School of Computing &
Information Science

Design, Develop, Code, Create, Implement, Manage, Innovate, Thrive

Educating for The Future

The future business and societal climates in Maine and the rest of the nation will be characterized by rapid technological change, intense global competition, faster product life cycles, more complex, networked, distributed and specialized markets, and both physical and societal disruption. In such environments the computing and information needs of organizations and individuals will be increasingly complex and rapidly changing. Individuals with computing and information systems expertise who can design, code, develop, and/or implement information systems, manage sophisticated information resources, work on interdisciplinary teams, and communicate effectively with product and service designers, business managers, engineers, creative artists, and other end-users will be and are in short supply.

Explore many of the undergraduate and graduate degrees offered in the School of Computing and Information Science.

Undergraduate
Graduate
Research
Faculty

Undergraduate Degree Programs:

Computer Science

Preparing you to excel in the rapidly evolving tech world. Our cutting-edge program blends rigorous academics with hands-on learning, empowering you to design systems, networks, and technologies that shape society. Graduates are highly sought after in Maine and beyond—because a UMaine degree means you’re ready to lead.

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New Media

Preparing students to lead in the fast-evolving digital world, this program blends technology and creativity. Graduates gain skills in design, coding, and innovation while tackling real-world challenges. With a strong foundation in both tech and problem-solving, they are prepared to drive change and shape the future.

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Human Centered Technology Design

Blending creativity, technology, and human insights to design innovative solutions for real-world problems. Students explore emerging technologies such as AI, AR, and VR while gaining hands-on experience in user-centered design, creating tech products that enhance user experiences and address societal needs.

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Computer Science and Business

Computer Science and Business combines tech expertise with strategic thinking. Students develop skills in programming, data analysis, and software while mastering business concepts like marketing, finance, and management. Graduates excel in tech industries, entrepreneurship, and leadership, driving innovation and digital transformation.

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Incoming Student Information

Computer recommendations

Computer Science vs. Computing Fields: What’s the Difference?

Incoming Students
FAQ’s & Support

Computing Community for Good (CCG) Scholars Program & Scholarship

Empowering the Next Generation of Computer Scientists

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Graduate Programs

Computer Science

Our graduate offerings in Computer Science include an MS program, providing advanced knowledge in software development, algorithms, and systems; a PhD program, focused on original research in computing and innovation; and an accelerated MS option, allowing students to complete both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.

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Information Systems

We offer MS degrees in the following areas: Information Systems, which prepares students for careers in IT management, systems analysis, and business intelligence; an accelerated MS option in Information Systems, an accelerated program that allows students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years; and Data Science and Engineering, which provides advanced training in analytics, computing, and engineering for data-driven decision making.

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Spatial Computing

Our graduate program includes MS degrees in Spatial Informatics, which focuses on the design and use of spatial technologies and information systems, and Spatial Information Science and Engineering, offering advanced study in spatial data, GIS, and computational modeling.

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Cooperating MSIS and MBA Programs

We offer cooperating graduate programs combining Information Systems and Business, including an MS in Information Systems (MSIS) with a Graduate Certificate in Business, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Graduate Certificate in Information Systems, and dual MBA and MSIS degrees for integrated advanced study in both fields.

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Graduate Certificate Programs

We offer graduate certificate programs in Computing for Educators, Digital Curation, Geographic Information Systems, Information Systems, and Data Science and Engineering to provide focused expertise and skills in these specialized areas.

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School of Computing & Information Science Research


The School of Computing & Information Science conducts research at the intersection of technology, data, and human experience. Our work in human-centered computing explores human-computer interaction, immersive technologies, user experience, accessibility, and wearable computing. In data and intelligence, we focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, computer vision, and information systems. Our research in privacy, security, and systems addresses ethical computing, privacy, security, and the responsible development of technology. Additionally, we leverage AI and digital tools to enhance creativity, innovation, and community-driven solutions.

Human-Centered Computing

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality
• User Experience and Interaction Design
• Ubiquitous and Wearable Computing
• Accessibility

Data & Intelligence

• AI-based Spatial Knowledge Representation and Information Integration
• Geo-sensor Networks
• Autonomous and Semi-structured Databases
• Explainable Machine Learning
• Data Visualization
• Computer Vision

Privacy, Security, & Systems

• Privacy Engineering
• Computing Ethics

Design & Creativity

• Generative AI to Support Creativity
• Digital Tools to Support Regenerative Communities

Student Resources

The Boardman Learning Lab and Lounge is a supportive, flexible workspace for SCIS students. It’s staffed by senior undergraduates, graduate teaching assistants (TAs), and faculty, and equipped with desktop computers, articulating monitors, printers, and a poster plotter. Whether you’re working independently or collaborating with others, the space accommodates a range of needs—from introductory to advanced courses.

Location: Boardman Hall, Room 138
Managed by: Chris Dufour, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science
Contact: Christopher.Dufour@maine.edu 207.581.2951

Large Workspaces & Monitors
Each station includes articulating monitors for easy connection. Great for multitasking or detailed work.

Poster Printing
Computer Science majors can request poster printing for research and class presentations. Contact Chris Dufour for approval and details.

Connect with Classmates
Meet students in your courses, form study groups, and build your academic support network right in the lab or nearby study lounge.

In-Person Support
Get help from lab monitors and TAs—many of whom have taken the same courses and understand the material firsthand.
If a scheduled helper is not present, email Christopher.Dufour@maine.edu.

Office Hours
TAs and Maine Learning Assistants (MLAs) from SCIS courses regularly hold office hours here—perfect for asking questions, getting unstuck, and debugging.

Our Faculty & Staff

At MCEC, our faculty is the heartbeat of our academic community. Dedicated, inspiring, and deeply knowledgeable, our professors go beyond the traditional classroom experience to foster real-world skills and a passion for learning. Whether mentoring, leading innovative research, or providing personalized support, our faculty members are committed to empowering students to achieve their highest potential

Penny Rheingans

Professor of Computer Science, Director School of Computing and Information Science

Karen Kidder

Administrative Support Supervisor – School of Computing & Information Science

Manuel Wörsdörfer

Associate Professor, School of Computing and Information Science and Maine Business School

Terry Yoo

Associate Professor of Computer Science

Velma Figgins

Administrative Specialist, New Media – School of Computing & Information Science

SCIS Contact Information

School of Computing & Information Science

Penny Rheingans

penny.rheingans@maine.edu

Director – School of Computing & Information Science

Karen Kidder

kkidder@maine.edu

Administrative Support Supervisor – School of Computing & Information Science

Velma Figgins

vfiggins@maine.edu

Administrative Specialist, New Media – School of Computing & Information Science

5711 Boardman Hall
Room 348
Orono, ME 04469
Tel: 207.581.2188

MCEC NEWS

Stay conNECTED

The Computer Science BS program at the University of Maine has been continuously accredited by ABET since 1995, first as an offering of the Department of Computer Science and now as an offering of the School of Computing and Information Science. The BS in Computer Science is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission(s) of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and the Computer Science Program Criteria. For further information refer to our SCIS ABET Accreditation and Assessment page.