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Data Science

Data Science


Why Study Data Science at Western Kentucky University?

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science is a joint program between the Gordon Ford College of Business and the Ogden College of Science and Engineering. This program merges computer science, statistics, business data analytics, and economics to harness the power of data for informed decision-making and innovative problem-solving. Through a combination of technical skills, business concepts, hands-on projects, and real-world applications, students will graduate with the skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving landscape of data-driven industries.
 

The program has an innovative design - in addition to a core set of classes, students have to complete a minor or a certificate in a discipline related to data science. This will allow students to become proficient not only with the technical skills but also learn how to apply those skills to real-world problems.

 

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$108,020

Data Scientists Median Salary


The data above is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm

36%

Projected Growth (2024 - 2032)

The data above is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm

Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Analyst, Market Research Analyst, Predictive Modeler

Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science 


The data above is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm    

 

Data Science Program Information

Data Science (5012)


  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Business
  • GFCB Interdisciplinary Programs

Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the interdisciplinary field of data science. This program merges computer science, statistics, and domain-specific knowledge to harness the power of data for informed decision-making and innovative problem-solving. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, hands-on projects, and real-world applications, students will graduate with the skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving landscape of data-driven industries.
 

To earn the degree, the students have to complete a core set of classes and at least one certificate or a minor. The students will have an opportunity to personalize the degree by choosing one or multiple certificates that align with their interests.

Program Highlights:

  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Our program seamlessly integrates concepts from business data analytics, economics, computer science, mathematics, and domain-specific areas, providing students with a holistic perspective on data science.
  • Strong Foundation: Students will develop a solid foundation in programming, database management, statistical analysis, and machine learning techniques.
  • Data Visualization: Learn to create compelling visualizations that effectively communicate complex insights to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Industry-Standard Tools: Gain proficiency in popular tools and technologies used in the field, such as Python, R, SQL, and data manipulation libraries.
  • Capstone Project: Culminate your learning journey with a capstone project where you will tackle a real-world problem using data-driven approaches under the guidance of faculty mentors.
  • Career Preparation: Receive guidance on resume building, interview techniques, and job search strategies, and access our strong network of alumni working in various data science roles.
  • Career Opportunities: Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the data science field, including but not limited to:
    • Data Analyst
    • Machine Learning Analyst
    • Business Intelligence Analyst
    • Quantitative Analyst
    • Predictive Modeler
    • Market Research Analyst
    • Data Scientist

Program Requirements (51-61 hours) 

Course List
Core Courses42
BDAN 250Introduction to Analytics3
BDAN 310Business Data Analytics3
BDAN 350Data Management3
BDAN 420Predictive Modeling3
CS 180Computer Science I4
DATA 301Big Data with its Applications3
ECON 206Statistics3
ECON 465Regression and Econometric Analysis3
ECON 487Data Methods in Economics3
MATH 136Calculus I4
MATH 306Applied and Computational Linear Algebra3
STAT 330Introduction to Statistical Software3
DATA 399Career Readiness in Data Science (Career Readiness)1
DATA 499Senior Assessment - Data Science (Senior Seminar)3

Select a block of electives from one of the options below                    

Course List
Courses leading to the Applied Analytics Certificate9
BDAN 305Data Modeling and Analysis3
Select two courses6
BDAN 330
Structured Data Analysis
BDAN 410
DSS Analysis and Design
BDAN 430
Data Visualization
Courses Leading to the Applied Statistics Minor9
STAT 402Experimental Design3
MATH 382Probability and Statistics I3
MATH 482Probability and Statistics II3
Courses Leading to the Computer Science Minor16
CS 290Computer Science II4
CS 351Database Management Systems I3
Three 300- or 400-level CS course not already in the program9
Courses Leading to the Economic Data Analytics Certificate9
ECON 307Financial Data Modeling3
ECON 480Economic Forecasting3
ECON 486Applied Statistical Methods in Economics3
Courses Leading to the GIS Certificate14
GISC 316Geographic Information Systems I4
GISC 317Geographic Information Systems II4
GISC 417GIS Analysis & Modeling3
GISC 419GIS Programming3
Courses leading to the Health Informatics Certificate18-19
BDAN 305Data Modeling and Analysis3
BDAN 330Structured Data Analysis3
HIM 230Computer Systems and Applications in Health Information Management3
HIM 330Electronic Health Record Systems3
HIM 430Health Data Management and Analytics3
Choose one of the following3-4
HIM 100
Health Data Content and Structure
HCA 340
Health Care Organization and Management
Courses Leading to the Emergency Managment Disaster Science MDS Certificate12
EMDS 400Emergency Management Policy and Practices3
EMDS 401Natural and Technological Disaster Risks3
EMDS 402Resiliency in Response to Terrorism and Violence3
EMDS 403Advanced Disaster Planning, Management, and Preparedness3

Finish in Four Plans

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BDAN 2503CS 1804
COMM 1453ECON 2063
ENG 1003ENG 200 (or another approved Colonnade Course)3
MATH 1364HIST 101 or HIST 1023
Colonnade Explorations - Arts And Humanities3Colonnade Explorations - Social and Behavioral3
 16 16
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BDAN 3103BDAN 3503
DATA 3013MATH 3063
STAT 3303Colonnade Explorations - Natural and Physical Sciences3
Colonnade Explorations - Natural and Physical Sciences3Data Science Elective3
Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3
 15 15
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 3003DATA 3991
ECON 4653ECON 4873
Data Science Elective3Data Science Elective3
Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3
Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3
 Colonnade Connections3
 15 16
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BDAN 4203DATA 4993
Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3Colonnade Connections3
Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3
Colonnade Connections3Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3
Elective/Second Major/Minor/Certificate course3 
 15 12
Total Hours 120


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The GFCB was instrumental in my professional development. I received my Bachelor of Arts and my Master of Arts in Economics at WKU. It is the place where I realized I wanted to become a Data Scientist. At GFCB, I was able to make professional connections and build a network. At the same time, with the support from faculty and student success resources, I was able to acquire useful and practical knowledge and professional skills during my time at GFCB.

Collin, Business Analyst


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  • 270-745-3150
  • Email the Program Coordinator Dr. Lebedinsky at: alex.lebedinsky@wku.edu

  • 1906 College Heights Blvd. #11061
    Bowling Green, KY 42101-1061


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 Last Modified 11/8/24