DATA SCIENCE CORE

Take the following courses:

DS-110  Intro to Data Science

This course introduces the student to the emerging field of data science through the presentation of basic math and statistics principles, an introduction to the computer tools and software commonly used to perform the data analytics, and a general overview of the machine learning techniques commonly applied to datasets for knowledge discovery. The students will identify a dataset for a final project that will require them to perform preparation, cleaning, simple visualization and analysis of the data with such tools as Excel and R. Understanding the varied nature of data, their acquisition and preliminary analysis provides the requisite skills to succeed in further study and application of the data science field. Prerequisite: comfort with pre-calculus topics and use of computers.

3 CreditsN 

CS-110  Computer Science I

An introductory study of computer science software development concepts. Python is used to introduce a disciplined approach to problem solving methods, algorithm development, software design, coding, debugging, testing, and documentation in the object oriented paradigm. This is the first course in the study of computer science. 

3 CreditsN,CTGES,CTGISRecommended programming experience or IT110 or IT100, IT111 or IM110 or MA103 but not necessary. 


STATISTICS

Take one of the following courses:

MA-220 Introduction to Probability & Statistics

An introduction to the basic ideas and techniques of probability theory and to selected topics in statistics, such as sampling theory, confidence intervals, and linear regression.

4 CreditsN, QS, CTGESPrerequisite: MA130

MA-205 Elementary Statistics

Introduction to traditional statistical concepts including descriptive statistics, binomial and normal probability models, confidence intervals, tests of hypotheses, linear correlation and regression, two-way contingency tables, and one-way analysis of variance.

4 CreditsN, QS, WK-SPPrerequisite: FYC-101 or EN-110 or EN-109

EB-211  Business Statistics

This course covers basic descriptive and inferential statistics, normal curve and z-score computations, and addresses hypothesis testing using Chi-Square, T-Test, ANOVA, and linear regression modelling.

3 Credits QS,S

ESS-230 Environmetrics

This course is a survey of the various visual, statistical, and modeling approaches commonly used in the analysis of environmental data. The course covers: (1) visual literacy from exploratory data inquisition to poster creation; (2) elementary group comparison such as t-test and ANOVA and their non-parametric analogs;(3) basic systems modeling; and (4) regression modeling techniques based on the generalized linear model framework.

3 CreditsN, QS, CTGES, CTGISPrerequisites: Sophomore standing and permission of the instructor.

ESS-309 Econometrics

A first course in econometrics with forays into regression, optimization, and modeling.

2 CreditsN, QPrerequisites: Introductory economics course.

SW-215  Integrated Research Methods & Stats II

The second part of an integrated course sequence applying the scientific process to the fields of Social Work and Sociology, emphasizing key research concepts, commonly used quantitative and qualitative methods, and the ability to communicate effectively about research with written and verbal skills. The course teaches students not only to conduct research but also to consume and utilize research.

3 CreditsS 

PY-366 Research Methods & Statistics

Introduces the methodological skills necessary for conducting research and for becoming a better consumer of psychological science. Students will learn to think critically about claims and accurately summarize primary source articles about behavior. Students will learn statistical concepts commonly used to evaluate data, how to effectively communicate research, and make ethical judgments informed by APA ethical standards.

4 Credits Prerequisite: PY-101

BI-305 Biostatistics

This course deals centrally with quantitative and statistical methodology in the biological sciences. It includes experimental design and the conventions of generating, analyzing, interpreting and presenting biological data. Counts as a math course for graduate and professional school requirements.

4 CreditsN, QS, CTGESPrerequisites: BI106 or ESS100


ADDITIONAL COURSES

Take twelve credits from the following courses:

BI-314 Talk Nerdy to Me

Talk Nerdy To Me is a course designed for anyone interested in more effectively communicating scientific ideas to non-specialists. Students will write short popular science articles, illustrate comics, create video explanations, and refine oral presentation skills to present recent research advances or their own research data. All student output will be produced for public consumption and outreach online and in public formats. There will be a strong emphasis on peer evaluation and review.

3 Credits

BI-405  Bioinformatics Fundamentals

Bioinformatics is the science of collecting and analyzing complex biological data. It is an interdisciplinary field that develops and applies methods and software tools for understanding biological data. 

4 CreditsN,CTGESPre-req: BI-101 or BI-105, BI-102 or BI-106, CH-142, CH-143, CH-144, CH-145

CS-315  Algorithms and Analysis

The study and analysis of algorithms, their complexity and supporting data structures. Topics include searching, sorting, mathematical algorithms, tree and graph algorithms, the classes of P and NP, NP-complete and intractable problems, and parallel algorithms. 

4 CreditsCW,NPrerequisites: CS240 and MA116. 

CS-341 Scientific Computing

This course begins with an introduction to fundamental concepts in Scientific Computing and concludes with domain-specific projects in areas like Bioinformatics, Data Science, Physical Systems, and Numerical Analysis. The common content will include command-line interfaces (Linux), programming languages (Jupyter/Python), numerical and graphical libraries (NumPy and Matplotlib), version-control (Git/Github), and relational databases (SQL).

3 CreditsNPre-Req: CS-110

CS-370  Database Management Systems

Focuses on concepts and structures necessary to design and implement a database management system. Various modern data models, data security and integrity, and concurrency are discussed. An SQL database system is designed and implemented as a group project. 

