƵemail account. Once switched to Bellini College, current students will not be able to return to the College of Engineering unless they change their program to a program offered by the College of Engineering effective fall 2025 or later.
Military-connected students will not be moved into the Bellini College until all programs are approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Completion of this approval is projected for the spring 2026 semester. For more information, please reach out to the Bellini College advising team (undergraduates), your graduate program coordinator (graduate and graduate certificate students) or the 91ÊÓƵOffice of Veteran Success.
I am an international student, how will the change impact me?
The transition to the new Bellini College will not affect the validity of your I-20, as the names of your programs and majors are not changing. 91ÊÓƵWorld Office of International Services will update its records to reflect the new college name starting in fall 2025.
Visa status, I-20 documentation, and academic progress will remain unaffected by this change. Should you have any questions or concerns, 91ÊÓƵWorld Office of International Services advisors are available to assist.
CouRses, CLasses and Advising Questions
How do I search for courses?
There will be no change to the process of searching or registering for courses. Course permits have been built so students can register for courses they need to complete their degree, regardless of their college designation.
Will I need to retake any courses?
No, if students have successfully completed their courses, they will not need to retake them. Students who have questions on their degree progression should reach out to their respective advising team (undergraduate, graduate) for more information.
How can I get in touch with an advisor?
Undergraduate students should reach out to their advisor within the Bellini College with specific questions.
Graduate certificate and graduate students should continue to meet with their to ensure degree progression.
Military-connected students can reach out to an undergraduate program advisor, graduate program coordinator or the 91ÊÓƵOffice of Veteran Success.
Are there enough advisors to assist students moving to these programs?
Student success is USF’s top priority. The teams that oversee these programs are moving from the College of Engineering to the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing. Additional resources and staff have already joined the Bellini College to help support our students. The Bellini College advising team will assist students in these programs regardless of degree completion in the College of Engineering or the Bellini College.
Tuition & VA Benefit Questions
How will this impact my tuition and fees?
Current tuition and fees will not be impacted by the opening of the Bellini College.
How will this affect my VA education benefits?
91ÊÓƵis working with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on reviewing these new programs for approval next term. While the review is taking place, new undergraduate students using VA benefits will have their program displayed as Bachelor of General Studies within Undergraduate Studies.
Continuing students will be required to remain in the College of Engineering until the review is complete This will not affect students’ ability to register for the correct courses. This will not affect students’ ability to register for the correct courses.
Individual plans will be created to ensure that students are able to maximize their VA education benefits while ensuring on-time degree completion. If you have any questions about your VA benefits, please reach out to the 91ÊÓƵOffice of Veteran Success.
Facilities and Resources
What new resources or facilities, such as research labs or maker spaces, will be available to students?
As the Bellini College grows, we have plans to create additional labs focused on AI, cybersecurity and computing innovation.
In the meantime, students can continue using the Mini-Circuits Design for X (DFX) lab in the College of Engineering and other assets across the university.
Where is the college located? Is there a new building?
The College's main office with advisors, staff, and TAs will move to the sixth floor of the library.
There are no immediate plans for a new building. You will continue to take courses in existing facilities as Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing expands to other parts of the campus.
Research and Industry Partnerships
How will the transition affect internship or research opportunities in AI and cybersecurity?
Students will continue to have access to research and internships similar to how they did in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Over time, students can expect more internship openings, research positions, and hands-on project opportunities in rapidly growing fields such as AI and cybersecurity.
How will the college support hands-on industry experience?
The Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing is in the process of establishing a council to facilitate collaborations with industry and government partners to provide real-world learning experiences for our students. These relationships may support internships, co-developed courses, and research projects, giving students direct insight into industry practices.
What plans are there to support student research funding, scholarships, and internships?
We will work with the 91ÊÓƵCorporate & Foundation Engagement Office to expand our Computing Partners Program to create additional resources, including dedicated advising for internships and scholarships. Partnerships with companies and agencies also mean more industry-funded internship and project opportunities for students.
Career and Job Placement
What career services or job placement support will the college offer?
The college and the 91ÊÓƵCenter for Career & Professional Development will work closely to support student career development opportunities, including industry-specific job fairs, career counseling, and resume workshops. Expanding industry partnerships and alumni networks will provide greater access to job placements and mentorship.
Will the college organize events like job fairs or symposiums for students to network with industry professionals?
Yes, working with the 91ÊÓƵCenter for Career & Professional Development, the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing plans to host an annual industry-academia symposium, job fairs, and networking events to connect students with potential employers and industry leaders. These events will provide valuable networking and career growth opportunities.
How does this impact my ability to get a job in engineering or other industries?
Changing your college affiliation is not expected to impact your ability to get a job in engineering or other industries. Tampa is positioned at the intersection of technology, military defense, and global commerce, making it uniquely poised to become the nation's cybersecurity capital, known as "Cyber Bay."
Some of the highlights for the Tampa Bay region include:
- U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) at MacDill Air Force Base makes Tampa a critical hub for military cyber operations.
- The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at 91ÊÓƵis already a leader in state and federal cyber initiatives.
- More than 25% of Florida’s tech jobs are based in Tampa, including the headquarters or major offices of cybersecurity giants like KnowBe4, ReliaQuest, Rapid7, and ConnectSecure.
Involvement and Extracurricular Opportunities
What clubs or organizations are specific to the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing for student involvement?
Bellini College students have the opportunity to participate in a broad range of student organizations for professional networking, learning and practicing new skills, and social activities. A list of college-affiliated student organizations is available for review.
Students with a passion for cybersecurity can also apply to be a part of Cyberherd.
Will the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing host hackathons, coding competitions, or cybersecurity challenges?
Working closely with student organizations under the Computer Partners Program structure, the college is committed to providing these opportunities to enhance learning and foster innovation. Regular events may include hackathons, cybersecurity challenges, and programming competitions, offering students practical and collaborative experiences.
Are there mentorship programs with faculty or industry professionals planned for students?
Yes, the college intends to expand the current mentorship programs, allowing students to connect with faculty and industry professionals who are 91ÊÓƵalumni. These programs may include opportunities for one-on-one mentoring, group sessions, and networking events, helping students build professional relationships.
Future Growth and Program Expansion
How will the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing support the growth of AI, cybersecurity and computing programs?
The college plans to support program growth through targeted recruitment of faculty experts, expanded research funding, and partnerships with industry and government agencies. The college plans to also collaborate with other units at 91ÊÓƵto foster joint interdisciplinary programs and training.
Are there opportunities for interdisciplinary projects involving departments outside the college?
Yes, the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing intends to foster interdisciplinary collaboration across USF. Students can expect joint projects and courses integrating computing with fields like medicine, business, criminology, and more, giving them a well-rounded, versatile skill set.