Minot State offers new program in data science
MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University’s Department of Mathematics and Computer Science is offering a new data science degree beginning Fall 2023.
“If there was one minor I would suggest for any student to consider — regardless of their field of interest — it would be data science,” said Daren Erisman, computer science assistant professor. “It is fundamental to being equipped for today’s data-driven world.”
Data science takes partial information and seeks to make reliable conclusions. From forecasting how much it will rain or when the next big earthquake might come, to predicting trends in the stock market, to enabling an autonomous car to make decisions on the road, to discovering biological connections between genetics and diseases, the industry is only continuing to grow.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of data scientists is projected to grow 36% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. In 2021, data scientists earned a median pay of $100,910 per year.
“It is estimated that the volume of data generated between 2010 and 2020 increased over 5,000% over the previous decade,” said Darren Seifert, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science chair. “Data scientists help discover connections and evaluate patterns within these vast collections of data.”
Students will now be able to choose from earning their Bachelor of Science, minor, or program certificate in data science or a program certificate in data analytics from the University.
All core data science courses are available online or in person on Minot State’s campus, and the program draws from three key areas that define data science today: math, computer science, and business.
“Knowledge from all three of these domains is what makes data scientists so valuable in both the corporate world and as researchers,” said Seifert. “Data science can be leveraged to provide solutions within the health sciences, finance, logistics, and many other areas.”
While at Minot State, data science students will learn important skills about working with big data and gain essential first-hand knowledge. Internships, conference presentations, and other career-building opportunities will also be encouraged as part of the program.
“This flexibility makes it a great degree program for Minot State,” said Seifert. “Students can pursue an undergraduate degree with the intention of furthering their education in graduate school, or they can combine the degree with their interests in nearly any other field.”
To learn more about Minot State’s data science program visit MinotStateU.edu/enroll/programs/data-science.shtml or contact Erisman at daren.erisman@MinotStateU.edu.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 04/13/23
