Best Bachelor’s Data Science Programs for 2023

The data science skill set is like a Swiss Army knife. It has a tool for just about everything: marketing, biomedical research, logistics, the list goes on and on.

Unlike the world-famous multi-tool, though, data science skills are an investment of time, money, and energy. But with the top 10% of data scientists earning more than $167,000 annually, you could see a pretty healthy return on investment. All you have to do is find the right degree program.

There are virtually endless directions to take a data science career, so enrolling in a bachelor’s program can help you discern your calling while gaining some hands-on experience. Maybe you’ll find the perfect internship through a job fair or discover your love for research working with faculty on a years-long project.

No matter where you’re going or where you’re starting from, this list of the best bachelor’s Data Science programs can help you get there.

What Makes These Data Science Programs So Stellar?

These programs are accredited by the nation’s leading regional agencies like the Higher Learning Commission, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. While each agency has its own standards, they help schools clarify their missions, enhance student resources, and build data science curriculums that elevate students in and out of the classroom. But what does that actually mean?

The bachelor’s data science programs on this list:

• Value interdisciplinary learning. Data science is a flexible field made up of computer science, statistics, and mathematical concepts. Many of the programs on this list represent years of interdepartmental collaboration and meticulous curriculum crafting.
• Collaborate with research institutions and industry leaders. Some of the programs on this list offer internships, research opportunities, and more through partnerships with government research organizations and well-known data industry leaders.
• Are committed to their students’ and faculty’s research endeavors. Teaching is only one way data science instructors live out their passion for the field. Some conduct research projects in focused fields like natural language processing, economic forecasting, and astronomy. While students may have the chance to work on these exciting projects, many schools offer grants that let students craft their own even at the undergraduate level.
• Offer a variety of learning experiences. Core data science skills like data mining and visualization can be taught in the classroom, but many of the schools on this list offer study abroad programs, capstone research experiences, and other hands-on opportunities so students can codify their knowledge with the chance to use it to solve real-world data problems.
• Cater to all kinds of students. Some students who pursue data science degrees have strong STEM backgrounds. Others come from different disciplines and need a more introductory education. The programs on this list make up a well-rounded pool of choices.

On top of that outstanding list of traits, the choices on this list represent:

• Public
• Private
• On-campus
• Online data science programs

So whether you want to pursue a degree while getting a taste of campus life or make time for classes in the middle of an already busy schedule, there might just be a school here that’s perfect for you.

The Best Bachelor’s Data Science Programs – Schools by State

Select your preferred geography and jump to the Bachelor’s Data Science Programs in your state.

ARIZONA (PUBLIC)

Arizona State University Campus Immersion (Public)

SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICAL AND STATISTICAL SCIENCES
Tempe, AZ

Data Science BS (Online)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $14,934 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $952)

• 100% online and taught by the same faculty with the same content as ASU’s on-campus program.
• Features five areas of emphasis: bioscience, behavioral science, business analytics, spatial science, and social science.
• Made up of about 40 classes spanning 120 credit hours.

ASU’s bachelor’s data science program may be a great fit for undergrads who want a very technical, mathematical understanding of the field.

While the entry-level courses cover topics like calculus and programming basics, later classes dive deep into the nuances of Python and R, machine learning, and how to analyze different types of data. However, with five emphasis areas to choose from, students can tailor their education to fit their professional and educational goals.

Even though many of ASU Online’s courses are asynchronous meaning students can complete them at a flexible pace, the program also gives students access to over 200 tools they can use to collaborate with peers, engage with faculty, and work on hands-on digital lab projects.

ARIZONA (PRIVATE)

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott (Private)

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Prescott, AZ

Bachelor of Science in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $37,501 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,695)

• Has been ranked as the number one regional college in the west by US News and World Report.
• Features data science discipline tracks like computer science, business, cyber security, intelligence, math, psychology, economics, and physics.
• As an aerospace education institution, Embry-Riddle takes a STEM-focused approach to general education — great for students hoping to enter science and research-based careers.

Thanks to the Embry-Riddle’s uniquely technical general education requirements (including courses on technical report writing and analytical geometry), the school’s data science students can jump right into learning about advanced topics like computer science, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. However, with upper-level electives like Nonverbal Communication and the Evolution of Scientific Thought, the program also prepares students to become powerful collaborators in the field of their choosing.

