Students in this course bring a solid foundation in programming, databases, data structures, distributed file systems, and distributed data processing, and are building applied skills in cloud computing and big data analysis. They can support company projects by designing and implementing data pipelines, processing and analyzing large datasets, and creating dashboards or reports that generate actionable insights. Working in teams, students apply cloud based tools and frameworks to develop practical, innovative solutions to real-world data challenges

Our graduate learners bring strong skills in algorithm design, data structures, and computational problem-solving. They are capable of analyzing complex challenges, developing efficient solutions, and applying modern approaches—including AI and big data techniques—to real-world problems. Companies can expect motivated learners who can deliver computational thinking-oriented insights, prototypes, and optimized solutions to support decision-making and innovation.

The project aims to enhance the efficiency of the service application process by transitioning from a manual to a digital system. Currently, the process involves cumbersome paperwork and manual data entry, leading to delays, inconsistencies and potential errors negatively impacting community members seeking services. The goal is to create a seamless digital workflow that automates data collection and integrates it directly into the company's Client Management System (CMS). This will not only reduce processing time but also improve data accuracy and accessibility. The project will involve analyzing the current process, designing a digital form for data collection, and developing a method to automatically input this data into the CMS. By digitizing the application process, the company can improve service delivery and operational efficiency.

Finding the Helpers: Developing Their Key Career Skills is a course-based internship experience that provides undergraduate social science students opportunities to develop and refine career skills working on real-world projects. Course projects may vary due to the wide variety of people who “help”: Legal, medical, educational, governmental, community organizations, non-profits, and others, but learners have the opportunity to engage in consulting projects with industry partners, allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge in a practical setting. Learners will explore a wide range of "helping" careers as a foundation for the types of organizations that help and for an overview of skills necessary for helping-type projects. Student research and analysis of industry partner challenges prepare them to provide innovative, interdisciplinary solutions for issues addressed by “Helpers.” Learners work in small virtual teams to tackle real-world challenges of industry partners while honing their (1) communication skills, (2) critical and innovative thinking skills, (3) teamwork skills, (4) professionalism, and (5) leadership skills. By collaborating with company project managers, learners will gain insights into industry practices and deliver tangible results within a defined timeframe.