Department of Computer Science and Data Science

Sajid Hussain, Ph.D., chair and professor, computer science and data science

Sajid Hussain, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Computer Science and Data Science
sajid.hussain@mmc.edu

Thank you for your interest in the Department of Computer Science and Data Science. Our faculty are devoted to excellence in data science education and research that serve our local and global communities.

Data science as a new field has grown tremendously in the past several years due to its great potential to transform industries, health care, and scientific discovery. Our faculty are passionate about teaching data science skills and methodologies to train the next generation of data scientists.

We are also committed to cutting-edge research on a wide range of issues that arise in health care, business and sciences. Our interdisciplinary research includes artificial intelligence, machine learning, computational biology, genomics, complex human diseases, wearable devices and health informatics.

Our broad research presents opportunities for students to explore areas of their interest. We also collaborate with our colleagues across Meharry Medical College as well as investigators from other institutions and members of the health care, tech and business communities. By working together to provide solutions to society’s great challenges and in particular a transformative education, we continue to make a positive impact on our communities and the sciences.

Data Science Degree and certificates offered

Ph.D. Data Science

An advanced data science program that prepares students to pursue novel research that addresses challenging big data issues through advanced techniques like AI / ML, deep learning, advanced data analytics, and database design.


M.S. Artificial Intelligence

Focusing on applications to healthcare, the M.S. Artificial Intelligence program seeks to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in AI techniques, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision.

M.S. AI and Entrepreneurship

In today’s rapidly evolving market, a traditional business degree isn’t enough. Our Master of Science in AI and Entrepreneurship bridges the gap between advanced technology and strategic leadership. This program will empower the next generation of innovators to build, scale and lead AI-driven ventures.

M.S. Computer Science

The M.S. Computer Science program integrates artificial intelligence, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, with high-performance and quantum computing to prepare students for future, innovative careers in tech.


M.S. Cybersecurity Assurance

A healthcare focused program that integrates artificial intelligence with courses in advanced computing, data privacy and other technical, analytical and ethical concepts.


M.S. Data Science

The M.S. in Data Science program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering machine learning, data collection, statistical inference and data visualization and how to effectively communicate findings.

Data Science Graduate Certificate

The graduate certificate in data science will provide you the opportunity to acquire programming skills and a basic background in data science without the full investment of time and money of the master’s program.

AI and Data Analytics for Health Systems Certificate

Designed for professionals looking to expand their impact in a data-driven health care environment, this program prepares learners to tackle real-world challenges in clinical operations, population health and health system performance. 

Cybersecurity for Health and Medical Data Certificate

Blending hands-on training with real health care scenarios, this program prepares you to protect sensitive medical information, respond to breaches and support privacy-first security practices across the health care ecosystem.

Research and Development

We have applied data science methodologies to study many problems in health care, business and sciences. Below are example projects that we have explored solutions for:

  • Measles Rash Identification Using Residual Deep Convolutional Neural Network
  • Harnessing the Mobile health (mHealth) technology for early detection of adverse clinical events in hematologic cancer patients
  • Harnessing the Mobile health (mHealth) technology for early diagnosis and prediction of COVID-19 patients

We also support other meaningful research and development underway at the School of Applied Computational Sciences.

Student services

A goal in the Department of Computer Science and Data Science is to prepare students with the skills and experience they need for a successful career in research, industry or academia. Our student services staff support students throughout their Meharry experience as advisors on academic coursework and research projects. We also work with students to help prepare you for your career after Meharry.

Department Faculty

The faculty in the Department of Computer Science and Data Science are devoted to excellence in data science education and research that serve our local and global communities.

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