Heriot-Watt University Dubai launches undergraduate programme in Statistical Data Science | Education - ZAWYA

The programme aims to prepare the next generation of data-focused statisticians as demand for skilled talent grows rapidly in the region, from Press Release.

Heriot-Watt University Dubai launches undergraduate programme in Statistical Data Science

Heriot-Watt University Dubai has added a new programme – BSc (Hons) in Statistical Data Science to its plethora of programmes that is scheduled to commence from September 2020. The University has launched the four-year undergraduate programme in an effort to address 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. Additionally, Deloitte's Analytics Trends 2016 report noted that whilst there is a rising number of data-driven university courses, these 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.  

Haslifah Hasim, Associate Professor of Actuarial Mathematics & Statistics, School of Mathematical & Computer Sciences, Heriot-Watt University Dubai said, “The introduction of BSc (Hons) Statistical Data Science at our Dubai campus demonstrates Heriot-Watt's commitment to respond to the diverse needs of the UAE and the MENA region, where we are witnessing a rapidly growing demand outpacing the supply of strong analytical talent...

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  
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About Heriot-Watt University Dubai  

As the first British university to set up a campus in Dubai in 2005, and the only one with a five-star accreditation by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Heriot-Watt University Dubai has established itself as a pioneer in the higher education market in the UAE. The University’s reputation for world-class teaching and practical, leading-edge research combined with its strong links to business and industry, has seen it attract a thriving population of undergraduate and postgraduate students.  

Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers an extensive range of programmes and disciplines, spanning postgraduate and undergraduate courses.
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Source: ZAWYA