- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects data scientists will see a 34.6% employment growth between 2025 and 2035, adding 95,400 new jobs.
- Universities in Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and the U.S. are launching new data science degrees and training programs to meet rising industry demand.
- A groundbreaking thesis at Mexico's BUAP used reinforcement learning and deep learning to model epidemic control strategies, showcasing real-world AI applications.
The data science field is experiencing a perfect storm of growing demand and expanding educational opportunities. Recent projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, reported by FOX Business, show that data scientists will see a 34.6% employment increase between 2025 and 2035, creating roughly 95,400 new positions across the country. This makes it the third fastest-growing occupation in the United States, trailing only nurse practitioners and solar photovoltaic installers, while outpacing wind turbine technicians and computer research scientists.
Meanwhile, academic institutions across the Americas are responding to this demand with new programs and specialized training. From Mexico’s first-ever data science master’s graduate to Colombia’s new national academic network, and Argentina’s industry-focused training initiative, the educational ecosystem is rapidly evolving. Even the U.S. is seeing universities like the University of Buenos Aires launching short-track degrees aimed at filling the skills gap.
The Numbers Behind the Boom
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects total employment will rise from 170.3 million to 176.2 million jobs during the 2025-2035 period—an increase of 5.9 million positions, representing a 3.5% growth rate. While that’s slower than the 10.9% growth seen between 2015 and 2025, the data science occupation stands out for its remarkable momentum. The ranking of the 10 fastest-growing occupations is dominated by healthcare roles, but tech and energy positions also feature prominently.
The third-place projection for data scientists at 34.6% growth translates to 95,400 new jobs, a significant number compared to the 3,500 new wind turbine technician positions or the 8,400 new computer research scientist roles. This robust growth reflects the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making and modeling across industries, from finance to healthcare to manufacturing.
First Graduate at BUAP Marks a Milestone
In a notable development for Latin American data science education, José de Jesús Hernández Higuera has become the first graduate of the Master’s in Data Science Research at the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP). His thesis, titled “Integración del aprendizaje automático para la búsqueda de estrategias de control epidemiológico,” was supervised by Dr. Jorge Velázquez Castro and successfully defended to earn the degree.
The research combined two core branches of machine learning: Reinforcement Learning and Deep Learning. The reinforcement learning component simulated an epidemiological environment based on the SIR mathematical model (Susceptible, Infected, Recovered), allowing the team to identify optimal disease containment strategies. The deep learning element improved algorithm efficiency through artificial neural networks, while the Q-learning algorithm—commonly used in video game AI—helped model dynamic behaviors.
New Academic Programs Across the Region
Universities throughout Latin America are expanding their data science offerings. The University of Buenos Aires (UBA) has launched a new Technical Degree in Data Management and Analysis for Organizations, a 13-subject, 2.5-year program offered free through the Faculty of Economic Sciences. The curriculum covers Python programming and RStudio, applied statistics, data visualization, machine learning models, and AI applications, with classes delivered in a hybrid format—two days in-person and two days online.
In Colombia, the Catholic University of Colombia participated in the first meeting of data science and AI academic programs, convened by the Colombian Association of Engineering Faculties (ACOFI). The gathering led to the creation of the Colombian Network of Academic Programs in Data Science, AI, and Related Fields, aimed at sharing infrastructure and developing collaborative research projects. The network also discussed quantum computing preparation and digital sovereignty strategies.
Industry-Driven Training Initiatives
Argentina is taking a practical approach through the DATA UP program, a joint initiative between the Federal Council of Engineering Deans (Confedi) and the YPF Foundation. This program provides funding for infrastructure and equipment, up to 40 hours of technical assistance, and a collaborative platform for sharing datasets and teaching practices. Participating institutions must submit projects that incorporate at least three of four components: data capture or generation, data curation and structuring, availability and access, or pedagogical development and curriculum integration.
The program targets key areas like exploration, production process optimization, and predictive maintenance in the hydrocarbon upstream industry, aiming to bridge the gap between academic training and real-world industry demands. As Gustavo Schiappacasse, executive director of the YPF Foundation, noted, this initiative incorporates data science tools into energy industry applications while strengthening university-industry connections.
The Future of Data Science Education
The convergence of strong job growth projections with expanding educational opportunities points to a bright future for data science. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ forecast aligns with global trends emphasizing the importance of analytical skills in solving complex problems. From epidemic control simulations at BUAP to the new technical degree at UBA and the collaborative networks being built in Colombia and Argentina, the field is developing a robust pipeline of talent.
As industries across healthcare, energy, finance, and technology increasingly rely on data-driven insights, the demand for skilled data scientists shows no signs of slowing. The educational responses—ranging from short technical degrees to advanced research master’s programs—demonstrate that institutions are listening to market needs and adapting accordingly. With 95,400 new U.S. jobs projected and similar growth likely in other regions, data science remains one of the most promising career paths for the next decade. The combination of strong employment prospects and expanding educational access ensures that the field will continue to attract talented professionals ready to turn raw information into actionable knowledge.
