Data Science

Undergraduate

Data science extracts meaningful knowledge from large amounts of complex data by using scientific methods, statistics and computing tools.

Program Overview

The data science major lives at the intersection of many fields. Cross-disciplinary by definition, this major is an exercise in integration, one that brings together technical skills and domain-specific knowledge to create new pathways for learning. The data science major will prepare you to face emerging questions and challenges in the communication of data concepts and outcomes. Offering rigorous training in statistics and computer science, the major emphasizes how to be an effective, ethical and judicious consumer of data.

The major offers a foundational understanding of the data generating process, the appropriate and efficient translation of analytic strategies to specific data settings, the potential biases arising from missing data or data collection, the means for drawing accurate conclusions, and the techniques and principles of integrity in data visualization and communication. As part of your data science education, you will develop excellent communication skills and the ability to make clear and persuasive arguments framed by logic and supported by data.

The curriculum is flexible and innovative, serving a diverse backgrounds and disciplinary interests, and deep enough to accommodate anyone who wants ultimately to pursue advanced study in statistics and computer science. The Data Science curriculum reflects the increasingly collaborative and interdisciplinary academic landscape.

Courses and Requirements

Culminating in an integrative capstone and data ethics course, the data science curriculum includes required coursework in mathematics and statistics with a choice of domain area, such as English, economics or chemistry.

Learning Goals

  • Apply core concepts of statistics, computing, and domain knowledge to extract insight from data sets.
  • Understand the social and ethical issues surrounding data collection, analysis and use.
  • Be able to communicate in multiple modalities the results of large scale data analysis.

Contact Us

Cross-disciplinary by definition, Data Science prepares students to face emerging questions and challenges in the communication of data concepts and outcomes.

Next Steps

Apply to Mount Holyoke

Mount Holyoke seeks intellectually curious applicants who understand the value of a liberal arts education and are driven by a love of learning. As a women's college that is gender diverse, we welcome applications from female, trans and non-binary students.

Financing your education

Everyone’s financial situation is unique, and we’re here to make sure cost does not get in the way of an exceptional education.