Every year, the school devotes about $100,000 into its Undergraduate Research Insitute that enables students to develop their own projects, work with faculty, present their research at conferences, and even travel abroad.

CALIFORNIA (PRIVATE)

Point Loma Nazarene University (Private)

DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICAL, INFORMATION, AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
San Diego, CA

Data Science, BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $34,851 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,345)

• Campus is located on a 90-acre plot overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
• PLNU students often get semester-long internships with organizations like the FBI, CIA, and a long list of cybersecurity and data management firms.
• For future actuaries, the curriculum is designed to help them meet requirements designated by the Society of Actuaries.

At this Christian liberal arts university, data science education is as much about personal development as academic instruction. Early in their careers, PLNU students take classes on calculus, computer science, and C++ programming. After that, the focus shifts to more advanced topics like machine learning and data visualization.

To give students the opportunity to hone their skills, PLNU ‘s curriculum also includes internships, collaborative faculty research initiatives, and projects with local nonprofit organizations. However, students with clear career goals in mind can choose from either a biology or finance concentration — both designed to teach data science skills in real-world, hands-on contexts.

COLORADO (PUBLIC)

Colorado State University- Fort Collins (Public)

COLLEGE OF NATURAL SCIENCES
Fort Collins, CO

Major in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,320 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $693.92)

• With its focus on research, CSU is one of six schools in the nation to be designated as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities.
• Features five areas of emphasis in data science: computer science, economics, mathematics, neuroscience, and statistics.
• Home to many unique scholarship and fellowship opportunities like the Astronaut Scholarship program and the Advancing Education Scholarship.

Though CSU’s data science program includes classes about programming, data wrangling, and statistics, its five degree tracks add more in-depth topics to the curriculum. For instance, the computer science track is perfect for students with a passion for AI. In the neuroscience track, students learn about cellular neurobiology and the innovative techniques used to understand it.

Through the Amplify program, on-campus students live in dorms with their fellow STEM students, giving them the opportunity to host science-themed events, form study groups, and enrich their understanding of data science with a multi-disciplinary mindset.

For students who want to take part in CSU’s rich research tradition, the Office for Undergraduate Research and Artistry connects them with faculty and outside organizations studying everything from pathology to soil to finance.

CONNNECTICUT (PUBLIC)

Southern Connecticut State University (Public)

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
New Haven, CT

BS in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,493 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $534.50)

• Program requires a capstone project which gives students the opportunity to design a data science project and present their research.
• SCSU’s Division of Research and Innovation includes organizations centered around nanotechnology, marine studies, the ethics of emerging technologies, and other fields that allow data science students to apply their knowledge.
• Also offers a data science graduate certificate for working professionals.

SCSU’s data science faculty pride themselves on allowing students to jump right into the foundations of the field in the first semester. So even if students need to brush up on their calculus, they can still jump quickly into more exciting and applicable topics like data mining and visualization.

But in addition to this well-rounded core curriculum, the 120-credit-hour program leaves room for electives focused on more career-oriented topics like bioinformatics and deep learning.

Through this interdisciplinary approach to data science, SCSU aims to prepare students for careers in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, business management, and more.

FLORIDA (PUBLIC)

Florida Polytechnic University (Public)

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM
Lakeland, FL

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,376 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $164.66)

• The polytechnic approach combines a tech skill-based curriculum with experiential learning.
• Features four concentrations: advanced topics (neural networks, built-in self tests, wafer-scale tech), Big Data analytics, intelligent mobility and autonomous systems, and quantitative economics.
• The school also hosts a Data Science Master’s program.

Florida Polytechnic may be a great fit for STEM students looking for an in-depth data science education.

As early as their first year, new students get introduced to technical writing, computer engineering, and laboratory work. After that, undergrads quickly dive into advanced topics such as machine learning and time series analysis. However, with four concentration areas to choose from, students can explore domain-specific topics like reverse logistics, data warehousing, and strategic business decision-making.

As a STEM-centric university, Florida Polytechnic offers a variety of hands-on learning experiences with the many tools today’s data scientists use most. With a rich network of labs, research centers, and innovation-minded faculty, the school allows students a unique chance to develop new data analysis tools and methods while pursuing their own research interests.

ILLINOIS (PRIVATE)

DePaul University (Private)

JARVIS COLLEGE OF COMPUTING AND DIGITAL MEDIA
Chicago, IL

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,872 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $681)

DePaul’s data science curriculum includes courses covering programming, machine learning, and data analysis and the program extends far beyond the confines of the classroom.

