Boston University

The developments and progressions of technology have historically been marked by polarized and different attitudes. This motif has been seen in the creation of social media, cell phones, and most recently, AI and computer data science. 

This wave of computer data science, as well as the developments in artificial intelligence have been widespread, an example of which being the  Rafik B. Hariri Institute for Computing and Computational Science and Engineering at Boston University, an institute created in 2010. 

The Rafik B. Hariri Institue serves as the foundational beginnings of Boston University’s data science endeavors, teaching students how to apply data science to various fields rather than focusing on individual technologies. The online program that the institute offers is a flexible 16 month course that is designed to train professionals on how to use data science and AI, and how to apply that knowledge to various industries, ranging from marketing to public health. 

Unlike other programs that may exist, this program offered by Boston University emphasizes using data science technology to solve practical problems, which they state helps students be more prepared for rapidly expanding carrer opportunities, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 35% increase in data scientist jobs by 2032. The OMDS program is part of BU’s mission to democratize access to data science and AI education, offering a pathway for mid-career professionals to enhance their skills without leaving their jobs.

By: Arjun Desai