University Education and Professional Demand in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in Ambato

Abstract

The study analyzed the academic and professional relevance of establishing a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in a face-to-face modality in the central region of Ecuador, considering the relationship between higher education and professional demand. A descriptive and exploratory quantitative design was applied, including surveys of secondary students and interviews with employers, complemented by the Analytic Hierarchy Process to prioritize interest and demand criteria. Results revealed strong student interest driven by career opportunities and technological innovation, alongside a significant market demand for professionals skilled in data analysis, programming, project management, and ethical information handling. Gaps in prior technological knowledge were identified, indicating the need to strengthen digital competencies in early educational stages. The AHP method enabled the prioritization of key factors for program implementation, confirming that business demand held the highest relative weight, followed by student interest, reflecting the alignment between academic offerings and labor market needs. The study concluded that the program contributed to consolidating specialized training, strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem, and reducing the gap between academic supply and professional demand, providing a replicable model for planning educational programs in emerging fields.