Augusta University’s School of Computer and Cyber Sciences (SCCS) has recently announced the launch of a new Bachelor of Science in Data Science program.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for data scientists is rapidly growing, especially compared to all other occupations, with a projected growth rate of 31% from 2020 to 2030.
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With International Business Machines Corp., or IBM, predicting over 2.7 million job openings by 2030 and Georgia estimating 7,100, Richmond County has been identified in the state as one of the top 10 areas for growth in the data sciences field.
To meet the increasing demand for data science professionals in Georgia, the curriculum for the new Data Sciences degree was defined in collaboration by the faculty of AU’s SCCS and the College of Science and Mathematics.
“Students earning the B.S. in Data Science will help meet this demand, driving economic development, enhancing industry readiness and fostering research innovation,” stated a press release from AU.
Approved by the University System of Georgia for Fall 2024 and designed to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in a computer-run world, according to a press release from the university, the data program promises to be a catalyst for innovation and economic development.
“We are excited to offer the new Bachelor of Science in Data Science program. There is a great demand for data scientists, both in our region and nationally,” said Alexander Schwarzmann, the dean of the AU’s SCCS.
As AU boasts multiple partnerships – including the Department of Defense entities at Fort Eisenhower, the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center, the Savannah River National Lab and the National Security Agency – Schwarzmann said the SCCS is in a great position to prepare the next generation of data scientists.
“Augusta University is uniquely equipped to cultivate the next generation of data scientists. Our growing ties with industry partners and partnerships … allow our students to receive exceptional training for successful careers and empower them to make significant contributions to our increasingly digital society,” he said.
The degree’s course encompasses core data science competencies, such as: statistical analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence and programming.
Students of the program will reportedly benefit from interdisciplinary coursework that connects computer science with practical applications in health informatics, cybersecurity and data-intensive computational areas.
“The data science undergraduate curriculum includes rigorous preparation in mathematics, statistics and computer science, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in today’s data-driven world,” said Gursimran Walia, associate dean for the academic affairs for SCCS and interim director of the data science program.
Through AU’s new bachelor’s degree, graduates will be taught how to analyze and leverage data effectively, while “driving innovation” and making informed decisions across various fields, including health sciences, cybersecurity and business.
“Our program offers hands-on opportunities for undergraduate research and industrial capstone projects, empowering students to tackle real-world challenges with data-driven solutions,” Walia said.
Currently, the university already offers a Master of Science in Data Science in partnership with the School of Public Health, providing students training in data science methods that “empower them with innovative data science methods” to address complex problems, stated AU’s press release.
Future plans for the field will include offering a fast-track combined bachelor’s and master’s program in Data Science that can be completed in five years. The bachelor’s program also lays the groundwork for offering micro-credentials and online certificates for data sciences.
“Data science is transforming fields from health care to economics, converting raw data into powerful insights,” said AU’s Department of Mathematics Chair Seth Oppenheimer.
In addition, an industrial data science capstone project, required for all majors, will forge stronger connections between AU and private and public sector enterprises, which will enhance students’ overall educational experiences.
“AU’s Data Science program will unlock new opportunities for our students, enabling them to advance and innovate, while supplying essential knowledge workers for Georgia, the nation and beyond,” Oppenheimer said.
For more information about AU’s new Bachelor of Science in Data Science, visit: https://www.augusta.edu/programs/data-science-bs.php
