Data Science as a Field

Dr. Jane Wall is the Faculty Director of the Data Science Graduate Program at the University of Colorado Boulder, a position she has held since 2021. With a unique blend of business acumen and technical expertise, she brings a diverse background to her role. Dr. Wall began her academic journey with undergraduate degrees in Classical Languages and Political Science, followed by two master’s degrees in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics from the University of Georgia. Her professional experience includes significant roles at IBM, where she worked as a software engineer and manager, as well as leadership positions in various software development companies.Dr. Wall returned to academia to earn her Ph.D. in Computational and Applied Mathematics from Rice University, focusing on computational neuroscience. She has developed and taught numerous data science courses, including "Statistical Programming in R" and "Data Science Practicum." At CU Boulder, she oversees both residential and online modes of the Data Science program, which includes innovative courses like "Algebra and Differential Calculus for Data Science" and "Introduction to R Programming and Tidyverse." Dr. Wall's commitment to advancing data science education is evident through her efforts to create robust curricula that prepare students for successful careers in this rapidly evolving field.