Florida International University launches bachelor’s degree in data science and artificial intelligence to strategically position students for success in an evolving technology landscape.
New degree, launched in fall 2024, will give students fundamental knowledge in two complementary and growing sectors: data science, the heavily statistical field where information is obtained through the analysis of numbers; and AI, the technology that uses this information to make intelligent decisions.
Artificial intelligence relies heavily on data science to make intelligent choices, says Jason Liu, an endowed professor of computer science and director of the Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences.
“AI needs data science like humans need water,” says Liu. “After speaking with our industry partners and community leaders, we are confident that this degree will prepare students for long-term success in industries revolutionized by artificial intelligence.”
AI and data science skills are in demand in industries ranging from construction to business to healthcare. Data scientists had a median salary of $108,020 in 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment of data scientists is expected to grow 35% by 2032.
The new degree includes several courses in computer science, statistics and mathematics. Students can develop unique skills by choosing one of the following three concentrations:
- Computer analysis and Big Data
- Artificial intelligence and robotics
- Statistical modeling
Student learning activities will be supported by a new data science learning center with NVIDIA A100-based servers. These servers run on the same technology used by many of the major language models and chatbots that are making headlines today.
FIU’s new bachelor’s degree marks the university’s latest initiative to lead the way in AI research and education. Approximately 20 faculty members are currently conducting grant-funded, AI-focused research at KFSCIS.
“At FIU, our mission is to develop top-notch leaders in the cutting-edge technologies that are reshaping our world,” says Inés R. Triay, interim dean of the College of Engineering and Computing. “Our commitment to this mission is stronger than ever, as evidenced by strategic initiatives such as the imminent opening of our new six-story, 125,000 square foot innovation complex and the launch of degree programs like our baccalaureate in data science and AI.
