Bachelor of Science in Data Science

Shape the future with UNE鈥檚 cutting-edge data science program.

Learn to make an impact using Data

Position yourself for success by maximizing the bang of the world鈥檚 data explosion. As a Data Science major at UNE, you will fuse your passions for mathematical modeling and computing with new skill sets in data analysis, data visualization, and predictive modeling. Through our unique 鈥渞everse practicums鈥 (internships that bring the employers to you), you will become one of today鈥檚 most sought-after professionals.

Come learn and go earn with UNE鈥檚 Data Science program. You鈥檒l establish a strong foundation in essential mathematics and computing through courses in computer programming and applied mathematics, and develop expertise in data mining, predictive modeling, and data visualization.

A student stands next to a large monitor showing site analytics
Two students review six colorful graphs with yellow backgrounds on a large monitor

Why 91直播视频for your B.S. in Data Science

Unlike other data science programs that offer internships, we bring the employer to you through our reverse practicums, allowing you to work under the guidance of faculty and alongside an employer-mentor on real industry projects. In our Makerspace, you will use cloud-based platforms to perform sophisticated analytics for high-tech applications, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

  • Learn how to tackle diverse, interesting problems creatively
  • UNE鈥檚 School of Computer Science and Data Analytics is led by expert faculty renowned in the field
  • Work with faculty to create visualizations and models that uncover valuable insights
  • Data science is a highly in-demand career path
  • Data scientists rank high in job satisfaction and compensation
  • Gain skills that help contribute to fields like AI, biotechnology, finance, health care, insurance, marketing, advertising, and sports analytics
  • Explore cutting-edge business models
  • 91直播视频is the #1 Maine college for getting a job after graduation (Zippia, 2023)
Headshot of Shanley Camara

Shanley Camara 鈥22

Data Science

Experiential Education

Since Data Science is a brand-new major at UNE, I get to work really closely with the math department to help develop the program. I give insights into the classes that they offer. Some of the classes don't even exist yet because it's so new, and I get to give feedback that could influence the way that those classes will look in the future. It鈥檚 cool to be part of a new major or a new field in general. The faculty and staff are really nice, and they're very open. I'm not afraid to give my feedback.

I鈥檓 a teaching assistant for the head of the department. He gives me a variety of projects to work on. There's one with a company called GWI where we are helping to develop a model to establish internet in rural communities in Maine. I鈥檓 also working on another project right now to model how many sections the department might need of certain math classes. I take the data and look at how many sections they had before and with how many students enrolled. I look at if the class is required for students. I then take all of that information and try to model a solution.

It鈥檚 really fun. Getting to work with real data and help make decisions for the department is real-life problem solving. It鈥檚 awesome.

Welcoming Community

The 91直播视频community is pretty tight, and all of the extracurriculars work together. I鈥檓 in a few clubs 鈥 math club, hunger initiative, and the NOLA service learning club.

Math club is new and small right now, but we鈥檙e working on making review packets for calculus to sell around campus before exams to help fundraise. We鈥檙e putting on a math meet soon to practice before the Maine state math meet. We think it鈥檇 be fun to get high schoolers together to practice.

91直播视频is a fun place. It鈥檚 a small school, so you get to know a lot of people closely. The beach is so nice. I like to run down Hills Beach Road. It鈥檚 a beautiful place to live.

Getting to work with real data and help make decisions for the department is real-life problem solving. It鈥檚 awesome.

Data Science

What will you study? Data Science Degree Curriculum Overview

There are many ways you can navigate our Data Science degree. Because data scientists are needed in virtually every field, our curriculum is flexible to allow for a minor or a double major.

B.S. in Data Science Courses

The following are just some examples of the exciting courses that the Data Science major offers:

  • Data Visualization
  • Data Analysis and Modelling
  • Data Mining
  • Programming
  • Predictive Analytics
  • Database Design and SQL

Curriculum

CAS Core RequirementsCredits
Total Credits42
Program Required CoursesCredits
DSC 110 鈥 Survey of Software Tools1
DSC 130 鈥 Exploring Data3
DSC 225 鈥 Programming I or MAT 225 鈥 Computer Programming w/MATLAB3
DSC 260 鈥 Data Visualization3
DSC 301 鈥 Introduction to Database Design/SQL3
DSC 344 鈥 Machine Learning3
DSC 410 鈥 Data Mining or DSC 420 鈥 Predictive Modeling or DSC 490 鈥 Topics in Data Science3
DSC 480 鈥 Data Science Practicum3
MAT 120 鈥 Statistics or MAT 150 鈥 Statistics for Life SciencesCredits Fulfilled by Core Requirements
MAT 190 鈥 Calculus I3
MAT 220 鈥 Linear Algebra3
Total Credits28
Select Four (4) of the Following:Credits
DSC 205 鈥 Introduction to Data Analysis and Modeling3
DSC 270 鈥 Data Structures and Algorithms3
DSC 325 鈥 Programming II3
GIS 364 鈥 Spatial Data Analysis3
MAT 195 鈥 Calculus II3
MAT 212 鈥 Discrete Mathematics3
MAT 323 鈥 Applied Regression Analysis3
MAT 340 鈥 Graph Theory with Applications3
MAT 405 鈥 Introduction to Numerical Analysis3
Total Credits12
Open elective credits (as needed to reach 120 credits)Variable
Minimum Total Required Credits120

To learn more about the program visit the Academic Catalog.

