Human Data Science Degree: Enhancing Data Management in Human-Centered Design & Engineering

Explore the Data Science degree option within the Bachelor of Science in Human Centered Design & Engineering, focusing on effective data management and sharing strategies.

Introduction

In today’s data-driven world, Human Data Science stands at the intersection of technology, design, and human behavior. The Bachelor of Science in Human Centered Design & Engineering (HCDE) offers a specialized Data Science degree option that equips students with the skills necessary to navigate and manage complex datasets effectively. This program emphasizes data management and sharing strategies, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to address critical data-intensive challenges in various industries.

What is Human Data Science?

Human Data Science is an interdisciplinary field that combines data management, programming, statistics, machine learning, visualization, and human-centered design. It focuses on not only extracting meaningful insights from data but also ensuring that these insights are accessible and actionable for designing solutions that cater to human needs. As organizations increasingly rely on data to drive decisions, the demand for professionals skilled in Human Data Science continues to grow.

Data Management and Sharing in Human Data Science

Effective data management and sharing are cornerstone practices within the Human Data Science framework. Proper data handling ensures that information is accurate, secure, and available for analysis and collaboration.

Data Repository Selection

Choosing the right data repository is crucial for efficient data storage and retrieval. The HCDE program guides students through the process of selecting repositories that align with their project needs, whether it’s for small-scale studies or large, complex datasets. Factors such as scalability, security, accessibility, and compatibility with analytical tools are considered to ensure optimal data management.

Data Sharing Policies

Establishing clear data sharing policies is essential for maintaining data integrity and compliance with legal and ethical standards. Students learn to develop policies that govern who can access data, how it can be used, and the protocols for sharing information both within and outside their organizations. These policies help safeguard sensitive information and promote responsible data usage.

Human Data Science Degree in Human-Centered Design & Engineering

The Data Science degree option within the HCDE program is designed to provide a comprehensive education in data management and analysis, tailored to human-centered applications.

Description

This degree option integrates Human Data Science principles into the broader context of design and engineering. Students gain expertise in managing large datasets, employing statistical methods, and utilizing machine learning techniques to solve real-world problems. The curriculum is structured to enhance their marketability and enable them to contribute significantly to data-driven solutions.

Course Requirements

To fulfill the Data Science degree option, students must complete a minimum of 25 credits from an approved list of courses. Key courses include:

• HCDE 411: Information Visualization (5 credits)
• SOC 225: Data and Society (3/5 credits)
• CSE 123/143: Computer Programming (satisfies Engineering Fundamentals)
• Data Science Course Areas:
• Machine Learning: CSE 416 or STAT 416
• Data Management: CSE 414 or INFO 430
• Statistics: STAT 390, STAT 403/Q SCI 403, or STAT 425/BIOST 425

Additional HCDE elective courses are required to reach the 25-credit minimum, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within Human Data Science.

Degree Planning

Degree planning involves strategically selecting courses that meet both the Data Science and HCDE requirements. Due to prerequisites and scheduling constraints, most students concentrate on courses like CSE 416, CSE 414, and STAT 390. The HCDE advising team assists students in navigating these challenges, ensuring they stay on track for timely graduation.

Retirement of the Data Science Option

Effective Winter 2024, the HCDE faculty have decided to suspend admission to the Data Science Option. This means that undergraduates admitted after Autumn 2023 will not be eligible to declare the option. However, those admitted before this cutoff can still pursue the degree by scheduling an appointment with HCDE BS Advising by December 8, 2023.

Impact on Students

Current students who wish to continue with the Data Science Option must act promptly to adjust their academic plans. The department will not approve late degree option changes that extend graduation beyond the University of Washington’s Satisfactory Progress Policy and the HCDE Continuation Policy. Students affected by this change are encouraged to explore alternative pathways, such as the Standard Option or the Data Science minor, to complement their studies without delaying graduation.

Alternatives and Future Directions

With the retirement of the Data Science Option, students have alternative avenues to integrate Human Data Science into their academic journey.

Standard Option

The Standard Option offers greater flexibility, allowing students to design a personalized curriculum that incorporates data science principles alongside other areas of interest within human-centered design and engineering.

Data Science Minor

For those interested in a more focused exploration of data science, the Data Science minor provides a complementary credential. This minor offers a diverse range of courses, enabling students to deepen their data management and analytical skills without the constraints of the Data Science Option.

Conclusion

The Human Data Science Degree within the HCDE program plays a pivotal role in shaping professionals capable of managing and leveraging data for human-centered solutions. Despite the upcoming retirement of the Data Science Option, students have multiple pathways to integrate data science into their education, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-evolving job market. As data continues to drive innovation across industries, the skills acquired through Human Data Science will remain invaluable.

Ready to transform your career with cutting-edge data science skills? Discover more about our programs and take the next step towards becoming a leader in Human Data Science.