• In addition to a combined degree option that allows data science students to obtain both a BS and MS in 5 years with significant cost savings, certificates and minors in allied fields – such as Geographic Information Systems – are available.
• The DePaul Center for Data Science partners students and faculty with industry and nonprofits to conduct joint analytics projects, providing real-world experience in the field.
• Through the Data Science Group, undergrads, grad students, faculty, and alumni meet to share interests, network, and find employment and internship opportunities.

Enrolling in the Jarvis School of Computing and Digital Media (CDM) gives students access to dozens of labs, including those equipped with advanced data analysis tools and specialized research labs/centers. Affiliated labs include the Medical Informatics Lab, the Laboratory for Interactive Human-Computer Analytics, and the DICE (Data, Infrastructure, Computation, and Environments) Lab, to name just a few. Students are able to work on interdisciplinary research alongside peers and faculty through opportunities like the Undergraduate Research Assistantship Program, or in the new Jarvis Center for Student Innovation and Collaboration. CDM students have presented their research at the BIG EAST Undergraduate Research Symposium since its inception.

Through industry partnerships, presentations from visiting professionals, and a capstone course that focuses on applying their education to create solutions to real-world problems, data science students graduate with a portfolio of experience and a readiness for their career.

INIDIANA (PRIVATE)

Earlham College (Private)

Richmond, IN

BA in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $25,360 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,570)

• 92% of Earlham students either work, continue their education, or explore grad schools within six months of graduation.
• Through the Epic Advantage system, all students have a chance to participate in collaborative research projects with faculty, internships, and/or study abroad programs.
• Also offers a data science minor.

As a small liberal arts college of under 1,000 undergrads, Earlham College offers a personalized approach to data science education.

While the core curriculum helps students understand the math behind data science, upper-level classes allow them to apply those principles to AI, software engineering, bioinformatics, and other domains that rely on data analysis.

For another layer of career and graduate studies readiness, data science students can add an Applied Minor to their degree. This might include sustainability, conservation, and other fields where innovators use vast amounts of data to understand and improve the world.

To help students discern their goals and gain real-world experience, the school hosts many funded internship programs, conference traveling awards, and international study opportunities.

Rose Hulman Institute of Technology (Private)

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Terre Haute, IN

Second Major in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $39,294 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,487)

• The data science second major can be added to any type of degree, but overlaps well with the math, computer science, and software engineering programs.
• Rose Hulman’s STEM education tradition stretches back to 1874.
• While the 1,300-acre campus is roomy enough, the 10:1 student/faculty ratio keeps classroom time personal.

Though Rose Hulman’s data science program is only offered as a second degree option and not a standalone degree, the 72-hour curriculum is comprehensive and rigorous.

In core classes, students learn about algorithms and even get an introduction to machine learning and database system management. However, the more technical advanced classes focus on more specific aspects of the field like data mining, regression analysis, and artificial intelligence. But in addition to that, students have a wide variety of electives to choose from. They might dive into Hadoop, explore image recognition, or become experts in the intersection of data, biology, and the economy. This flexible yet dynamic structure is great for STEM students who want to enhance their domain-specific knowledge with a deep understanding of data science.

INDIANA (PUBLIC)

Purdue University Fort Wayne (Public)

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES, DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES
Fort Wayne, IN

Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Applied Statistics (BSDSAS) (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,820 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $708.83)

• Through the school’s multiple research departments and labs, students can work with faculty on data projects that involve organizations all across the state.
• The University Research and Innovation initiative helps undergrads fund their own research projects and present them at academic conferences.
• Living Learning Communities connect students with peers in related disciplines and professionals in their future fields.

Purdue’s highly structured data science curriculum makes data science an accessible field for all types of students.

The program starts off by teaching students the fundamentals of calculus and algebra, programming, and statistics. With that background, students can take more advanced courses in subjects like machine learning and data visualization.

However, Purdue keeps data science interdisciplinary by requiring students to take courses in other STEM-related areas like biology, chemistry, geography, and planetary science. So along with programming skills and statistical know-how, Purdue data science students can graduate with an understanding of how their knowledge can be used in an endless amount of academic and professional domains.

