Why Data Science Degrees are Valuable in the Era of AI

In a job market that has been rapidly shaped by advancements in artificial intelligence, automation and headline-grabbing layoffs, does a degree in information science and data analytics still hold its value?

According to SJSU faculty, industry data, and current students: Absolutely.

The BS in Information Science and Data Analytics (ISDA) at SJSU - offered in a two-year online format or four-year hybrid format - focuses on developing frameworks rather than memorizing formulas. These information theories, ethical reasoning and decision-making skills that underpin data analytics, cybersecurity and UX/UI design are in demand at companies like Amazon, Adobe, Cisco, Google and Tesla.

"When AI tools change the way data is processed, our graduates are equipped to evaluate, direct and govern those tools rather than be displaced by them," said Kelly Rausch, program coordinator of the undergraduate ISDA programs. "That distinction matters enormously in a market where critical thinking and human judgment are increasingly the differentiators."

The market opportunity is also broader than most students realize. "Silicon Valley remains the country's largest tech hub, but high-demand markets for ISDA skills now span across the nation," added Rausch. "For students in our BS ISDA program, that national reach is built into the degree from day one."

The structural demand for professionals who can manage, interpret, secure, and humanize data is still strong. Between 2024 and 2034, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that data scientist roles will grow by 34% and information security analysts roles will grow by 29% - all far exceeding the national average. The Data Science Institute also highlights that demand for skilled data professionals is expected to outpace supply by 50% in the U.S. by 2026.

The opportunities with an ISDA degree are abundant, and SJSU helps students seize them.

Some students in the BS ISDA program appreciate how the program prepares them for a career arc instead of a single career path. Yajaira De Haro, '26 Information Science and Data Analytics, discovered that firsthand after attending a data science conference.

"I spoke with people who completed their degrees in information science and were able to pivot into fields like software engineering, so I felt that this major would give me the most career flexibility," she said.

Meanwhile, other students enjoy how the program is able to deepen their understanding in a particular field of study that can be applied in a wide range of careers.

"The online ISDA program is a perfect match for my career goals." said Jade Steele, '26 Information Science and Data Analytics . "I was hoping to find a major that is not only about computer science and not too math-heavy, but would still prepare me for a web career, which this major has also been good for."

"When I decided to return to school to finish my degree, I wanted to pursue a major that was more aligned with that interest in learning programming languages," added Vennis Tinaco, '26 Information Science and Data Analytics. "Through the SJSU Online ISDA program, I have been able to learn how to analyze problems through the perspective of a data scientist by taking data and translating it into something valuable for stakeholders."

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