Cal State Fullerton is offering a new minor in data science to prepare students for careers in a data-driven world and provide them with practical knowledge of the methods and techniques of data analysis.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of data scientists is projected to grow 36% between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, said Jessica Jaynes, professor of mathematics and coordinator of the data science minor program.
Data scientists are needed in career fields ranging from artificial intelligence, software development, biomedical research, data-driven policy analysis and behavioral research.
“With this rising demand, a data science minor is a valuable investment and prepares students with the skills needed to thrive in one of the fastest-growing and most impactful career fields,” Jaynes said.
Data science uses statistics, computer science and domain expertise to analyze and interpret data on real-life issues. The field deals with mechanisms associated with the generation, collection, summarization and analysis of data.
“By bridging technical expertise with domain-specific knowledge, the minor prepares students to apply data science methods in diverse contexts and to graduate with a competitive advantage,” Jaynes said.
To prepare for his future career as a data scientist and learn more about the multidisciplinary field, mathematics major Yamir Ortuno enrolled in the data science minor.
“What I find most fascinating about data science is that, in analyzing data, I can blend my love of mathematical problem-solving with storytelling,” said Ortuno, a junior.
Data scientists play a critical role in the workforce, with organizations across all industries relying on data to guide decision-making.
Professionals in the field collect and analyze large datasets to uncover patterns and trends. They also develop predictive models, apply machine learning techniques, and translate data into actionable strategies that drive innovation and efficiency.
“The data science minor is helping me understand complex information and discover patterns to approach challenges more clearly,” Ortuno said.
The minor degree program incorporates existing courses on various topics, including the foundations of data science, computing and programming, machine learning, statistics and interdisciplinary research.
As part of the minor, students complete a culminating experience through independent study, engaging with data science research projects guided by faculty from multiple colleges and fields.
“The design of the minor program ensures a strong foundation in core principles and practical skills while offering flexibility for students to tailor the minor to their academic and career interests,” Jaynes said.
The minor, made possible with support from a California Education Learning Lab grant, is intentionally structured to complement a variety of majors. The program enables students to integrate data science into business, health care, engineering, government, social sciences and the humanities.
The program emerged from a campuswide data science initiative, led by the vision of Sam Behseta, professor emeritus of mathematics and 2022 Outstanding Professor.
“Through Dr. Behseta’s passion, dedication and inspirational leadership to interdisciplinary learning, he laid the foundation for a minor that empowers students to apply data science across diverse fields,” Jaynes said.
Behseta credited Amir Dabirian, provost and vice president for academic affairs, and College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics’ Dan Black Dean Marie Johnson, for their support in creating the data science program.
“Their unwavering commitment came despite the complexity of the task,” Behseta said.