This major combines study in math and computer science with a firm foundation in the liberal arts. In her TED Talk on challenges in interpreting big data, data analyst Susan Etlinger said: “What we need to do instead is spend a little bit more time on things like the humanities and sociology, and the social sciences, rhetoric, philosophy, ethics, because they give us context that is so important for big data, and because they help us become better critical thinkers.”

OWU’s program requires students to be strong in quantitative methodology, and it helps you develop the skills to use data to explore and make connections in larger social, political, and economic contexts. In addition to foundational studies in mathematics and computer science, you also will take courses in:

• The social, ethical, and cultural impacts of big data in our lives
• Data visualization, where you’ll learn how to communicate effectively with data
• Science writing
• And data-related issues in the sciences, humanities, and arts.

Since careers in data analytics span many industries, this can be a valuable second major. Ohio Wesleyan also offers minors in data analytics and data and society.