The University of Guam held a press conference on May 9 to announce the launch of two new graduate degree programs: a Master of Science in Data Science and a Master of Library and Information Science. From left to right: Dr. Leslie Aquino, Associate Professor of Mathematics, Dr. Grazyna Badowski, Associate Professor of Mathematics, Dr. Rachael Leon Guerrero, Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Dr. Sharleen Santos-Bamba, Senior Vice President and Provost, Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez, President, Dr. Monique Storie, Dean of University Libraries, Dr. Alica Aguon, Dean of the School of Education, and Dr. Geraldine James, Assistant Professor of Advanced Education & Research Services. (Photo courtesy of University of Guam )
During its regular meeting on April 25, he University of Guam Board of Regents approved two new graduate degree programs to launch in the Fanuchånan (Fall) 2024 semester — a Master of Science in Data Science and a Master of Library and Information Science.
The UOG School of Education and University Libraries have partnered to offer the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) aimed at developing a professional workforce for the region’s school, public, and academic libraries and specialized collections. The program will also offer a graduate certificate in School Librarianship.
“Across the region there is a need to train new library and information resource professionals,” said Dr. Monique Storie, Dean of University Libraries.
There are 182 libraries and other collection institutions across Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of Palau, and the Federated States of Micronesia. However, according to a study from UOG, there are less than 30 library professionals among them with advanced degrees.
Demand for Data Science
In response to the rising demand for data scientists across the U.S. — an increase of 35% over the next eight years is projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — the UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences aims to equip graduates with a strong foundation in statistical modeling, machine learning, management, and analysis of large data sets.
Data scientists work in a multitude of fields from finance to marketing to science and across disciplines and use their analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data and present them to stakeholders.
“Our graduates will be adept at transforming data into actionable insights, a skill that’s increasingly crucial among all industries,” shared Dr. Rachael Leon Guerrero, Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences.
Graduate students in the data science program will have the opportunity to receive support through grant-funded projects and contribute to research initiatives at UOG, and gaining experience and skills needed to work in both academic and industry settings.
The University also plans to launch a one-year graduate certificate in Data Science soon.
Addressing Workforce Needs
These programs underscore UOG’s commitment to workforce development in the region, following the launches of the Doctor of Education in Instruction and Academic Leadership, the Master of Accountancy, and certificates in Cybersecurity and Island Sustainability.
“These new programs are indicative of how the University partners with our communities to train up the professional workforce of tomorrow,” stated Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez, UOG President.
For more information about the Master of Library and Information Science, Master of Science in Data Science, and other graduate degree programs, contact the UOG Graduate Studies Office at graduatestudies@triton.uog.edu.
