Valparaiso University Introduces Data Science and Statistics Degrees

The College of Arts and Sciences at Valparaiso University has developed data science and statistics degree programs in response to an increased demand for professionals in these fields.

According to CNN Money, the data science field will grow 18.7 percent in the next 10 years, and McKinsey Global Institute predicts 140,000–190,000 job openings by 2018. Organizations are already struggling to find professionals qualified to work in data science. Graduating with a degree in either data science or statistics will allow a professional to tap into the significant growth this field is currently experiencing.

Students in the data science and statistics programs will be given the skills to maximize their potential in the growing big data field through rigorous study of vital skills such as machine learning, statistical modeling, data mining and experimental design as well as specialized courses focused on specific niches of the data market.

In addition to the bachelor’s degree offerings, students enrolled in the data science program can pursue a 4+1 option with a master’s degree in analytics and modeling through Valpo’s Graduate School.

The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Valpo’s five undergraduate colleges offering more than 70 academic programs in 21 departments. The bachelor of science in data science is a partnership between the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and the Department of Computing and Information Sciences. The bachelor of arts in statistics gives students a foundation in statistical theory and focuses on statistical analysis application.