January 23, 2026Summer of AI 2026

Online • Asynchronous • 12 Transferable Credits

Master artificial intelligence, machine learning, and agentic systems in one intensive summer. Three 4-credit courses designed to take you from foundations to building autonomous AI agents—all online and asynchronous.

→ Register for Summer 2026

Session 1 (May 27 – June 30):

• Machine Learning

Session 2 (July 9 – August 11):

• Artificial Intelligence
• Agent Engineering

Take one, two, or all three courses!

CMPS 320: Machine Learning

Session 1 (May 27 – June 30) • 4 Credits

Build the mathematical and algorithmic foundation for modern AI. Implement regression, classification, and neural networks from scratch. Master the complete ML pipeline from data preprocessing to model evaluation and deployment.

Topics include: Linear & Logistic Regression, Decision Trees & Ensembles, Neural Networks & Backpropagation, Support Vector Machines, K-Means Clustering, Dimensionality Reduction (PCA), XGBoost & LightGBM, Deep Learning Foundations, Model Evaluation & Cross-Validation

CMPS 331: Artificial Intelligence

Session 2 (July 9 – August 11) • 4 Credits

Explore the core reasoning and representation techniques of AI. From search algorithms and game-playing to probabilistic reasoning and expert systems. Build intelligent systems that reason, plan, and make decisions under uncertainty.

Topics include: Search Algorithms (BFS, DFS, A*), Adversarial Search & Minimax, Alpha-Beta Pruning, Propositional & Predicate Logic, Bayesian Networks, Fuzzy Logic, Expert Systems, Planning & STRIPS, Knowledge Representation

CMPS 367: Agentic Software Architecture

Session 2 (July 9 – August 11) • 4 Credits

The cutting edge of AI engineering. Build autonomous AI agents that perceive, reason, and act. Master LLM integration, tool use, RAG systems, memory architectures, and multi-agent coordination. You’ll build a production-ready coding agent from scratch—then extend it with retrieval, memory, and skills systems.

Topics include: Transformer Architecture & LLMs, Agent Loop Design, Tool Use & Function Calling, Prompt Engineering & Context Engineering, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Memory Systems (Conversation, Episodic, Semantic), Multi-Agent Patterns, Model Context Protocol (MCP), LangChain & Framework Evaluation, Guardrails & AI Safety

Prerequisites

Ramapo Students: You should have completed CMPS 231 (Data Structures) or CMPS 240 (Programming II). These courses are designed for Computer Science, Data Science, and Cybersecurity majors.

Students from Other Institutions: If you have coursework in programming (Python, Java, C++, or similar), you’re likely prepared. Earn 12 transferable credits applicable to your CS or related major. Contact us with questions about your preparation.

Technical Requirements: Basic programming proficiency is required. Familiarity with Python is helpful but not required—you’ll gain extensive Python experience throughout the sequence. All courses are fully online and asynchronous.

Questions?

Wondering if this sequence is right for you? Curious about transferring credits or your preparation level? Reach out—we’re happy to help.

Scott Frees, Ph.D.
Convenor, Computer Science & Cybersecurity
Ramapo College of New Jersey
sfrees@ramapo.edu

→ Register for Summer 2026

Categories: Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Mathematics, News + Updates

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December 1, 2025Ramapo DMC 12/1 - Updates and important events

Dear DMC Students – 

As we wind down on the Fall semester, please keep the following in mind:

Spring 2026 Registration

If you have not registered for your Spring 2026 classes yet please do so immediately.  The College modifies course offerings based on enrollment – over enrolled and under enrolled courses necessitate changes, and delaying your registration reduces our ability to make those adjustments for you.

If you are eligible for CMPS 366 (Organization of Programming Languages), please register for Spring 2026.  There is no guarantee an alternative will be available in Fall 2026, so do not delay taking this course.

Winter 2026 Registration

Two courses being offered relevant to your majors this Winter – CMPS 130 and CMPS 147.  CMPS 130 is a required course in Data Science, CMPS 147 is a required course in Computer Science and Cybersecurity.   If you have questions about the Winter session, please email me.

Graduate Students – Thesis Proposal Course

If you are an MS student and plan to do your Thesis in either Summer 2026 or Fall 2026, please register for your 1-credit Thesis Proposal in Spring 2026.  This is a required course that you must complete prior to your thesis semester.  It is currently open for registration.  Please contact me if you have any trouble signing up.

4+1 MSDS / MSCS / MSAM (Seniors)

Registration for graduate courses as an undergraduate requires an override (even if you are in the 4+1).  Email me to get the override for registration!Read more

Looking for a job?  ITS is looking for a programmer

See the job and apply here

Categories: Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Mathematics, MSCS, MSDS, News + Updates

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January 28, 2025DMC Fair keynote speaker: Michael Geraghty

Director of the NJ Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) and Chief Information Security Officer for the State of New Jersey

DMC Fair Save-The-Date!

