TRU Science

Data Science

Data science is a broad field that encompasses the generation and analysis of data. Many industries are increasingly relying on data, generating exciting new career opportunities. Depending on the application, this can require advanced knowledge of networks and computing systems, or can require advanced knowledge of analytical methods such as statistical machine learning, and in many instances knowledge of both.

Bachelor of Science in Data Science

The BSc major in data science is a four-year degree program designed to meet the needs of an increasingly relevant field. This major — jointly offered by the departments of Computing Science and Mathematics and Statistics — provides students with an excellent foundation to pursue work in data science.

Students may coordinate this major to an application discipline by discussing academic and career plans with the data science program coordinator. The major shares many common core courses in Years 1 and 2 of the computer science and mathematics majors.

Similar majors

It’s likely that if you’re interested in the data science major, you’ve considered majoring in computing science or mathematics as well. The upper level courses are a curated blend of courses from computing science, statistics and mathematics. Fortunately, the first two years of the three programs are similar to those of the majors in computing science and mathematics. You can easily take a set of courses in years 1 and 2 that leaves your options open until you're ready to commit to a major in year 3.

If you are thinking of majoring in computing science but want to leave your options open for data science, make sure that you also take other the lower level other MATH requirements (MATH 2110).

If you are thinking of majoring in mathematics but want to leave your options open for data science, make sure that you take the other lower level COMP requirements (COMP 1110, COMP 2920, and COMP 2230).

Master of Science in Data Science

The upper level courses required in this program satisfy all of the required courses and recommended courses prescribed by the master’s program. Consult the master’s program for more information.