Major Announcement

It’s “time to realize the significant role that computing and learning play in our daily lives,” says Associate Professor Shuchin Aeron. Last semester, for the first time, Tufts undergraduates were able to declare a major—or double major—in data science. The new School of Engineering track was created as a joint effort by Professor Alva Couch (computer science) and Aeron (electrical and computer engineering).

Data science refers to the principles and practices in data analysis that support data-centric, real-world problem solving. It’s “a mix of applied statistics, computer science, machine learning, and obscure fields such as decision theory,” Couch elaborates.

“Society increasingly needs experts in data-intensive science to help solve real-world problems,” shares Jianmin Qu, dean of the School of Engineering. “[Our] program is designed to educate the next generation of engineers who will go on to empower informed decision- making in industry, government, academia, and more.”

Student enthusiasm also played a large part in the development of the track, with many undergraduates contemplating careers in the field. After all, “data scientist” holds the top spot on Glassdoor’s list of the 50 best jobs in America for the third year in a row.

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science is described  by Couch as an “agile degree program” that will react to new technological developments and innovations  as they occur.

Aeron adds: “It is really exciting to teach and educate future engineers … how to closely collaborate with  folks in bio, physics, and other domains to make human life better.”

By the Numbers

• #1 on Glassdoor's list of the 50 best jobs in America
• 20 declared majors in the first semester of the program
• 38 courses required to earn the Bachelor of Science

Special thanks to Sarah Minster, A21, who provided original reporting for this article.