IOWA (PUBLIC)

University of Iowa (Public)

COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, DEPARTMENT OF STATISTICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE
Iowa City, IA

Bachelor of Science in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $17,599 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $862.75)

• Also offers a Master of Science in Data Science.
• UI’s robust undergraduate research department pairs students with faculty with similar research interests. Some of these projects offer compensation and grant funding.
• With only 54 data science students in 2022, UI offers a personal approach to STEM education.

Housed in the school’s actuarial science department, UI’s data science BS program helps students take a statistical approach to data science. But after building a mathematical foundation, students can take advanced courses in machine learning, cloud computing, and experimental design.

Like other data science programs, UI requires students to complete a capstone project, but in this research-oriented program, this experience includes both a practicum or internship and a creative group project. In the past, students have completed data projects about March Madness brackets, breast cancer, and natural disasters — all student-driven topics that hone technical and collaborative skills in a real-world context.

MARYLAND (PUBLIC)

Salisbury University (Public)

DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES
Salisbury, MD

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,885 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $258)

• Home to six exciting tracks: astrostatistics, bioinformatics, chemometrics, computational data science, geoanalytics, and mathematical data science.
• Also offers a data science minor.
• The Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity helps students find the funding and support needed to travel, design experiments, and connect with professionals in their field.

SU’s data science bachelor’s program is great for students who want to combine data analysis with more focused fields of study. For example, students with a passion for planets can learn about the fundamentals of data management then apply that knowledge to a whole world of astrophysics classes.

While the school features six unique data science emphasis areas, its liberal arts approach to education means students can add classes from fields of their choosing while still learning advanced data science skills.

MICHIGAN (PUBLIC)

Eastern Michigan University (Public)

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Ypsilanti, MI

BSI in Data Science and Analytics (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $16,311 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $608)

• Has three concentrations: theory, web analytics, and advanced data analysis.
• Despite having over 14,000 students, the school maintains a comfortable 14:1 student/faculty ratio.
• Features an interdisciplinary computer science, statistics, and business curriculum.

At 77 credit hours, EMU’s core data science curriculum is in-depth and well-rounded. Even introductory 100-level classes cover programming and mathematics. But within this rigorous structure, students still have options. They can opt to take classes like Statistical Methods that keep the focus broad and flexible or dive into more career-focused topics like enterprise resource planning.

But the program’s most advanced courses are found in its three areas of concentration. Students in the theory concentration can learn more about the intricate mathematical principles behind data science while their advanced data analysis counterparts explore topics like biostatistics and mathematical modeling. More marketing-oriented undergrads can choose the web analytics concentration and learn how to mine vast amounts of social media data to bring their future organizations to new markets.

Western Michigan University (Public)

STATISTICS AND COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENTS
Kalamazoo, MI

Bachelor of Science in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $19,749 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $56.44)

• Home to an accelerated BS to MS Data Science program that lets students earn credits towards a Master’s degree while still in undergrad.
• Department faculty have worked on several interdisciplinary research projects like smart device security, high-performance computing in Big Data management, and using machine learning in autism detection.
• Hosts the Bronco Innovators Challenge, a program in which undergrads develop innovative ideas in teams, attend workshops, and get one-on-one business and research coaching.

Offered jointly by WMU’s Statistics and Computer Science Departments, this undergrad data science program offers a highly technical curriculum. Though students are required to take calculus and linear algebra courses, the rest of the required classes focus on more advanced topics like R programming, machine learning, and Big Data analysis using Python.

Along with teaching students to actually mine and analyze data, this program features classes on software systems development making it a great potential choice for innovation-minded undergrads who want to become the architects of tomorrow’s data-driven economy.

MINNESOTA (PUBLIC)

Metropolitan State University (Public)

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES, MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT
Saint Paul, MN

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $16,830 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $285.70)

• Home to about 10,000 students with a 13:1 student/faculty ratio.
• Has agreements with many Minnesota state colleges making MSU a great choice for transfer students.
• Features an advanced curriculum with a focus on the communication of advanced topics to non-professional audiences.

Before starting data science classes at MSU, the program prepares students with programming, statistics, and discrete mathematics classes. This solid background allows the core curriculum to focus on high-level data science principles. This includes applied machine learning, database management, and business analytics. However, diverse electives like Social Network Analysis and Cloud Computing let students take their education in exciting, career-oriented directions.

While students can choose to craft a data science capstone project, they can also opt to participate in a statistical consulting workshop that prepares them to solve problems and communicate with multi-disciplinary teams in a variety of workplace and research settings.

