皇家华人

New Data Science Program Prepares VSU Grads to Solve Real-World Problems

VALDOSTA — With a focus on developing forward-thinking, future-ready graduates with the skills, knowledge, and agility needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global landscape, 皇家华人 State University is proud to announce the launch of a new degree program — the Bachelor of Science in Data Science. 

Strategically designed to meet local, regional, and statewide workforce demands, VSU’s Bachelor of Science in Data Science will contribute to Georgia’s economic growth, innovation capacity, and long-term competitiveness by developing a pipeline of highly trained professionals with essential skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and computational techniques.

“Data is the lifeblood of informed decision making,” said Dr. Shaun Ault, head of VSU’s Department of Data Science, which is housed in the College of Science and Mathematics. “The field of data science has emerged relatively recently as a bridge linking statistical analysis with real-world problem-solving using powerful algorithms and computer programming.”

The new Bachelor of Science in Data Science stands out from other programs at VSU due to its interdisciplinary nature. Throughout their four years in the program, students are required to study mathematics, laboratory sciences, the humanities, writing, social sciences, business, computer science, engineering technology, accounting, and domain-specific courses. This integrated approach is designed to equip program graduates with diverse skills to address real-world employer needs. 

Students can tailor their educational experience by choosing from three major concentrations — Business Analytics, which focuses on leveraging data for informed business decisions; Computer Science and Engineering, which delves into advanced programming and algorithm development; and Supply Chain Management, which emphasizes data-driven strategies for optimizing logistics and operations. These concentrations prepare VSU graduates to excel in the rapidly evolving field of data science across various industries, are designed to align with the needs of VSU's local and regional partners, and serve the future growth of the Georgia economy.

Ault said the College of Science and Mathematics plans to add additional concentrations in Computational Astrophysics and Computational Physics by Fall 2026. Concentrations in Actuarial Science as well as Applied Mathematics and Statistics will follow in Fall 2027. Other areas under consideration including Earth and Atmospheric Analysis. 

“I’m most looking forward to seeing our students graduate with cutting-edge skills that open doors across many industries,” Ault shared. “The transition from the Department of Physics and Applied Mathematics to the Department of Data Science has been both challenging and exciting, but it positions VSU to prepare students for the data-driven careers of the future. I’m also excited about the new collaborations this program will inspire across STEM fields, creating opportunities for innovation and growth across campus.”

To pave the way for the new Department of Data Science and Bachelor of Science in Data Science, VSU deactivated its Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics, Bachelor of Science in Physics, Bachelor of Science in Astronomy, and Bachelor of Arts in Pure Mathematics in early 2024.    

“It is important to note that our department still does math and physics,” Ault said. “As we work toward new concentrations and tracks in areas of math and physics, we have not lost sight of our roots in the STEM fields. We look to a future in which students may choose to pursue mathematics, physics, astronomy, actuarial science, logistics, computer science and engineering, or business analytics within the common framework of the Bachelor of Science in Data Science.”

Developed in close collaboration with industry experts, academic leaders, and workforce trend analysts, VSU’s new Bachelor of Science in Data Science is currently accepting applications. Prospective students who are interested in a unique academic program that integrates interdisciplinary learning, hands-on experience, and a strong focus on innovation and adaptability are encouraged to contact Dr. Shaun Ault at svault@valdosta.edu or (229) 333-5778.