What is Data Science?
Data Science is about gaining insights from data to make informed decisions. It is a new and developing interdisciplinary field, which involves using scientific methods, numerical algorithms, and dedicated software tools to extract insights from structured and unstructured data. It combines statistics, computer science, and discipline-specific knowledge to analyze and interpret complex data sets.
Data Science is distinct from computer science and software development. Computer Science is the development of code and algorithms, requiring a depth of understanding of computer programming and software architecture.
Software Development (or engineering) deals with the principles and applications of designing commercial software products.

Earning a Data Science certificate isn’t just a credential—it is the first step on your journey to a full Data Science degree and a thriving career in today’s data-powered economy. With hands-on experience tackling real-world datasets, you’ll build the skills that employers demand and learn how to visualize data. This certificate lays the groundwork for advanced study, bridging the gap between theory and practice, and it positions you for one of the fastest-growing fields for salary and job growth over the next decade. If you’re ready to transform your college experience and set yourself on the path toward a Data Science degree, this certificate is your launchpad. Don’t just graduate—graduate with the skills and vision to speak the language that’s driving business.

Jobs Outlook in Data Science

 

  • According to BLS, there are over 200,000 jobs in the Data Science sector and there is an expected 36% increase in the next 10 years.
  • The median pay is $108,000 (bottom 10%: $61,070; top 10%: $184,090 in 2023 per BLS).
  • Beyond full-time, titled Data Science positions, data science skills can be applied in smaller work environments across a broad set of industries.
  • Any business could benefit from analyzing the data collected during their course of business, and use that analysis to make data-informed decisions.
Data Science at EWC

The Data Science Certificate consists of 16 credits that can be completed in one year. With a sufficient math score, this certificate can be taken as a standalone program, which can enhance a student’s skills in the workplace, or can be incorporated into other EWC programs, such as business administration, social sciences, interdisciplinary studies, or mathematics. This program is designed to transfer as part of course requirements for the University of Wyoming Computing Minor.

 

Required Core Courses
COSC 1010 – Intro to Computer Science (3 credits, Fall)
COMP 2000 – Computing and Society (2 credits)
STAT 2050 – Fundamentals of Statistics (4 credits, Fall or Spring)
GIST 2200 – Spatial Data Visualization (3 credits) [Prerequisite: COSC1010])

 

Program Electives (choose one)
COSC 1030 – Computer Science I (4 credits, Spring, on demand) [Prerequisite: COSC 1010]
MATH 2200 – Calculus I (4 credits, Fall) [Prerequisite: College Algebra & Trigonometry]
MATH 2350 – Business Calculus (4 credits, Fall) [Prerequisite: College Algebra]
MATH 2335 – Math Applications for Business (4 credits, Spring) [Prerequisite: College Algebra]

* Students complete 16 credits


Andrew Lincowski, PhD

Associate Professor - Math

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