Nov 21, 2024  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

Data Science, BS


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The Data Science program prepares students for professional careers and graduate study by mastering mathematics, statistics, computer science, and core data science concepts such as machine learning, deep learning, and data mining as guided by the 2021 ACM Computing Competencies for Undergraduate Data Science Curricula. The program provides the key preparation for a career as a data scientist, data analyst, data engineer, business analyst, marketing analyst, data architect, data and analytic manager, business intelligence analyst, data mining analyst, or machine learning engineer.

Data Scientists are typically involved with designing data modeling processes and creating algorithms and predictive models to extract the information needed by an organization to solve complex problems. Data analysts examine large datasets to identify trends, develop charts, and create visual presentations to help businesses make more strategic decisions. There are several titles for data analysts, including but not limited to database analyst, business analyst, and market research.

Program Educational Objectives: 

Five years after completing the Data Science program, students will: 

1.     Apply computing, mathematical, and statistical skills, practical tools, and techniques in data science to solve real-world problems to facilitate successful careers in data science and related fields.  

2.     Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and professionally, individually and in team environments, with colleagues and clients of varying backgrounds.  

3.     Demonstrate an ability to improve and expand career skills through graduate studies, continuing self-directed learning, and professional development. 

Student Outcome 

Graduates of the program will have the ability to:

  1. Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
  3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
  4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
  5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
  6. Apply theory, techniques, and tools throughout the data analysis lifecycle and employ the resulting knowledge to satisfy stakeholders’ needs. 

Data Science Major Requirements


General Education and Institutional Requirements (24 credits)


Institutional Requirements (6 semester hours)


Freshman Seminar (3 semester hours)


  • 3 Credits
  • Freshman Seminar (FRSE 101) is required for all entering freshmen and for all transfer students with fewer than 12 credits.

Health and Wellness (3 semester hours)


Choose one of the General Education courses designated for this category.

General Education Requirements (18 credits)


English Composition (6 semester hours)


Arts and Humanities (6 semester hours)


Choose from designated General Education courses in art, literature, modern languages, music, philosophy, and theater. (The Arts and Humanities Elective must be in a discipline other than COMM).

Social Science (6 semester hours)


Choose from designated General Education courses in anthropology, economics, geography, political science, psychology, social work, sociology, or interdisciplinary social science. (The Social Sciences Elective must be in a discipline other than HIST.) 

Note:


Science (7-8 semester hours), Mathematics (3 semester hours), and Technology (3 semester hours) General Education Requirements are satisfied by taking the required courses.

Free General Education Electives (9 semester hours)


Free General Education Electives are usually satisfied by courses in Technology, courses in Mathematics, and courses in Science. Additional Free General Education Electives, if needed, are chosen, with Department advisement, from designated General Education courses in any category.

General Electives


The remaining credits needed to make the total at least 120 should be chosen by the student in consultation with a Department advisor.

Sample Program


This is a sample only. Most students will not follow the sample exactly as shown. It is very important that students consult regularly with their departmental advisor, to determine their best program.

Freshman Year


Sophomore Year


Second Semester (16 semester hours)


Junior Year


Senior Year


First Semester (15 semester hours)


Second Semester (15 semester hours)


  • ____ ___Free Elective 3 Credits 
  • 3 Credits
  • ____ ___Social Science/Behavioral Elective 3 Credits
  • ____ ___Data Science Elective 3 Credits
  • ____ ___Data Science Elective 3 Credits 

Note:


The Department reserves the right to specify suitable General Education courses, in keeping with COMAR, for its majors.

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