Data Science
Turn massive data into actionable insights and predictions
What You'll Study
Data Science is the art of turning raw data into meaning. You use statistics, programming, and machine learning to find patterns, make predictions, and help businesses make smarter decisions.
- Probability and Statistics
- Data Visualization
- Machine Learning Algorithms
- Big Data Technologies (Hadoop, Spark)
- Data Mining
- Programming for Data Science (Python, R)
- Database Management (SQL)
- Business Intelligence
Example Classes
How to Know If You'll Like It
You'll probably enjoy this if...
- ✓You love finding patterns and trends in information
- ✓You are good at math, especially statistics
- ✓You are curious and ask "why" a lot
- ✓You want to influence big decisions with facts
- ✓You enjoy coding but also like math/business
- ✓You are a storyteller who can explain complex data simply
You might not enjoy this if...
- ✕You dread statistics class
- ✕You find analyzing spreadsheets boring
- ✕You prefer vague creativity over hard facts
- ✕You struggle with attention to detail
Self-Check Quiz
Answer these questions honestly to see if this major might be a good fit for you.
Do you enjoy looking at sports stats or election polls?
Career Outcomes
Featured In-Demand Careers
Data Scientist
Analyze complex data sets to derive insights that drive business decisions. Combine statistics, programming, and domain expertise.
AI/ML Engineer
Design and implement artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions that power intelligent systems.
Business Analyst
Identify business needs and determine solutions to business problems, often involving IT systems.
Fintech Specialist
Combine finance and technology to create new banking, investment, and payment solutions.
Actuary
Use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to measure, manage, and mitigate financial risk and uncertainty.
Other Common Career Paths
- •Data Analyst
- •Business Intelligence Analyst
- •Market Research Analyst
- •Statistician
Industries
Try It First
Test if you like this field before committing to a major:
Find a dataset on Kaggle.com (e.g., movies) and open it in Excel. Find the top 3 rated genres.
Learn basic SQL syntax on Khan Academy or SQLZoo.
Use Python (Pandas) to analyze a dataset and create 3 charts showing your findings.
Related Majors
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's a mix of math, coding, and business understanding.
For top research roles, yes. But for many applied roles, a Bachelor's is increasing sufficient.
Python is #1. R and SQL are also essential.
Not if you are curious! You are solving mysteries using data.
Everywhere. Tech, Finance, Retail, Healthcare, Sports teams use data.
Ready to Explore This Major?
Get personalized guidance on whether Data Science is right for you and how to build a competitive profile.