MISSOURI (PRIVATE)

Maryville University of Saint Louis (Private)

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Town and Country, MO

Bachelor of Science in Data Science (On-campus and online)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $24,733 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $622)

• Has an option for a business minor or an actuarial science concentration.
• Students work with a life coach to explore potential classes, career possibilities, internship opportunities, and more.
• Offers a 100% online data science bachelor’s degree option and an accelerated Master’s in Data Science. Students can begin accruing Master’s credit hours in their third year.

Along with offering courses in math modeling, various programming languages, and AI, Maryville’s data science bachelor’s program features a handful of unique options.

Students interested in digital assets can jump into a blockchain class. Future sports analysts can earn credit by working with the school’s coaches to provide data-driven training solutions. And data scientists of all stripes can study natural language processing, text mining, and forecasting.

For an added layer of hands-on instruction, the program also offers internship opportunities with businesses like Boeing, Allstate, and JPMorgan. And with an option to earn an online degree at both the bachelor’s and Master’s level, this data science program is an accessible option for many kinds of students.

William Jewell College (Private)

MATHEMATICS AND DATA SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Liberty, MO

Bachelor’s in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $20,876 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $385)

• Ranked sixth on US News and World Report’s list of the best midwest colleges in 2022 to 2023.
• Offers five STEM-focused data science degree tracks: molecular design, math and modeling, business intelligence, bioinformatics, economic analysis.
• Hosts internship opportunities with organizations like the CERN Nuclear Research Lab, Garmin, and multiple state and federal government agencies.

William Jewell College’s data science program focuses on empowering students to solve real-world data problems with programming and statistical knowledge. To do this, the core curriculum includes classes on data modeling, visualization, and database querying. But with five highly-focused emphasis areas to choose from, students can tailor their studies to their futures in business administration, molecular research, mathematics, and more. Along with completing a creative capstone project, data science students must also complete an internship, giving them the chance to work with industry professionals and practice their real-world collaboration skills.

NEBRASKA (PRIVATE)

Creighton University (Private)

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Omaha, NE

Bachelor of Science in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,040 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $514)

• Offers advanced computer science and advanced mathematics/statistics tracks.
• Students can improve their professional capabilities with classes and workshops about business analytics, risk management, and communications.
• As a Jesuit University, Creighton’s capstone projects focus on service and community involvement.

Creighton University prides itself on its multidisciplinary approach to data science.

While the core curriculum draws on computer science and mathematics, students can expand their knowledge by taking journalism and media classes. However, as students reach higher level classes, they have two options.

The advanced computer science track dives deeper into artificial intelligence and social network analytics — great for students eyeing careers in marketing and business analysis. On the other hand, the advanced mathematics track with its emphasis on statistics and probability could help students become powerful collaborators in scientific and research organizations.

With a robust study abroad and internship program, Creighton University strives to create data science professionals who can work with any number of teams in a dizzying array of environments.

NEW YORK (PRIVATE)

Siena College (Private)

SCHOOL OF SCIENCE
Loudonville, NY

BS in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,041 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $675)

• Siena College is the only school in the Capital Region with a data science bachelor’s program.
• Offers two unique degree tracks: applied data science and pure data science.
• All new data science students receive a free Raspberry Pi

Siena College’s data science program lets students map out their own academic journey.

Even within the core curriculum, students have ample choices like social science statistics or business statistics, calculus or mathematical decision-making, and a team project or an internship. Students who want to keep their studies strictly within data science can choose the pure data science track and learn more about topics like database management amd algorithmic design. However, students whose passions take them across disciplines can choose the applied data science track.

Outside of the core curriculum, this track has no definite structure. Instead, students work with academic advisors to fill their schedules with classes from any of the school’s many programs. So for students who have trouble finding programs that really call to them, Siena College can help them create one.

OHIO (PRIVATE)

Case Western Reserve University (Private)

CASE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
Cleveland, OH

BS in Data Science and Analytics (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,042 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $2,544)

• Home to faculty and research institutes dedicated to innovations in Big Data, the Internet of Things, smart systems, and high-performance computing.
• The Case School of Engineering has sent budding engineers and data scientists to study and work on collaborative international projects in China, Uganda, India, and Denmark.
• Case’s voluntary, paid co-op program gets students involved with organizations like Boston Dynamics, GE, NASA, and the Cleveland Clinic.