Date/Time: Wednesday, 4/23/25, 5-7 pm

Location: Ramapo College, Trustees Pavilion

Join us for the Center for Data, Mathematical, and Computational Sciences (DMC) Fair on April 23th, 2025.

Following the keynote speech, attendees can view posters showcasing Ramapo students’ research projects in Data, Mathematical, and Computational Sciences. Attendees will be able to network with Ramapo students and faculty as well as industry professionals. Awards will be given for the best posters and refreshments will be served.

From Bytes to Insights: Practical Data Science Applications in Cybersecurity

In this presentation, Michael Geraghty, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the State of New Jersey will bridge the gap between academic data science concepts and their real-world applications in the field of cybersecurity. Drawing from extensive industry experience, Mr. Geraghty will demonstrate how data science techniques are applied in threat detection, risk assessment, and incident response in enterprise environments. Through case studies and practical examples, attendees will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities of applying data science in a cybersecurity context. By the end of the session, attendees will have a clearer understanding of how their data science skills can be applied to solve real-world cybersecurity problems, as well as the career paths available in this rapidly evolving field. The talk will conclude with a Q&A session.

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Michael Geraghty is the State of New Jersey’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Director of the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC). In these roles Director Geraghty is responsible for the development and execution of the State’s cybersecurity strategy. He is responsible for leading and coordinating New Jersey’s cybersecurity efforts while building resiliency throughout the State and has direct responsibility for all aspects of statewide cybersecurity operations; governance, risk and compliance; and incident response.

Mr. Geraghty is an accomplished cybersecurity executive with a history of building innovative and model programs in private and public sector enterprises including roles as CISO of the Hudson’s Bay Company, Chief Information Officer of the National and International Centers for Missing and Exploited Children, Vice President of High Technology Investigations at Prudential Financial, and Network Intrusion Detection Manager, Lucent Technologies/Bell Labs. Mr. Geraghty began his career with the New Jersey State Police, where he served 12 years and led the formation and development of its High Technology Crimes Investigations Unit.

He has provided expert testimony before the United States Congress and in federal, state, and international courts on computer crime investigations and forensics. Geraghty is a past president of the Northeast Chapter of the High Technology Crimes Investigation Association and has held leadership roles in the National Strategic Policy Council on Cyber and Electronic Crime.

Categories: Data Science, Lecture Series, Mathematics, MSCS, MSDS

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October 22, 2024Larry Shapiro - AI implementation for Finance Operations

AI implementation in Finance operations

Speaker: Larry Shapiro from PwC
When: Monday 11/11 at 6:30pm – Room ASB 136
Topic:  AI implementation in Finance operations:  Larry Shapiro leads the Global Oracle ERP implementation at PwC including application of AI to finance operations and engagement management.   Larry’s talk will resemble a real life case study on how leaders in large global enterprises embrace AI.

Some of the topics he will cover include:

Leadership Concerns:

1. Risk Management: AI-related risks (e.g., model drift, bias, security breaches).
2. Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, FINRA).
3. Return on Investment (ROI): Measuring AI’s financial benefits.

Ethical Considerations:

1. Bias and Fairness: Ensuring AI systems don’t perpetuate existing biases.
2. Transparency and Explainability: Understanding AI-driven decisions.
3. Data Privacy: Protecting sensitive financial information.

Strategic Imperatives:

1. Digital Transformation: AI’s role in modernizing finance operations.
2. Competitive Advantage: Leveraging AI for financial insights and agility.
3. Talent and Skills: Upskilling/reskilling workforce for AI-driven finance.

Implementation Challenges:

1. Change Management: Overcoming organizational resistance.
2. Data Quality and Integration: Ensuring accurate and unified data.
3. Scalability and Security: Deploying AI solutions enterprise-wide.

Please contact Jane Riff ( jriff@ramapo.edu ) for more information.

Categories: Data Science, Lecture Series, Mathematics, MSCS, MSDS

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September 9, 2024Dr. Geena Taite - Mathematical Modeling Education: My Journey Connecting Theory with Practice talk - 9/11 @ 4:15pm

Mathematical Modeling Education: My Journey Connecting Theory with PracticeDr. Geena Taite

Brief Abstract: Dr. Geena Taite, Ramapo College undergraduate alumna of the mathematics program, Ramapo College adjunct professor, and PCTI STEM Academy mathematics teacher, shares her doctoral experiences learning about mathematical modeling education. These experiences led her to connect theory with practice through designing and facilitating sessions for pre-service mathematics teachers and also professional development for in-service mathematics teachers. At this talk you will engage in a brief mathematical modeling task, learn about Geena’s doctoral experiences that led to her dissertation work, and hear findings from her recently published dissertation.

Speaker Brief Bio: Dr. Geena Taite. Dr. Taite is a graduate of our mathematics program at Ramapo College and a success story of our mathematics program. Dr. Taite received her Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from Montclair State University.  Her talk is both an educational and an inspirational event for you, and a great networking opportunity.

Categories: Lecture Series, Mathematics

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