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The School of Mathematical and Computer Science at the Dubai campus has introduced a new programme – BSc (Hons) in Statistical Data Science that is scheduled to commence from September 2020. The University has launched the four-year undergraduate programme in response to the data-centric talent gap in the region and to train the next generation of statisticians with a focus on data science.
The rapid growth of data science has increased the awareness of the importance of statistics, with the analysis of data and interpretation of the results firmly embedded within this ever-expanding field. A recent report by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has estimated that there will be an additional 2.72 million new jobs created in data science and analytics this year. Moreover, Deloitte's Analytics Trends 2016 report noted that whilst there is a rising number of data-driven university courses, there are not enough to bridge the talent gap.
Data and analytics competencies are crucial in preparing and managing the workforce of the future. Forward-thinking organisations are already leveraging the big data revolution to radically improve decision-making, optimise processes, and predict behaviours and outcomes. Statistical Data Science is at the core of modern data analytics that turns data into intelligence to inform decision-making and solve challenging problems. Applications range from economics and medicine, to social and environmental sciences.
The programme covers theoretical and applied elements of modern statistics, and provides training and practical experience in modelling, analysing and interpreting real data required in the economy, industry and research. The early years of the degree cover basic mathematics, probability and statistics. The final years focus on advanced specialist topics in statistical modelling, data science, machine learning, probability and stochastic processes.
Upon the successful completion of the degree, students will have the knowledge and skills for the development, application and consequent analysis of suitable statistical models, as currently required in modern industrial sectors including the financial, medical, pharmaceutical and IT sector. Graduates will be in high demand. It is anticipated that the majority of students will be employed as statisticians within private and public institutions providing statistical advice/consultancy.
Heriot-Watt’s BSc (Hons) in Statistical Data Science is accredited by the Royal Statistical Society. Dubai campus students will also have the option of transferring to the Edinburgh campus from Year 3 to graduate with a BSc (Hons) in Actuarial Science and may also gain exemptions from some of the UK's Institute and Faculty of Actuaries professional examinations.
Admissions are now open for the September 2020 intake and prospective students can find more information by logging on to hw.ac.uk/dubai.