Director Named For Degree Program At VA Tech Innovation Campus

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Virginia Tech has named a program director for the first degree program launching at the Innovation Campus in Alexandria's Potomac Yard. Starting in January, Sara Hooshangi will oversee master of engineering degree in computer science program, set to kick off in spring 2020.

The program will provide a foundation preparing students for mid-level and advanced computing technology positions. Hooshangi sees the program as an opportunity to train students of diverse backgrounds for the growing tech industry in the DC region.

"Our focus on skills related to computer science is unique in the area," she said. "While it may be easy to find graduates with some technical skills, good software developers are hard to find. Good cybersecurity experts are hard to find. That’s where I think we’re going to shine."

Admission into the program will be flexible. Students can enroll after completing a second-semester programming course, which can be offered at undergraduate and community colleges. Part-time, full-time and accelerated study options will be available.

Hooshangi has been part of the faculty at George Washington University's College of Professional Studies since 2010. She's also the founding director for the Integrated Information, Science, and Technology program, a bachelor’s degree completion program tailored for community college students and working professionals. She has helped students balancing full-time jobs and family obligations work toward a technical bachelor’s degree and enter the tech pipeline. The program has grown from 12 students in the first year to 70 students graduating each year.

The Virginia Tech Innovation Campus will play a role in preparing tech talent for careers, a key factor leading to Amazon's decision to locate its second headquarters in Crystal City. The first master's degree programs at the Innovation Campus will be located in existing space. The city recently approved Virginia Tech's proposal to open initial campus space at two retail storefronts at the Potomac Yard shopping center.

As that temporary space is utilized, construction is expected to begin and last five years. The campus will be part of a mixed-use development, which will result in the redevelopment of the entire Potomac Yard Shopping Center. The Virginia Tech Foundation released its first concept plan for the campus along with JBG Smith and Lionstone's proposals for phase one redevelopment with office, retail and residential uses.

Virginia Tech and the developers will hold a public meeting introducing plans for the campus and mixed-use development Thursday, Nov. 14 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the National Industries for the Blind, second floor meeting room, 3000 Potomac Avenue, Alexandria.