We also offer a minor in Data Science.

91直播视频Alumna Destiny Martin on Careers in Math and Data Science

Career Paths for Data Science Majors

With the analytical skills and competencies you gain from your coursework and the business acumen you acquire from close working relationships with faculty and industry partners, you will be well on your way to an exciting career in data science.

Graduates may pursue many fascinating professions, including:

  • Data Scientist
  • Business Analyst/Intelligence Specialist
  • Computer Programmer
  • Data Journalist
  • Database Administrator
  • Health Care Analytics Specialist
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Medical Research Consultant
  • Web Analytics Specialist
  • Political/Policy Analyst

Career Advising for B.S. in Data Science Students

Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.

Data Science By The Numbers

32%

Projected job market growth for computer scientists for 2022鈥2032

 

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023
$121k

average data scientist salary

Glassdoor.com

Experiential Learning in the Bachelor鈥檚 Degree in Data Science Program

Our industry partnerships with local employers give you real-world experience, presenting you with actual problems that businesses face. These relationships may even pave the way to permanent employment. At UNE, you don鈥檛 just learn data science 鈥 you do data science.

A group of students look at a graph of data on a large monitor

Reverse Practicums

Our unique reverse practicums are internships that put you in the shoes of a consultant. You鈥檒l meet regularly with an employer-mentor as you work on real data science modeling problems. Partnering employers include:

  • Government Agencies
  • Private Laboratories
  • Research Facilities
  • Banks
  • Financial Companies
  • Schools
  • Tutoring Centers
  • Insurance Agencies
  • Hospitals

Data Science FAQ

What is a data science major?

Data science is a multidisciplinary blend of computer science, particularly algorithm development, mathematical theory, and statistical learning. It鈥檚 important for businesses, for government agencies, and for unlocking the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), which relies on vast datasets, skillfully organized and analyzed by data scientists.

Every business, government agency and school creates data and requires help in understanding it. A degree or certificate in data science provides flexibility to work in a field that motivates and interests you.

91直播视频offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Data Science in Maine which gives students the opportunity to apply their passion for mathematical modeling and computing to problems involving the analysis of data and the design of models for extracting information, making predictions, and decision-making. We also offer a Minor in Data Science.

Learn more about UNE鈥檚 Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Data Science

Why study data science?

Data science is one of the most in-demand career paths today. It is also among the highest-rating in terms of job satisfaction and compensation. Data scientists must use creative approaches in a wide range of interesting problems, creating beautiful visualizations and models which uncover useful intelligence for business, government, medicine and health care, and the sciences. Data scientists make impactful contributions in all fields because their work is essential for evidence-based decision-making.

Command the Power of Data in: Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Counterterrorism, Finance, Health Care, Insurance, Science, Marketing and Advertising, Sports Analytics

You Will Learn: Foundational Mathematics and Computing, Data Visualization, Data Mining, Machine Learning and Statistical Modeling, Database Design, Python, SQL, R, MATLAB, Tableau, Cloud-based AI, Capstone Modeling Practicum

What can you do with a data science degree?

Data science is one of the most in-demand career paths today. It is also among the highest-rating in terms of job satisfaction and compensation. According to the , data scientist jobs will grow 36% by 2031.

91直播视频students who graduate with a B.S. in Data Science have landed careers as data scientists, business analysts/intelligence specialists, computer programmers, data journalists, database administrators, healthcare analytics specialists, market research analysts, medical research consultants, web analytics specialists, and political/policy analysts.

91直播视频students can work with our Academic and Career Advising Center. It doesn鈥檛 matter if you have a clear career goal or just a general interest in a field.

Learn more about Career Advising at UNE

How much do data science majors make?

Data science careers offer high earning potential. As of September 2023, the average salary for a data science major in the U.S. was about $74,342 as reported by . Common salary breakdowns by job* according to include:

  1. Data Analyst: $71,058
  2. Computer Systems Analyst: $77,830
  3. Software Engineer: $108,608
  4. Data Engineer: $126,425
  5. Machine Learning Engineer: $146,898
*Last updated May 2023, and some careers listed above will require advanced degrees

How long is a data science degree?

The growth of big data has increased the demand for data science careers and degrees. The length of a data science degree depends on the type of degree you want to pursue. An associate's degree takes two years, a bachelor鈥檚 degree takes four years, and a master鈥檚 degree can take an additional two years. Most data science jobs require at least a bachelor's degree.

