Data Science (DS) is an interdisciplinary program of study, housed in the Rutgers-New Brunswick (RU-NB) School of Arts and Sciences (SAS). It is offered jointly by the Departments of Computer Science (CS) and Department of Statistics (Stat) in partnership with the School of Communication and Information (SC&I), School of Engineering (SOE), and School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS).

DATA SCIENCE MAJOR:

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program will provide a comprehensive education and equip students to be proficient in the principles of computation, statistical inference, and data management.

The Bachelor of Science (BS) program will equip students with knowledge and skills in scientific, technical, critical thinking, communication, and ethical modes of inquiry.

The Data Science Minor and Certificate are designed to equip students to understand the basic principles of computation, statistical inference, and data management, and their applications in a specific domain/field. Data Science programs are open to ALL students in any RU-NB program.


 

First Semester Planning

We recommend that students register for approximately 15 credits each semester and no more than 16 credits in their first semester. Your schedule should be well-balanced and include coursework from a variety of subjects. A diverse schedule will help you begin your studies in potential majors and minors; explore a breadth of new knowledge across departments at Rutgers to meet SAS Core Curriculum learning goals; and survey broader academic interests through elective courses as you work to attain the required 120 degree credits for graduation.

Your schedule will look something like this: 

 

College Writing or English course per placement results (3 credits)

Major Exploration course (3-4 credits)

Major or Minor Exploration course (3-4 credits)Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits)

Byrne or First-Year Interest Group Seminar (FIGS) (1 credit)  

Total Credits: 15-16

 

Introductory courses recommended by faculty. Include at least one of these in your schedule:

Course Title Course Number Credits Subject on University Schedule of Classes
Data 101 01:198:142 4 Computer Science (198)
Calculus-Based Math   4 Mathematics (640)

Your first year of college is an opportunity for you to explore fields of interest to enhance your understanding of yourself, the world around you, and your main academic and career goals. Think of your schedule as including courses you must take (English, courses to explore potential majors, etc.) and courses you can take (everything else!) All courses are part of your degree - if necessary, review the components of the SAS degree on this page.

Through these degree components, you will curate your own unique educational experience - but we understand that this level of flexibility and freedom can feel overwhelming for new students. Like a recommendation based on a book or TV show you enjoyed, the information below can help you identify related courses to consider in your first semester.

Course Title Course Number Credits Subject on University Schedule of Classes

Intro to Logic

01:730:201 3 Philosophy (730

Information Technology and Informatics

04:189:103 3 Communication and Media Studies (189)

Cognitive Science: A Multidisciplinary Introduction

01:185:201 3 Cognitive Science (185)

Introduction to Ethics

01:730:107 3 Philosophy (730

The Schedule of Classes provides information about the courses being offered in a particular semester. There are literally thousands of courses offered each semester at Rutgers, and you may find it helpful to narrow down your options by looking for courses in subjects related to your potential major or minor. Use the recommendations below to find possible introductory courses in other subjects. 

To find potential courses in other subjects related to this one:

1. On the Schedule of Classes, select the current term, location "New Brunswick" and level "undergraduate". Click continue.

2. In the Search By box, click the "search multiple subjects" link. Select the following departments:

Computer Science (198)

Information Technology and Informatics (547)

Philosophy (730)

Statistics (960)

3. In Section Status, deselect Closed

4. In Level of Study, deselect 300 and 400. In general, 100 and 200 are appropriate for first-year students, 300 and 400 are often more appropriate for students with more familiarity with the subject. If you are interested in registering for a 300 or 400 level course, consult with an advisor before registering. 

Review these courses for possible inclusion in your first-semester schedule, or to consider for future semesters.

 

Additional information Beyond the Classroom

SEED2S (Student Excellence, Equity, and Diversity in Data Science) is a student support unit dedicated to empowering and enriching the lives of our diverse student population. SEED2S values equity and strives to create an inclusive campus community. Through innovative strategies, engagement opportunities, and a network of dedicated faculty and staff, SEED2S aspires to increase student persistence in data science.

Our dedicated team is readily available to address inquiries, concerns, and provide timely assistance, ensuring that you feel heard, valued, and supported. We are here to help guide you.

We are developing internships/externship opportunities, co-curricular activities, and experiential learning opportunities for all data science students.

The Data Science programs aim to cultivate a highly skilled and diverse workforce. We prepare graduates for the rapidly growing and in-demand field of data science. With a focus on employability and advancement, our programs provide a pathway to gain technical expertise and apply your skills across various fields and domains, unlocking numerous career opportunities.