Program Overview
A major in data science at the University of Kansas prepares students to pursue careers in data science and related fields through a multidisciplinary curriculum focused on analytical problem solving, computing, and data interpretation.
Housed within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Data Science combines core coursework in data science with concentration areas that allow students to explore how data-driven approaches apply across disciplines.
The data science major emphasizes both technical development and interdisciplinary learning. Students build proficiency in mathematics, statistics, programming, data management, and communication while learning how to analyze and interpret complex datasets. Coursework helps students develop the technical and analytical foundation needed for careers in a workforce increasingly shaped by data-informed decision making.
Students completing a bachelor’s degree in data science explore how data science can be applied across a range of disciplines and industries. KU’s program allows students to select from concentration areas that connect data science to related fields and practical applications.
KU’s bachelor’s in data science offers the following concentrations:
- Social Sciences
- Behavioral Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Mathematics
Students interested in developing technical and analytical expertise often explore questions such as “Is data science a good major?” and “What can you do with a data science degree?” Because data science supports decision making across industries, graduates may pursue opportunities in research, technology, healthcare, business, education, and analytics-focused roles.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Data Science, BSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s in Data Science is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and researchBachelor’s in Data Science Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the bachelor’s degree in data science will demonstrate the ability to apply technical, analytical, and communication skills to data-focused challenges. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Solve analytical problems using mathematics and statistics
- Develop, deploy, and use computational programs for data science applications
- Apply skills in data processing, management, documentation, and replicability
- Communicate data-driven insights effectively in visual, written, and oral forms
- Demonstrate an understanding of ethical principles related to data management and analysis
- Analyze information from a multidisciplinary perspective to support informed decision-making
Students also develop data science skills in coding, programming, analytical reasoning, communication, and collaboration across disciplines.
What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Data Science
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in data science are prepared for careers in industries that rely on data analysis, computational problem solving, and evidence-based decision making. The technical and analytical skills developed through the program apply across organizations focused on research, business, healthcare, technology, education, and public-sector analysis.
Common career paths for data science majors include roles in:
- Data analysis
- Statistical analysis
- Computational research
- Business and organizational analytics
- Healthcare and health data analysis
- Data management and visualization
- Technology and programming support
According to workforce insights from Lightcast, professionals with backgrounds in data science are employed across industries that depend on data interpretation, predictive analysis, and technical problem solving.
Students researching the data science job outlook often explore careers that combine analytical reasoning, communication skills, and technical expertise. Because organizations increasingly rely on large datasets to guide decisions, demand for professionals with data science skills continues to grow across sectors.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The University of Kansas offers competitive tuition rates and a variety of financial aid opportunities to support students pursuing a major in data science. Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study options are available to eligible students.
To learn more about tuition costs, scholarships, and financial aid resources, visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
All students interested in the data science major must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR
- An official ACT score of at least 21 or an official SAT score of at least 1060 with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferrable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Opportunities include:
- Multidisciplinary coursework connecting data science to applied fields
- Collaborative learning experiences focused on analytical problem solving
- Coursework involving coding, programming, and data interpretation
- Research-focused learning within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Outside the classroom, students may enhance their academic experience through co-curricular involvement, including:
- Student organizations connected to computing, mathematics, and analytics
- Research and collaborative learning opportunities
- Academic and professional development programming
- Campus events and interdisciplinary engagement opportunities
Bachelor’s in Data Science Sample Courses
Students in the data science major complete coursework focused on data analysis, computation, programming, statistics, and applied problem solving.
Sample data science courses may include:
- Foundations of Data Science
- Data Management
- Introduction to Machine and Statistical Learning
- Community Data Labs
- Intermediate Statistics in Psychological Research
- Computational Data Science
Course offerings may vary by pathway and semester. Students should consult the KU Catalog for the most current course requirements and degree information.
Bachelor’s in Data Science Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.
Is data science a good major?
Data science can be a strong option for students interested in mathematics, statistics, coding, programming, analytics, and problem solving. Because organizations across industries rely on data-informed decisions, graduates may pursue careers in a wide variety of fields.
What data science skills will students develop?
Students develop data science skills in analytical reasoning, programming, computational problem solving, statistical analysis, data management, communication, and ethical data practices.
What can you do with a data science degree?
Graduates may pursue careers involving data analysis, computational research, business analytics, healthcare data interpretation, technology support, and related analytical fields.
What is the data science job outlook?
The demand for professionals with data science skills continues to grow as organizations increasingly rely on data analysis and evidence-based decision making across industries.
How long does it take to become a data scientist?
Many students begin preparing for careers in data science by completing a four-year bachelor’s degree program. Some graduates continue into advanced study or specialized technical training depending on their career goals.