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Interdisciplinary

Data Science BS

Learn to extract meaning from data to enhance knowledge, inform decision-making, make more accurate predictions, and create more efficient technologies.

Program details

Degree
Bachelor of Science
Accelerated degree options
Modality
On-campus
Duration
4 years
Total Credits
120
Designated
STEM, STEM-OPT
Data science major talking with faculty about a data visualization on screen
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Why study data science at UMass Dartmouth?

The data science program at UMass Dartmouth prepares you to become a leader in the data-driven economy.  

Combining informatics, data analysis, predictive analytics, and data visualization, data science is one of the fastest-growing fields worldwide. It’s also one of the most versatile: organizations across nearly every industry need professionals who can turn vast amounts of complex data into actionable insights and strategic decisions. 

Today’s data scientists do more than write code and clean datasets. As AI rapidly evolves and becomes more widely adopted, demand is growing for professionals who can integrate machine learning into workflows, tackle increasingly complex datasets, and use advanced analytical tools to solve problems.

The data science major is an interdisciplinary program offered jointly by the department of computer science (in the College of Engineering) and the department of mathematics (in the College of Arts and Sciences). Through small classes, hands-on projects, undergraduate research, and internship opportunities, you'll graduate ready to  launch a career in data science and apply your skills wherever data drives decisions.

Launch your career

Salary range: $112,590
Median pay for data scientists
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
34%
Job growth by 2034
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
#1
Big data specialist is the #1 fastest growing career
Source: World Economic Forum
#1
AI and big data are the #1 fastest growing skill set
Source: World Economic Forum

What can I do with a Data Science BS degree?

Data science is one of the fastest growing fields, and one of the most versatile. Virtually every industry relies on data to make decisions, grow, and innovate. From finance and healthcare to energy and aerospace, employers across industries need data-literate problem solvers who can turn vast amounts of information into meaningful, actionable insights.  

Data science majors are in high demand to fill roles like: 

  • Data scientist 
  • Data analyst 
  • Machine learning engineer 
  • Business intelligence analyst 
  • Market research analyst 
  • AI engineer 
  • Financial analyst 
  • Big data engineer 
  • Data systems developer 

Top employers

Amazon
Capital One logo
Pratt and Whitney logo

Curriculum

The data science curriculum covers topics such as data visualization and matrix methods for data mining, as well as traditional courses in computer and information science and mathematics. During your senior year, you will complete a team capstone project that focuses on real-world, industry-specific challenges. Our students have classified gravitational wave signals, analyzed attendance patterns at NBA games, and classified and predicted the effectiveness of cancer drugs. As a data science major, you will learn the skills to: 

  • Analyze and interpret large, complex datasets to uncover patterns and insights 
  • Create compelling data visualizations that make complex information easier to understand 
  • Apply computational thinking and tools to solve complex problems across disciplines 
  • Use statistics and mathematical modeling to understand data and make informed predictions 
  • Apply your skills to real-world challenges through interdisciplinary projects and a capstone experience 

Real-world experience

As a data science major, you don't have to wait to start exploring career paths and using data to solve real problems. Data science students assist faculty with research and complete internships at tech companies, environmental research labs, financial services firms, and more. 

At UMass Dartmouth, you’ll have support at every step toward your career goals. Faculty help you connect classroom learning with real-world applications, while resources like the Career Center offer guidance on internships, career exploration, and job searches. You’ll graduate with the skills, experience, and support to pursue your next opportunity with confidence.

Academic catalog

Course descriptions and requirements

Explore the official academic catalog for detailed curriculum requirements, course descriptions and program information.

View the full academic catalog (opens in a new tab)

Data science student Ben Dacosta

Student Spotlight

Hometown
Boston, MA
Major
Data Science
Leadership
National Society of Black Engineers
Internship
MetaGenius AI, Brown Brothers Harriman
Employment
Brown Brothers Harriman


Accelerated degree options

Explore accelerated pathways that may help you complete your bachelor’s degree sooner, begin graduate coursework early, or pursue a streamlined path to a master’s, teaching, or law degree. Available options vary by program and eligibility.

4+1 Accelerated bachelor’s to master’s option

Qualified students in this program may be eligible to pursue an accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s pathway at UMass Dartmouth. This option allows you to begin graduate coursework while completing your undergraduate degree and transition directly into a master's program.


Learn more about Accelerated Degrees at UMass Dartmouth

Accolades

UMass Dartmouth is a nationally ranked R2 research university that combines the resources of a major university with a personalized educational experience. Ranked among the top 15 public research institutions with fewer than 10,000 students and in the top 17% nationally for return on investment, UMass Dartmouth is recognized for advancing research, social mobility, and career-ready education.

Nationally ranked discovery across arts and sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences brings together nationally ranked programs, accomplished scholars, and research with measurable impact. Its faculty includes eight Fulbright Scholars and has secured more than $14 million in grants over three years, creating opportunities for students to learn through research, creative inquiry, and community engagement.

Nationally ranked engineering with ABET-accredited programs

The College of Engineering is home to ABET-accredited undergraduate programs and nationally-ranked graduate programs supported by significant research activity and industry partnerships. Students gain hands-on experience through advanced laboratories, faculty-led research, internships, and work addressing emerging challenges in engineering, computing, energy, healthcare, and technology.

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about the Data Science BS program? Here you will find answers to common questions about admissions, curriculum, career outcomes, and student experience.

Data science combines computing, mathematics, and statistics to analyze data, uncover patterns, and solve problems. It helps organizations turn large amounts of information into insights that inform decisions and drive innovation.

A data science degree can prepare you for careers in technology, business, healthcare, science, and more. You’ll learn to analyze complex datasets, uncover patterns, build predictive models, and help organizations make better decisions.

The program is jointly offered by the Department of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and the Department of Mathematics in the College of Arts and Sciences. This interdisciplinary approach combines computing and mathematical expertise, with opportunities for hands-on projects, undergraduate research, and internships.

Data Science is available as a minor. Contact your academic advisor for more information.

The Data Science BS program is designated as a STEM degree and may qualify eligible F-1 international students for the 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) extension after completing standard post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Eligibility for STEM OPT is determined by U.S. immigration regulations and individual student circumstances. To learn about eligibility requirements and the application process, review the International Student & Scholar Center (ISSC) OPT page and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) STEM OPT guidance. F-1 students must work with the ISSC to apply for a STEM OPT extension.

Contact

Program Co-Directors

Ashokkumar Patel Associate Teaching Professor Computer and Information Science College of Engineering Donghui Yan Associate Professor Mathematics College of Arts & Sciences

Email: datascience@umassd.edu

Admissions

Phone: 508- 999-8605

Email: undergraduate@admissions.umassd.edu
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