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Studying Data Science

Why Study Data?

Data is everywhere, in every area of study. Explore the field you are passionate about while immersing yourself in its data story. Discover trends that were previously unknown and make a difference with the solutions you uncover. Many leading local organizations are citing data science as a top hirable need.

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“If you want to set yourself apart when you apply and interview for a job, get a minor or concentration in data science,” says James Vance, department chair and professor of mathematics and wildlife resources.

UVA Wise’s data science program empowers students to tackle data science projects in regional businesses and organizations. At the same time, students will develop an understanding of larger data sets that are accessible through national organizations.

“Cloud & Collaboration Computing is an amazing course even if you’re not into data science, because everything is moving into the cloud,” says data science minor, Dalton Keel.

A Growing Career Field

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in data science are growing much faster than average. An estimated 153,900 roles will exist in 2031. Some sample job titles include data analyst, scheduling analyst, data scientist, product analyst, and healthcare data analyst.

Important qualities data analysts and scientists should have:

  • Analytical skills. Data scientists must be adept at researching and at examining and interpreting findings.
  • Computer skills. Data scientists must be able to write code, analyze data, develop or improve algorithms, and use data visualization tools.
  • Communication skills. Data scientists must be able to convey the results of their analysis to technical and nontechnical audiences to make business recommendations.
  • Logical-thinking skills. Data scientists must understand and be able to design and develop statistical models and to analyze data.
  • Math skills. Data scientists use statistical methods to collect and organize data.
  • Problem-solving skills. Data scientists must devise solutions to the problems they encounter in data collection and cleaning and in developing statistical models and algorithms.

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Concentration in Data Science

Students seeking a Bachelor of Science Degree in the following majors may choose to complete the Concentration in Data Science. A letter grade of C or better in all coursework is required.

  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Mathematics
  • Management Information Systems
  • Software Engineering

Coursework

  • MTH 1130 or MTH 3030
    Matrix Algebra (1) or Introduction to Linear Algebra with Applications (3)
  • MTH 2030 or MTH 2040
    Calculus Essentials or Calculus I
  • STA/MTH 2180 or BIO 2025 or MTH 3250
    Applied Probability and Statistics or Biostatistics or Probability and Statistics I
  • CSC 1010 or CSC 1180
    Introductory Programming in Python or Foundations of Programming in C++
  • DSC 3500
    Data Analytics & Modeling
  • DSC 4500
    Data Visualization

Minor in Data Science

Students seeking a minor in Data Science can come from all majors and will qualify for the minor by completing (with a C or better) the coursework below:

Coursework

  • CSC 1010
    Introductory Programming in Python
  • CSC 2240
    Programming in Python
  • MTH/STA 2180
    Applied Probability and Statistics
  • MIS/DSC 3500
    Data Analytics & Modeling
  • MIS/DSC 4350
    Cloud & Collaboration Computing
  • MIS/DSC 4500
    Data Visualization