With 50 academic programs in the Case School of Engineering alone, Case Western Reserve University hosts an impressively dynamic BS data science program.

While the core curriculum includes classes on data analysis, algorithms, and data privacy, students can choose between seven emphasis areas: systems and programming, statistics, AI analytics, data mining, theory, engineering signals, and engineering optimization. On top of that, data science undergrads are also required to take courses in two application areas. This includes domains like econometrics, cognition and computation, bioinformatics, and much more. And with the school’s many co-op partners and its involvement in the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Expertise, students have a wealth of learning opportunities available outside of the classroom.

John Carroll University (Private)

DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS, COMPUTER SCIENCE, AND DATA SCIENCE
University Heights, OH

BS in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,043 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,570)

• Home to a number of STEM-specific scholarships as well as school-wide scholarships for first-years.
• Hands-on learning opportunities include internships with the Cleveland Clinic, fieldwork in Chile, and summer research projects with faculty.
• Data science capstone projects are completed with a real client.

At John Carroll University, data science education is all about honing valuable data analysis skills and exploring career options.

Through the rigorous core curriculum, students learn about database management, software development, and data visualization, but the program also offers nine emphasis areas to choose classes from. These areas include popular fields like business and physics, but also more unique options like political science, criminology, and digital humanities.

With a large study abroad program, many internship options, and a capstone project that lets students work with real clients, John Carroll University’s data science program is a truly hands-on, interdisciplinary experience.

The College of Wooster (Private)

Wooster, OH

Major in Statistical and Data Sciences (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,044 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,660)

• In keeping with the liberal arts tradition, data science majors at Wooster must take on a second major or minor outside of math and computer science.
• Through the Applied Methods and Research Experience (AMRE), students can serve as data analytics consultants with Fortune 500 companies.
• Also offers a data science minor.

At Wooster, the data science program is a great blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experiential learning opportunities.

With a curriculum built around computer science, statistics, mathematics, and research, students learn about advanced topics like software database engineering and machine intelligence. While these concepts are honed in hands-on lab courses, students can further bolster their toolkit by adding on a minor or second major in just about any field of study taught at the school. Similarly, undergrads must complete either an internship or independent study project to graduate.

So whether students have their hearts set on grad school or a specific industry, Wooster’s dynamic programming is designed to help them achieve their goals.

OKLAHOMA (PUBLIC)

University of Central Oklahoma (Public)

COLLEGE OF MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE
Edmond, OK

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,045 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $362.90)

• UCO offers a multitude of scholarships for academic achievement, leadership, first-year students, and STEM students.
• The Transformative Learning approach keeps education hands-on and holistic.
• Through the Professional Science Master’s program, students can take graduate-level computational science classes during their senior year.

UCO’s University Core class requirements mean that by the time students declare a data science major, they’ve already taken courses in critical inquiry, social and behavioral analysis, and quantitative reasoning. This gives them the background required to explore advanced data science topics like programming, data structures, and machine learning. Many of these classes also include a lab component so students get first-hand experience with tools data professionals use everyday. However, the UCO experience isn’t all about GPAs and classrooms. The Transformative Learning program fills students’ studies with team-based, community, and professional out-of-classroom learning experiences.

OREGON (PUBLIC)

University of Oregon (Public)

SCHOOL OF DATA AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
Eugene, OR

Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,556 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $650)

• UO began offering data science degrees in 2020, but the new School of Data and Computer Sciences will open in fall 2023.
• Offers an unrivaled 10 emphasis domains for data science.
• Faculty engage in data science research about astronomy, genetics, spam filtering, and even the intersection of self-identity and data.

The University of Oregon’s relatively new undergraduate data science program is already streamlined and comprehensive.

The core curriculum is made up of about a dozen courses that teach principles like probability, machine learning, and data ethics. However, students must also take classes from the Computational and Inferential Depth sequence, a group of advanced courses that covers everything from mathematical cryptography to software engineering.

But what really sets this program apart is its inclusion of ten emphasis areas like marketing, sociology, and linguistics.

With UO opening its new School of Data and Computer Sciences in fall 2023, new students can be on the ground level of a rich tradition of collaborative research and innovative data projects.

SOUTH CAROLINA (PUBLIC)

Winthrop University (Public)

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Rock Hill, SC

Bachelor of Arts in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $17,100 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $450)

• Data science majors also add a minor in an applicable area like accounting, physics, economics, and financial planning.
• Has a student body of over 5,000 with an average class size of 18.
• Graduates have gone on to work in diverse sectors including financial services, IT, insurance, and software development.

