Data Science Degree (and More) Coming to Cal Lutheran University

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. - March 20, 2024 - PRLog -- Data science is a well-paying, in-demand occupation expected to grow by 35% by 2032, which is considered much faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To prepare students for data-driven careers and to meet industry needs, California Lutheran University is launching a data science bachelor's degree for Fall 2024. Cal Lutheran is also adding new bachelor's and master's degree programs and online options that are ideal for working professionals.

The data science program is a holistic blend of mathematics, statistics and computer science, taught through theory and hands-on training. Students can select their electives and choose an optional minor to tailor the program to meet their needs. There are no prerequisites, so students can begin taking classes in the major their first year.

Cal Lutheran professors Dr. Christopher Brown, mathematics department, and Dr. John Garcia, School of Management, created the curriculum and sought input from faculty in related programs. Curriculum guidelines from two professional associations were also consulted. Before the curriculum was finalized, an industry advisory group reviewed it and provided input.

Degrees and programs beginning Fall 2024:

• Sport Management Master of Science degree. Complements the existing bachelor's degree focused on the global, competitive sports industry. The fully online master's program exposes students to sport management theories, and trends and practices from around the world and enables students to develop proficiencies in data-driven decision-making processes.
• Communications Majors: Advertising/public relations, journalism, and sports communications have been added as majors within the communications degree program.
• Museum Studies has been added as a major within the history degree program.
• Two-year Path to Credentialing for Transfer Students: Designed for students transferring to Cal Lutheran with an Associate Degree for Transfer in education or child development from a community college, this program paves the way to move into Cal Lutheran's Graduate School of Education's teaching credential program. Students can graduate with a bachelor's degree and a multiple- or single-subject credential simultaneously at the end of their second year.

In-person programs expanded to be offered fully online:

Cal Lutheran plans to offer 11 fully online graduate and undergraduate professional programs as an alternative to corresponding in-person programs. It will start 1 new online-only program.

• School of Professional and Continuing Studies: Majors in the Bachelor's Degree for Professionals include business management, criminology and justice studies, organizational leadership, psychological and behavioral sciences and strategic communication. Accounting and financial analysis will be added for the Spring 2024 semester.
• School of Management: Degrees include Master of Public Policy and Administration, Master of Science in Management and Master of Science degree in Information Technology.

For more information, visit CalLutheran.edu (http://www.callutheran.edu/).