Headlines shout messages that artificial intelligence will take jobs left and right. Entry-level computer programming positions appear to be high on the AI hit list. Yet workforce demand remains for workers who can make sense of the ever-increasing quantities of data that companies are managing.
That’s where Dr. Diane Wolff, Professor of Computer Science/Information Technology at Virginia Western Community College, sees an opportunity.
“Organizations across industries are collecting exponentially more data, and they need professionals who can transform that data into decisions — not just store or manage it,” Wolff said. “This trend drives demand for data analytics skills in addition to technical programming skills, rather than instead of them. The complementarity of analytics plus programming increases employability.”
Virginia Western has revolutionized a two-year programming degree into the Associate of Applied Science in IST: Data Analytics & Programming Solutions degree. This unique pathway was built in tandem with Radford University to create a true “two-plus-two” program, enabling students to receive Radford’s Bachelor of Science in Information Science and Systems in four total years. Additionally, Radford’s program has an opportunity to continue with a one-year option for a Master of Business Administration, which is offered online.
“By integrating analytics with programming, the curriculum prepares students to work alongside AI tools, not be displaced by them,” Wolff said. “This change modernizes the program, aligns it with current workforce needs, and improves graduate employment outcomes — without abandoning core programming fundamentals.”
Wolff assembled a team to rethink the program in concert with Dr. Art Carter, Accounting, Finance, and Information Systems department chair at Radford University. While AAS degrees are designed for students to directly enter the workforce, this program also has a pathway built in for direct transfer to a cutting-edge degree at Radford University. The new specialization includes general education requirements such as precalculus and statistics, which are critical for the data science field.
Radford University’s Information Science and Systems program combines computer science and business classes to create a hybrid of business and technology. This STEM program is designed with a technical core including database, networks, programming and cybersecurity and a business core including accounting, management, economics, finance and marketing, as well as courses specializing in cybersecurity management and decision analytics.
“We are excited about this partnership,” said Carter. “Over the years of working with Virginia Western, the students coming to Radford have been well prepared and very successful in their studies here. Our Information Science and Systems program concentrates studies in Decision Analytics and Cybersecurity Management, and the Virginia Western program will be a great preparation to finish this program with two additional years of studies.”
The demand for data analytics is growing rapidly, Wolff said, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting much faster than average growth for these roles. Data scientists are expected to see employment rise 34% between 2024-2034, with around 23,400 openings annually.
“I’m grateful for both the continuation of our partnership with Radford University and this proactive approach to the need for evolving curricula,” said Amy White, Dean of STEM and Workforce Solutions. “I am proud of the faculty from both institutions who have worked to meet the needs of students in this rapidly changing industry.”
Applications and admissions of transfer students are increasing, due in part to programs such as Tartan Transfer and the Radford Tuition Promise that ease the transition to a four-year program. Transfer student applications and admissions for the Fall 2026 semester have increased approximately five percent over Fall 2025. Virginia Western is one of nine Tartan Transfer partner institutions, and enrollment through that program continues to grow.
“This partnership reflects what higher education should look like at its best: institutions working together to create clear, affordable pathways to opportunity,” said Donna McCloskey, dean of the Artis College of Business and Economics. “Through Tartan Transfer and agreements like this one, students can start close to home, build valuable skills and credentials, and continue seamlessly toward a bachelor’s degree and a rewarding career.”
During students’ time at Virginia Western, opportunities will exist to obtain industry certifications including the Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) in Java, the Information Technology Specialist (ITS) in Database Fundamentals, the CompTIA AI Essentials, the CompTIA Security+, CAPM Project Management, and the CompTIA Linux+ certifications.
“The new AAS program aims to teach programming with purpose, powered by data,” Wolff said. “It’s not about learning to code for coding’s sake — it’s about using data and technology to solve real problems.”