Over the course of 50 credit hours, Winthrop University students learn a well-rounded set of math and computer science-based data science skills. But after becoming familiar with topics like data mining and programming, students take their knowledge into other domains by taking on a minor. So for future business administrators, financial experts, and scientific researchers alike, Winthrop University offers a well-rounded approach to STEM education with multidisciplinary coursework and small class sizes.

TENNESSEE (PRIVATE)

Fisk University (Private)

SCHOOL OF NATURAL SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS
Nashville, TN

Data Science Major (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $25,582 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $564.88)

• The first bachelor’s data science program offered at a Historically Black College or University.
• Offers BS, BA, joint majors, and minors in data science.
• Home to a Data Science Club and a Data Science Innovation Hub

Like many colleges, Historically Black Fisk University’s data science program includes a number of advanced courses on mathematical modeling, database management, and machine learning. But Fisk takes students’ understanding of these concepts to another level by offering special topic seminar courses during students’ sophomore, junior, and senior years. In that same vein, the school also encourages students to double major in fields like political science, psychology, and mathematics.

This dedication to higher-level learning extends outside of Fisk’s classrooms, as well. Students can join the Data Science Club and meet with colleagues from every department in the school. In the Data Science Innovation Hub, students can collaborate with faculty and industry partners like Google and HCA Healthcare on paid internships and research projects.

TEXAS (PRIVATE)

Southern Methodist University (Private)

DEDMAN COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES AND SCIENCES
Dallas, TX

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $41,986 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $2,098)

• Along with the Data Science Institute, the school is home to a wealth of research centers like the AT&T Center for Visualizations and departments focused on research computing, advanced manufacturing, and global health.
• Due to financial aid and scholarship opportunities, 71% of grads leave without any student debt.
• Also home to an Applied Statistics and Data Analytics Master’s program.

SMU’s data science bachelor’s program is both sequential and highly modifiable.

The 18-hour core curriculum introduces students to the math behind basic data science principles. From there, students select from courses that explore the ethics of technology, statistics and experimental design, and various aspects of machine learning. But when students are ready for higher-level classes, they can take domain-specific courses about cloud computing, IT management, scientific computing, and supply chain logistics.

This program also asks students to complete an independent capstone project, but with the school’s numerous research institutes nearby, these projects can help students build relationships with faculty mentors and innovative industry professionals.

TEXAS (PUBLIC)

University of Houston-Downtown (Public)

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY
Houston, TX

Bachelor of Science in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $13,460 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $245.75)

• Data science students at UHD automatically earn minors in mathematics and statistics due to the program’s comprehensive course requirements.
• Offers twelve multidisciplinary emphasis areas like criminal justice, psychology, and digital design.
• Home to graduate programs for artificial intelligence, data analytics, applied statistics, and more.

In the bustling tech hub of downtown Houston, UHD offers undergrads a multi-faceted, experiential education in data science.

Along with a core set of classes that includes machine learning, operations research, and data curation, this program also prepares students for the complicated data industry by requiring two data ethics courses. But this program isn’t all about theory.

By gaining valuable experience with advanced data collection software and extending their studies into twelve emphasis areas, students learn how to take their data science skills into virtually limitless industries and research settings.

VERMONT (PUBLIC)

University of Vermont (Public)

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES
Burlington, VT

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $19,873 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $678)

• 92% of undergrads participate in research projects, internships, or other forms of experiential education.
• Some of the university’s research institutions include the Center for Biomedical Innovation, the Vermont Complex Systems Center, and the Gund Institute for Environment.
• Home to numerous graduate programs that grant degrees in complex systems and data science, biostatistics, and other data-driven fields.

The University of Vermont ‘s data science BS program is built on an interdisciplinary foundation. Students take about 50 credit hours worth of computer science, math, and statistics classes that include courses about machine learning and programming. But the vast number of data science electives lets students take their degree in a number of exciting theoretical and application-based directions. Electives include courses on geostatistics, neural networks, and fractals and chaos theory.

With an active research department and over 20,000 internships available through the Career Center, UVM could be a great choice for students craving a more hands-on learning experience.

