University of Georgia Computer Science

The University of Georgia Computer Science Major is part of the UGA School of Computing, formerly known as the Computer Science Department. It operates under the joint administration of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences and the University of Georgia College of Engineering. This restructuring occurred due to the rapid growth in the computer science major at the University of Georgia. While the original Computer Science department was established in 1984, the School of Computing was established on July 1, 2022.

Growth
The growth of the School of Computing at the University of Georgia has been remarkable since its inception. Established in 1984 by eight faculty members, the UGA computer science department has evolved into the comprehensive School of Computing, serving as a hub for over 4,600 alumni and a destination for aspiring students in the ever-expanding field of computer science.

Jointly administered by the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, where its roots lie, and the College of Engineering, the School of Computing symbolizes UGA's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and educational excellence.

Under the visionary leadership of President Jere Morehead, UGA has embraced the School of Computing as a cornerstone of its STEM initiatives. The growth trajectory is evident: the College of Engineering, where the School resides, has experienced explosive growth, nearly quadrupling its enrollment since 2012. Similarly, computer science enrollment at UGA has surged by 202% over the past eight years, reflecting the increasing demand for expertise in this field.

Student Involvement and Achievement
As one of the most enrolled majors at the University of Georgia, the Computer Science department has numerous student groups and organizations.

Hackathons
UGAHacks is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that hosts an annual 48-hour programming sleepover, held in Athens, Georgia at the University of Georgia.

UGAHacks 9 (2024)
UGAHacks 9, with the theme of superheroes, took place from February 9 to February 11, 2024, at the Zell B. Miller Learning Center on the University of Georgia Campus. It attracted over 700 attendees from UGA and institutions such as Georgia Tech, NYU, Georgia State University, and others.

UGAHacks 8 (2023)
UGAHacks 8 returned to the Zell B. Miller Learning Center for a 48-hour hackathon with the theme of travel. With 8 sponsors and 600+ attendees, hackers traveled from far and wide to participate in the event. The hybrid format welcomed virtual attendees as well.

UGAHacks 7 (2022)
UGAHacks 7 adopted a hybrid event model, with an in-person portion held at Zell Miller Learning Center and virtual participation. Themed around vaporwave, the event attracted 800 attendees and 14 sponsors.

UGAHacks 6 (2021)
UGAHacks 6 was held completely virtually due to Covid-19, with 411 participants, 150 sponsors representatives, and 10 mentors attending. Themed around 'building the future', it showcased over 40 project submissions.

UGAHacks 5 (2020)
UGAHacks 5, hosted at the Zell Miller Learning Center, saw the largest turnout to date with 500 participants, 14 sponsors, and 15 mentors. Themed around bringing 'otherworldly' ideas to life, it set a new standard for future UGAHacks events.

UGAHacks 4 (2019)
UGAHacks 4 returned to its original home at the Lamar Dodd School of Art, attracting 450 participants, 11 sponsors, and 15 mentors. This event saw the greatest diversity of hackers from various schools across the world.

UGAHacks 3 (2018)
UGAHacks 3, hosted at Thinc Studios, saw 150 participants, 10 sponsors/partners, and over 26 submissions for projects. It centered around the possibilities of partnering with a team to bring ideas to life.

UGAHacks 2 (2017)
UGAHacks 2 moved to Thinc Studios, creating a more hacker-friendly environment. It saw the submission of 24 projects and marked significant growth in resources and attendance.

UGAHacks 1 (2016)
The inaugural UGAHacks event took place at the Lamar Dodd School of Art, with less than 100 participants and 36 submissions for projects. It laid the foundation for future events, providing a platform for learning, creation, and collaboration within the hacker community.

Association for Computational Machinery (ACM)
The University of Georgia has a branch of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) as well as ACM-W, which focuses on empowering collegiate women in computer science. ACM focuses on advancing computing as a profession, major, and community through local events and meetings. Sometimes with companies. All students are welcome to attend UGA ACM hosts events and meetings open to all students, irrespective of their area of study or experience level.

UGA Society For Cyber Security (SCS)
The Society for Cyber Security (SCS) is a student-managed organization at the University of Georgia dedicated to providing students with exposure to the cybersecurity industry. Founded to offer a solid foundation of cybersecurity knowledge to its members, SCS facilitates unique opportunities for students to develop technical expertise, engage in industry events, enhance security skills, and network with professionals. Additionally, SCS serves as a valuable resource for recruiters seeking well-prepared students with cybersecurity experience. Visit their website for more information.

Small Satellite Research Laboratory
The Small Satellite Research Laboratory (SSRL) at the University of Georgia (UGA) was established in 2016 by undergraduate Caleb Adams, initially serving as an avenue for undergraduates to design, build, and test space-ready components. The lab has since grown significantly, with over 50 undergraduate students, 5 graduate students, and 12 faculty members actively involved in its projects.

Utilizing the CubeSat platform, a small-scale satellite designed for rapid iteration and development, the SSRL is driving technological innovation at UGA. Currently, the lab is actively developing and launching new and innovative technologies into space through the construction of two satellites, funded by both the Air Force and NASA.

Missions
The SSRL is engaged in developing missions for CubeSats aimed at various objectives, including scientific research, technology demonstration, and educational outreach.

Publications
The SSRL regularly publishes research findings, mission updates, and technical reports related to its CubeSat projects and space exploration endeavors.

Software
The lab develops specialized software for CubeSat operations, including systems for mission planning, data acquisition, and satellite control.

Organization
The SSRL operates as an interdisciplinary research laboratory within the University of Georgia, collaborating with faculty and students from various departments and disciplines.