We live in an era of big data that encompasses a wide range of industries and businesses. The need for people who understand how to work with data, analyze data and manage it is rapidly increasing. 

This presentation will give some insight in how universities have responded to these needs over time, what catalysts started development of new research and courses.  As an example, we will discuss how we built on the professional science master’s programs at Rice University to respond to workforce needs. These are two-year graduate programs designed to fill a management need for technology-based companies, governmental agencies, and non-profit organizations. Students pursue advanced training in science, while simultaneously developing valued business skills. These programs combine rigorous study in science or mathematics with coursework in management, policy, or law and emphasize writing and communication skills, to create graduates that can seamlessly transition into valuable positions in industry and business.

These programs provide the ideal framework to hone in on new skills needed by industry and academia.