College of Science and Health
Data Science
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Data Science: A Fusion of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Analytical Expertise
Data science is a more targeted version of the computer science major, involving more math, statistics and, most importantly, analysis.
Our data science program provides students with the ideal mixture of mathematical and computational sciences. It is administered jointly by the mathematics and computer science departments, offering students a well-rounded experience. Benedictine is one of very few local schools offer an undergraduate major in either data science or data analytics.
The BenU Difference
Students in the Data Science program have the opportunities to:
- Learn how to search, collect and analyze data sets of all types, big and small.
- Analyze data through mathematical and statistical techniques and present a well-defended conclusion about the data.
- Train in database management, object-oriented programming and potentially machine learning, data mining and big data.
Navigating the Future with a Degree in Data Science
In the age of information, data has become the cornerstone of decision-making in industries ranging from finance to healthcare. Recognizing this shift, our university has meticulously crafted a Data Science Degree Program, designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic field. This program is not just about learning; it’s about applying that learning to real-world scenarios.
At the core of our program are the Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs), which are aligned with the university’s broader educational objectives. The first outcome focuses on developing a strong foundation in mathematics. Courses like Calculus, Linear Algebra, Probability, and Statistics are more than just requirements; they are the building blocks for understanding complex data. But we don’t stop at theory. Our program emphasizes the application of mathematics to other disciplines through mathematical modeling and problem-solving, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges across various industries.
Technology plays a pivotal role in data science, and our program reflects this through its emphasis on technological proficiency. Students learn to use technology not just as a tool but as an integral part of solving mathematical problems. This is complemented by a comprehensive understanding of the Java programming language, ensuring that our graduates are not just data scientists but also proficient programmers.
However, understanding data is not just about mathematical and programming skills. It’s about developing a strong understanding of algorithms and the ability to formulate and execute data-driven decisions. Our courses in Algorithms, Business Intelligence, and Data Analytics are designed to hone critical and creative thinking skills, ensuring that our graduates can navigate the complexities of data in a practical, effective manner.
Our Data Science Degree Program is more than just a pathway to a career; it’s a journey towards becoming a leader in a data-driven world. With capstone projects, internship opportunities, and workshops led by industry professionals, our students don’t just learn about data science – they live it. As they step out into the world, armed with the knowledge and skills acquired, they are not just graduates; they are the future shapers of an increasingly data-centric world.
Embrace a World of Creative and Professional Opportunities
Graduates of the Data Science Degree Program can pursue careers in various sectors, including technology, finance, healthcare, and government. Potential roles include Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, and Machine Learning Engineer.
What our Alumni have done with this degree
Our alumni have gone on to successful careers at companies like Google, HS2 Solutions, Boeing, Argonne National Laboratory, Northrop Grumman, Cisco, Navistar, UPS, Motorola, and more.
Here is an example of some courses you may take in the Data Science program:
- Machine Learning
- Data Mining
- Database Management Systems
- Probability and Statistics I
- Data Science Capstone