Big data and artificial intelligence have opened up new possibilities for professionals in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
According to the dean of the faculty, Mario Fernández, in an article published in El Observador on December 18, 2018, every interaction people have with technology—whether through social media, internet searches, or even a bank transaction—generates data that is recorded.
In that article, Mr. Fernández added that the challenge facing IT professionals is to access these large volumes of data and convert them into useful information for companies, always within an ethical framework.
At the forefront
Since 2017, with the launch of the Diploma in Big Data Analytics, ORT’s School of Engineering has firmly established itself in this field. And in 2019, it is doubling down on its commitment with changes to the curricula for the Engineering and Bachelor’s in Systems degree programs, as well as the launch, in the second semester, of a Master’s in Big Data and a Diploma in Artificial Intelligence.
According to the academic coordinators of the Engineering and Systems Science programs, Dr. Nora Szasz and Dr. Helena Garbarino, respectively, “a comprehensive review of the course content was conducted across all departments, ranging from Basic Sciences, Programming, Software Engineering, Databases, Information Systems, and Management.”
“We strive to keep pace with technological advancements and the needs of the job market; therefore, we have updated our programming languages and added courses in Big Data, Machine Learning, Global Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing, among others.”
"All of this helps us train professionals who are ready for the global market, since there are no borders when it comes to software development today," the coordinators explain.
Permanent validity
According to Szasz, “In the Systems Engineering program, we aim to train professionals capable of applying current methodologies and technologies to software development, with an emphasis on the creation of innovative products and services.”
The key lies in incorporating new technologies and methodologies early on, striking a good balance between theoretical knowledge and its practical application. In addition, integrative workshops were added with the aim of fostering a culture of interdisciplinary work within a project-oriented framework. According to Szasz, “this approach is taken because, in today’s technological solutions, there are no boundaries between disciplines.”
The new curricula include courses that explore key topics in greater depth, such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and distributed systems.
Meanwhile, the Bachelor's Degree in Systems also emphasizes specific areas that define its focus, such as process optimization, digital product and service management, and ICT management.
Management Training
“In this program, we aim to train information technology managers, so students must develop technical skills but also need to speak and understand the language of business; in other words, they must have knowledge of strategy, finance, and digital marketing,” explains Garbarino.
Another advantage of the new curricula is their flexibility, as students can choose from a variety of courses within specific subject areas, allowing them to focus on topics that interest them.
Now, throughout their studies, students can choose from a variety of courses to focus on the areas that interest them most, and then earn a certificate of specialization in fields that are in high demand and have a significant impact on the industry.
The areas of specialization are:
- Big data
- Software Product Engineering
- Artificial intelligence
- Software Management
- Cybersecurity
- Automation and the Internet of Things (IoT)
- Video game development
- Management and Business
- Theoretical Computing
“We’re adding to the mix of both degree programs other skills that are important for 21st-century professionals—so-called soft skills—which include communication, teamwork, and negotiation, among others,” notes Szasz.
"We are also building on the areas the school has already been focusing on, such as innovation and entrepreneurship, which enable students to become skilled professionals and contribute to the market with creative ideas and solutions," he adds.