UW School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences adds three degree programs

UW School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences adds three degree programs

The School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences is home to the UW–Madison’s largest major, Computer Sciences, and the fastest-growing major, Data Science. PHOTO: BRYCE RICHTER

The School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences is home to the UW–Madison’s largest major, Computer Sciences, and the fastest-growing major, Data Science. PHOTO: BRYCE RICHTER

 

The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences is adding three new degree programs to its growing portfolio to meet mounting interest from employers and students and increase access to technology curriculum at the university.

Technical expertise in computer and data science is essential for building systems that pave the way for innovation and transformation. At the same time, understanding how to ethically apply computing and data science is becoming more integral to professions beyond technology-specific fields. To meet the evolving needs of today’s data-driven world, CDIS will offer new master’s degrees in data science and in data engineering and a new bachelor’s of arts or bachelor’s of science degree in information science.

The new degree programs, which will launch in the fall, are designed to increase skills that are in high demand, preparing a talent pipeline that will drive economic growth in the region and beyond.

“What’s exciting about these new programs is that we’re creating more pathways for students,” says Tom Erickson, founding director of CDIS. “Not only will graduates be able to specialize in emerging fields, but we’ll also train undergraduates to apply digital skills to improve communities.”

The interdisciplinary approach of the new programs is another bold step CDIS — which was created in 2019 and is home to UW–Madison’s largest and fastest-growing degree programs — is taking to disrupt the traditional model of higher education.

“We distinguished ourselves from our peers with the creation of CDIS because we recognized the transformative power the school would have intersecting with the humanities and social sciences” says Eric Wilcots, dean of UW–Madison’s College of Letters & Science.

The new programs support priorities to prepare students for successful careers of the future.

Full article