Open laptop with images and graphics on the screen in Data Science class.

Data Science Major

Apply solutions to the world’s future problems, today.

Prepare yourself to turn data into knowledge. Data is everywhere and is largely an untapped resource with the potential to inform every aspect of our lives and the world around us. At Houghton University, the data science program is designed to equip you with the technical skills, hands-on experience, and most importantly, the confidence to excel in this growing field.

Employers are looking for people with the ability to transform data into action. Data Science is an exciting new field that brings people together to create data solutions to solve some of the world’s most challenging problems.

ClassesCareersMeet the Faculty

Data Science in Action at NASCAR

Students in the Data Science program at Houghton University can participate in student-led consulting projects designed to generate data solutions for real clients. The analytics department at the Nashville Superspeedway (NSS) partnered with an interdisciplinary team of Houghton students to develop NASCAR fan engagement surveys. NSS wanted tap into the technical skills and diverse expertise the Houghton students had to offer. Results will be used to enhance the NASCAR fan experience next year and the NSS is keen to work with data science students on more projects.

What will I learn?

Through Houghton’s major in Data Science, you will master the art of transforming complex data into actionable information as you:

  • Gain critical skills in areas of statistical modeling, computer programming, data mining, machine learning, data visualization, data ethics, and more.
  • Begin with the basic fundamentals of the data science process and then advance to more advanced topics based on your interests.
  • Specialize your degree through elective courses, such as collaborative research, internships and independent studies, that allow you to focus on areas such as sports analytics, healthcare, business, and data for social good.

124 Credits

Degree Requirements (B.A.)

The Data Science Process

1

Ask an interesting question

What is the scientific goal? What would you do if you had all the data? What do you want to predict or estimate?
2

Get the data

How were the data sampled? Which data are relevant? Are there privacy issues?
3

Explore the data

Plot the data. Are there anomalies? Are there patterns?
4

Model the data

Build a model. Fit the model. Validate the model.
5

Communicate and visualize the results

What did we learn? Do the results make sense? Can we tell a story?

Why study Data Science at Houghton University?

Accelerated Learning

Data science courses are offered at the high school and first year level, preparing students sooner for internships to kick start their careers. Students can learn data science fundamentals early on, leaving room for advanced courses, internships, and research opportunities to give them a competitive edge for their future.

Real-World Impact

Students are connected to data science internships and experiential learning opportunities. Students can learn data science on location by working with real data sets across a range of domains. Students can connect their faith with their interest in data science to help solve problems around the world.

Career Connections

Alumni at Houghton University are actively engaged with students providing real work opportunities and connections to well-known companies like John Deere, Wells Fargo, Microsoft, Buffalo Bills, Wegmans, Paychex and the list goes on. For students interested in research, the multi-year Van Dyk Scholars grant is an example of alumni support for data science students. Whether you are looking to join the workforce or continue your studies, the data science community at Houghton University can jump-start your career.

Program Outcomes

Students earning a data science degree from Houghton University are prepared for careers in almost any field. For four years in a row, data scientist has been named the number one job in the U.S. by Glassdoor and employment is expected to grow each year. There is a constant demand for professionals who can understand a business need, clean and analyze complex data, and devise data-oriented solutions.

Database Administrator
Data Research Scientist
Market Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
Statistician
Survey Researcher

Additional Data Science Careers

  • Quantitative analyst
  • Data mining engineer
  • Machine learning engineer
  • Data architect
  • Data warehouse drafter
  • Commercial intelligence manager
  • Manager of business and market intelligence
  • Director of enterprise strategy

Employment Expected to Grow 25%

for operations research analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor StatisticsSource

What Graduates Say:

What Employers Say:

Application Requirements

1

Start Your Application

Complete the application here
Apply Now
2

Documents and Supporting Materials

You’ll be asked to provide your official high school transcript and your test scores (can be waived)
Testing Policy
3

Personal Statement

The personal statement portion of our application for admission is perhaps the best place to truly tell your story, to tell who you are and what is important to you.
Personal Statement

Have Questions?

Discover if earning your degree in Data Science from Houghton University is right for you.

Request More Information

Get more details on your program of interest

Call Us

Contact 1-800-777-2556 to connect with an admission representative.

Send an email

admission@houghton.edu