From political briefings to genomic sequences to historical maps, data is present in just about every discipline. The minor in Applied Statistics and Data Science (ASDS) shows students how to identify and apply data to deepen their understanding of the analytic aspects of their major. At the same time, students develop some of the 21st century’s most in-demand job skills. The ability to find and evaluate data from diverse sources — and assess the integrity of those sources — drives strategic decision making and problem solving at a high organizational level in every profession.
Learn the language of virtually all professions
The Minor in Applied Statistics and Data Science develops students into critical consumers of data who can craft their findings into a story, both textually and visually. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the most critical skill sought by employers today, regardless of major and across all industries, is the ability to “exercise sound reasoning to analyze issues, make decisions and overcome problems.” The ASDS minor blends these skills into a data-forward curriculum that covers topics such as data inquiry and analysis, technological competency, information fluency and quantitative reasoning. The dynamic mindset toward problem solving and data analysis that students develop remains a highly regarded skill by employers. Job opportunities are expected to grow in almost all industry sectors, including finance, information technology and insurance; manufacturing; professional, scientific and technical services; health care and social assistance; and retail.
