A new major is now available for students at Augustana College. Monday it officially began offering degrees in data analytics.
Doctor Marty Coe, chair of the new department, says a recent study identifed data analytics as number three on the list of fastest growing jobs, with an annual growth rate of 37 per cent.
"Data analytics is one of the most highly demanded professions and skills today. We can't produce enough graduates in that area. All our business partners and our alumni from Augustana that we've talked to consistently told us this is where we need to put our energy."
Augustana began offering a minor in data analytics two years ago, and currently 40 students are enrolled, and Monday ten students declared it will be their major field of study.
Coe says analyzing data is a valuable skill in a wide range of fields - not just in business but in government and even for non-profit organizations.
Students majoring in this new department at Augustana will take courses in statistics, computer science, data analytics, and ethics.
