One of the most challenging aspects of discussing the field of information technology is how broad it is and how many different facets it encompasses. That’s why, in this blog series, we’re taking a closer look at each of the specializations offered through our Master of Science in Information Technology degree program — what they are and what the future of those career paths looks like.

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Big Data.

It’s the buzzword that pops up if you spend even a few minutes searching around the world of the Internet. People are generating massive amounts of data on a daily basis, just by how we move around the world, utilize the Internet, and interact with our computers and phones. And all of that data is useful to all different kinds of organizations, for better or for worse. Our personal data can, for example, help companies discover us, target us with ads that are uniquely designed to draw us in, and convert us into customers. Data drives social media and marketing, contributes to the rise and fall of companies, and even wins elections.

But the challenge is not getting data. It’s how you take it from randomized information, process it, analyze it, and break it down into usable components. It’s a big job, one made all the more difficult by the pressing need for qualified data analysts and specialists, especially given that the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts this field to grow by 27% over the next decade.

So what are the trends behind the field of data analytics and data science? Where is the future taking this industry, and what will those looking to take the lead in this field need to know about?

• The sheer amount of data is increasing exponentially. The International Data Corporation predicts the global datasphere will reach 175 zettabytes in the next five years.
• The Internet of Things (Iot) will grow as a factor and influence in data analytics, just as it will in cybersecurity and software engineering.
• Machine learning and artificial intelligence will gain traction, providing both opportunities for deeper data analysis and the need for minimizing potential bias.
• Privacy will continue to be a predominant issue as cyberattacks put data at risk and end users struggle with how much of their identity should be available for consumption.
• Big data will give way to fast data and actionable data as stream processing makes it easier than ever for organizations to not only analyze the information they have, but also turn it into an action item.
• Chief data officers will become a more common position among the c-suite, and senior data scientists and team leads will continue to be in high demand.

Information has always been one of the most valuable commodities in human society, but the data analytics field has made it arguably the most powerful force in everything from commerce to politics. Those looking to gain their master’s in data analytics will have the advantage of an education that can help them look at both the big picture and the small details and use that to chart a course that will give the organizations they’re leading an edge over the competition.

Learn more about the MSIT — Data Analytics degree from Salem University here.