UNE鈥檚 B.S. in Data Science requires a minimum of 120 credit hours or four years of full-time study. This includes:

  • 42-46 credits of College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) core curriculum
  • 41 minimum program credits of program-required courses
  • Open electives as needed to reach 120 credits

Learn more about UNE's Data Science curriculum

How much programming is in data science?

Historically, data science positions have demanded coding skills, and most seasoned data scientists still code today. The data science field is evolving, and there are now technologies that enable individuals to carry out entire data projects without needing to write code. 

When it comes to finding a job in data science, it鈥檚 recommended that you have skills in coding. The amount of knowledge and experience you need depends on the role, project, position, and company. Python, R, and SQL are two of the most commonly used languages data scientists use.

Data science majors at 91直播视频in Maine learn foundational mathematics and computing, data visualization, data mining, machine learning and statistical modeling, database design, Python, SQL, R, MATLAB, Tableau, cloud-based AI, and capstone modeling practicum.

Learn more about UNE鈥檚 Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Data Science

Is data science a STEM degree?

Data science is considered a STEM degree. For background, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has a which is a complete list of fields of study that they consider to be science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields of study.

UNE鈥檚 Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Data Science is a major in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. These majors emphasize the importance of problem-solving and communication skills. Our programs integrate theory, technology, and experimentation, combining cutting-edge teaching practices with modern, professional techniques.

What colleges offer the best data science degree program for me?

There are many factors to consider when choosing which college or university has the best data science degree program for you.

Faculty

When selecting a data science program, assess the faculty's qualifications and research interests. Make sure their expertise and research areas align with your passion for data science and are in sync with your academic and career aspirations.

91直播视频data science students have close working relationships with faculty and industry partners, to help them prepare for an exciting career in data science. Unlike other data science programs that offer internships, we bring the employer to you through our reverse practicums, allowing you to work under the guidance of faculty and alongside an employer mentor on real industry projects.

Meet 91直播视频faculty in the School of Mathematics and Physical Science

Curriculum

When considering a data science program as a prospective college student, it's crucial to assess the curriculum to ensure it matches your interests. Investigate topics such as data analysis, machine learning, statistics, or related subjects, and inquire about internships within the data science field. 

There are numerous paths you can follow within UNE's Data Science degree program. Because data scientists are needed in virtually every field, our curriculum is flexible to allow for a minor or a double major.

The following are just some examples of the exciting courses that the Data Science major offers:

  • Data Visualization
  • Data Analysis and Modelling
  • Data Mining
  • Programming
  • Predictive Analytics
  • Database Design and SQL

Learn more about UNE鈥檚 Data Science curriculum

Career Objectives

Select a data science program that aligns with your career aspirations and goals. Explore the available resources to assist you in planning your future path.

In recent years the explosion of data in a wide range of fields has created a wealth of opportunities for data science professionals, and the demand for people with the right skills continues to grow.

Unlike typical data science programs with internships, UNE鈥檚 approach involves reverse practicums. In these practicums, we bring employers to you, providing the opportunity to collaborate on real industry projects with faculty guidance and an employer mentor. Partnering employers include:

  • Government Agencies
  • Private Laboratories
  • Research Facilities
  • Banks
  • Financial Companies
  • Schools
  • Tutoring Centers
  • Insurance Agencies
  • Hospitals

91直播视频students can work with our Academic and Career Advising Center. It doesn鈥檛 matter if you have a clear career goal or just a general interest in a field.

Learn more about Career Advising at UNE

Learning environment

Decide whether you want to stay within your state or explore opportunities in another state. Evaluate whether the student and faculty community aligns with your desire for inspiration and intellectual stimulation.

91直播视频is Maine鈥檚 largest private university. We have three unique campuses that provide diverse learning opportunities. In Maine, two campuses in Biddeford and Portland offer renowned undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Additionally, our Tangier, Morocco campus hosts a unique semester abroad program for 91直播视频students.

Learn more about UNE鈥檚 campuses and how you can visit us

In our Makerspace, 91直播视频students will use cloud-based platforms to perform sophisticated analytics for high-tech applications, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Read testimonials from 91直播视频data science students

Financial aid

Does the school you are considering offer financial aid or scholarships to help you in your education?

A 91直播视频education is affordable. Our tuition is 16% below the average tuition for private universities in New England. All incoming full-time undergraduate students at 91直播视频will receive Merit Scholarships in amounts from $5,000 to $22,000 per year.

Learn more about grants and scholarships available to students at UNE

UNE's Student Financial Services includes both Financial Aid and Student Accounts offices. Our program maximizes available institutional and federal funds. To discover ways to fund your education, reach out at sfs@une.edu or (207) 602-2342 during our Monday鈥揊riday 9 a.m.鈥3 p.m. office hours.