VIRGINIA (PRIVATE)

Roanoke College (Private)

Salem, VA

Data Science Major (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $27,758 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $2,224)

• Features a theoretical track for grad-school-bound students and an applied track for students looking to enter the workforce.
• Roanoke sponsors a “100% Real-world Learning Guarantee” which helps students engage in research projects, internships, service opportunities, and study abroad programs.
• Recent Roanoke students have done internships with the Smithsonian, NASA, Merrill Lynch, and the National Institutes of Health.

While Roanoke College’s core data classes teach students about programming, statistical reasoning, and data visualization, students have two tracks to choose from for their more advanced studies. In the theoretical track, students study topics like discrete mathematics and machine learning to prepare them for graduate studies. But in the career track, they can become job-ready experts in business analytics and information systems management.

To foster student engagement and mentor relationships, students can complete internships, independent study projects, and practicums that allow them to apply their knowledge to fields ranging from film studies to sports management.

VIRGINIA (PUBLIC)

William & Mary (Public)

SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Williamsburg, VA

BS in Data Science (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,399 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,287)

• Offers three degree tracks: data application, algorithms, and spatial data analytics.
• Also has a data science minor and Ph.D. program.
• Home to globally-linked researched labs that let students, faculty, and industry professionals explore sustainable development, blockchain uses, nuclear security, and public health.

Data science may be a new field, but William & Mary’s academic tradition extends all the way back to 1693. With that wisdom, the school has built a data science program that provides students with foundations in programming, database management, machine learning, and the ethical questions behind it all.

The three degree tracks offered through the program all focus on different aspects of data science: AI applications, algorithmic design, and geographic/spatial analysis.

While many programs feature classes tailored to more business-oriented applications of data science, William & Mary offers a widely-applicable education on data science theories and methodologies students can take to any number of organizations.

WASHINGTON (PUBLIC)

Western Washington University (Public)

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
Bellingham, WA

Data Science BS (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,388 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $259)

• Adds a layer of physical science education to data science curriculum.
• Includes a team-based, faculty-guided, and potentially industry-sponsored senior data project.
• Also home to an online graduate-level data science certificate program.

Situated on Bellingham Bay across from the San Juan Islands, WWU offers a data science program rooted in computer science but bolstered by the school’s commitment to sustainability.

In addition to courses on machine learning, data structures, and algorithmic analysis, all data science students are required to complete a course sequence in one of four physical science domains including biology and geology. However, the school’s advanced set of electives cover just about every corner of the field. Students can choose from classes about AI, social network analysis, bioinformatics, and more theoretical topics like Bayesian statistics.

This multifaceted curriculum could be perfect for students who want to apply their skills to sustainability, biological research, or other fields of physical science.

WISCONSIN (PRIVATE)

Marquette University (Private)

KLINGLER COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Milwaukee, WI

Data Science Major (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $33,566 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $3,458.76)

• Offers many scholarships and work study opportunities.
• Also has a data science graduate certificate program.
• Through the 707 Hub, students can collaborate on projects with fellow students, businesses, nonprofits, and faculty. Some of these opportunities may include paid positions and internships.

Marquette’s computer science and math-focused data science program may be perfect for students who want a flexible, streamlined experience.

With courses like Data Structures, Matrix Theory, and Object-oriented Software Design, students learn the foundations of the field while collaborating with students and faculty on capstone research projects.

By taking electives like Bioinformatics Algorithms and Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence, undergrads can take their education in multiple career and graduate school-ready directions.

Through the school’s many research initiatives and the Bridge to Business program, students can both learn how to become successful data industry leaders and network with working professionals.

WISCONSIN (PUBLIC)

University of Wisconsin-River Falls (Public)

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
River Falls, WI

Bachelor’s in Data Science and Predictive Analysis (On-campus)

Total Estimated Program Cost: $14,318 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $324.82)

• The University of Wisconsin System also offers 100% online Master’s Data Science degrees and certificates.
• Features electives that build future data scientists’ business skills.
• The school awards over $3 million in aid and scholarships every year with 84% of students receiving some form of financial assistance.

UWRF offers a streamlined data science curriculum that includes classes on database management, programming, and applied machine learning. However, students can choose to double major in computer science or mathematics with only five or six additional classes. But to help this program truly meet students’ educational and professional goals, undergrads can take electives in finance, marketing, geographic information systems, and other application-oriented fields.

With the help of the department’s multidisciplinary faculty, whose interests range from image processing to bioinformatics, UWRF students can develop an adaptable, solution-focused toolkit built for all the challenges of this ever-changing industry.