Data Science

This program is designed to help you thrive in our dynamic, data-centric world through a mix of theory and hands-on training that will prepare you for a successful career in data science or further academic endeavors.

Industry-ready skills

In today’s data-driven digital age, our program will equip you with the essential skills you need to meet the increasing demand for data expertise across many industries.

You’ll gain comprehensive skills in data analysis — ranging from data collection and management to deriving actionable insights using cutting-edge analytics and visualization techniques. Our coursework, embedded with real-world applications, empowers you to proficiently navigate and analyze extensive, complex datasets across a variety of industries such as healthcare, finance, and beyond.

The curriculum stays current with emerging methodologies and contemporary data challenges. Through class projects, you won’t just learn to identify patterns — you’ll also hone your ability to communicate results in ways that drive informed and strategic decisions.

Get hands-on experience

You’ll gain practical knowledge and skills through course projects using real-world datasets from various industries. These experiences will lead to a capstone project where you will independently tackle a substantive data analytics challenge, demonstrating your ability to apply what you’ve learned to address practical business and societal challenges.

Ethical focus

At the heart of our program is a strong commitment to ethical data practices. We prepare you to be not just an analyst, but a principled steward of data, emphasizing the importance of privacy and responsible data use.

Be prepared for graduate studies

For students considering advanced academic pursuits, our curriculum paves the way for specialized graduate programs in fields like computational analytics, AI, and data mining. Under the guidance of our faculty, we champion independent research and intellectual curiosity. This prepares you to grapple with complex challenges and pioneer groundbreaking data science research.

To save time and money on your master’s degree, choose our 4+1 Option to get a head start on earning an MS in Information Technology or an MS in Quantitative Economics. This pathway allows you to delve deeper and specialize in fields like analytics, cybersecurity, economics, and more, providing a streamlined and cost-effective route to advanced expertise and career readiness.

What makes our data science program unique?

Data science and analysis is a rapidly growing field, and there are many academic programs being created in this area. Here’s why Cal Lutheran’s data science major stands out:

• Early exposure to data science — dive into data science from day one with our introductory courses, designed for first-year students and requiring no prerequisites.
• Balance and synthesis — experience a holistic blend of mathematics, statistics, and computer science. Engage with discrete mathematics and machine learning, bridging the gap between abstract concepts and practical computer models.
• Flexibility — by choosing electives and an optional minor, you can tailor your degree to your interests and goals.
• Ethical groundings — an emphasis on ethics connects to Cal Lutheran’s mission to educate leaders for a global society who are strong in character and judgment.

Want to learn more?

For more information about the Data Science program, please contact datascience@callutheran.edu.

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Programs

Offered as a major (BS) and a minor.

Recommended Minors

Want to add even more value to your degree? Consider one of these minors to gain a unique combination of skills and perspectives.

• Computer Science
• Mathematics
• Public Health
• Applied Scientific Computing
• Business Administration
• Economics