3 CreditsN,CTGISPrerequisites: CS110. 

IM-242  Info Visualization

This course considers the various aspects of presenting digital information for public consumption visually. Data formats from binary, text, various file types, to relational databases and web sites are covered to understand the framework of information retrieval for use in visualization tools. Visualization and graphical analyses of data are considered in the context of the human visual system for appropriate information presentation. Various open-source and commercial digital tools are considered for development of visualization projects. 

3 CreditsN,CTDH,CTGESPrerequisite: IT 110, IT 111, IM 110, DS 110, or CS 110 or permission. 

DS-210  Data Acquisition

Students will understand how to access various data types and sources, from flat file formats to databases to big storage data architecture. Students will perform transformations, cleaning, and merging of datasets in preparation for data mining and analysis. 

3 CreditsNPRE-REQ: CS 110 and DS 110. 

DS-352  Machine Learning

This course considers the use of machine learning (ML) and data mining (DM) algorithms for the data scientist to discover information embedded in datasets from the simple tables through complex and big data sets. Topics include ML and DM techniques such as classification, clustering, predictive and statistical modeling using tools such as R, Matlab, Weka and others. Simple visualization and data exploration will be covered in support of the DM. Software techniques implemented the emerging storage and hardware structures are introduced for handling big data. 

3 CreditsNPrerequisite: CS-110, DS-110, and an approved statistics course from this list: MA-205, MA-220, BI-305, PY-214, or EB- 211. 

DS-375  Big Data

This course considers the management and processing of large data sets, structured, semi-structured, and unstructured. The course focuses on modern, big data platforms such as Hadoop and NoSQL frameworks. Students will gain experience using a variety of programming tools and paradigms for manipulating big data sets on local servers and cloud platforms. 

3 CreditsNPrerequisites: DS 110 Intro to Data Science and CS 370 Database Management Systems 

DS-485 Data Science Research

Under the direction of their advisor, students will complete an original, independent research project in Data Science. A written report and oral presentation summarizing their research experience and results will be prepared. This course is a requirement for students who are candidates for distinction in Data Science. Instructor permission required.

1-5 Credits

MA-321 Multivariate Statistics

A class in multivariate statistical techniques including non-parametric methods, multiple regression, logistic regression, multiple testing, principle analysis.

3 CreditsN, QSPrerequisites: MA-130 or MA 160; an introductory statistics course from the following list: BI-305, EB-211, ESS-230, ESS-309, MA-205, MA-220, PY-366, or SW-215

MA-325 Statistical Consulting

The participating students will receive training during the semester in consulting on statistical problems and to assist in collaborative efforts with faculty and/or staff on client-partnered projects that are pre-determined. The semester-long project provides the student with both real work experience in the field of statistics and a project-based learning experience in partnership with the client. May be taken multiple times for credit.

3 CreditsN, QS, CW, SW-LE Prerequisite: Take one of the following:  BI-305 EB-211 ESS-230 ESS-309 MA-205 MA-220 PY-361 or SW-215. Also take FYC-101 or EN-110 or EN-109.

MA-341 Scientific Computing

This course begins with an introduction to fundamental concepts in Scientific Computing and concludes with domain-specific projects in areas like Bioinformatics, Data Science, Physical Systems, and Numerical Analysis. The common content will include command-line interfaces (Linux), programming languages (Jupyter/Python), numerical and graphical libraries (NumPy and Matplotlib), version-control (Git/Github), and relational databases (SQL).

3 CreditsNPre-Req: CS-110

ESS-330 Geographical Information Systems

This course is an introduction to a Geographical Information System (GIS), and the course objective is that students gain a basic, partial understanding of GIS concepts, technical issues, andapplications using Arc View GIS. It encourages thinking in spatial context. A diverse array of hands-on computer applicationsand projects are used to understand how geographical data can be analyzed spatially. Students explore analysis techniques in a problem basis learning approach using small team projects.

4 CreditsCTGISNote: A special course fee is assessed. Prerequisite: ESS100.

ESS-335 Quantitative Ecology

The goal of the course is to advance student understanding of a broad range of numerical and graphical techniques used to analyze complex data sets encountered in the environmental sciences. Students will learn the context to properly apply these techniques to address research questions. The purview is ecological, but is applicable to all other quantitative endeavors. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding, relevant applications, and proper interpretation rather than gory, though interesting, statistical theory. Students will apply the R language and environment for statistical computing to tailor analyses to specific circumstances. 

4 CreditsQS(Lec/Lab; 4 cr hr; Spring years; pre-req ESS 110, ESS 230-Environmetrics, or consent)

IT-307  Project Management

This course reviews and applies project management processes and techniques such as project life cycle, project selection methods, work breakdown instructions, network diagrams, cost estimates, and more. 

3 CreditsS,CW,CS,SW-LEPrerequisites: IT210 and Jr or Sr standing or permission of the instructor. Corequisite: IT308. 

IT-308  Innovations for Industry I

This lab will require a team of students to function as a project development team for an IT- related business. The students will be exposed to many aspects of systems analysis, design, development and implementation, as well as project management tools and techniques. Students will be required to learn in a just-in-time mode using on-demand educational resources. 

1 CreditsSPrerequisites: IT210 and Jr or Sr standing or by permission of the instructor. Corequisite: IT307. Note: This course will have appointed class times for projects other than the times listed on the schedule. 

(OR) Upper-level research in any other field with sufficient data science content (instructor permission required)


Secondary Emphasis Credit Total = 18

Six credits must be at the 300/400-level.  Any course exception must be approved by the advisor and/or department chair.