Program Overview

Introduction to the Data Science Program

The University of Waterloo introduced two Data Science programs in September 2017: the BCS (Data Science) and the BMath (Data Science). The BCS (Data Science) is administered by the School of Computer Science, while the BMath (Data Science) is administered by Statistics.

Program Details

The BCS Data Science is a standalone program and cannot be combined with any of the specializations offered to the BCS or BMath CS programs.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible to apply to the BCS Data Science program, students must:

• be enrolled in a Computer Science program
• have completed or be in the process of taking STAT 231

Degree Requirements

Similar to Computer Science majors, BCS Data Science students must complete the following to graduate:

1. Complete the degree requirements as outlined in the relevant Undergraduate Calendar, including
   • completing the Math Undergraduate Communication Requirement,
   • Breadth and Depth,
   • graduating in good standing.
2. Review the graduation checklist and apply to graduate.

Program Structure

The official degree requirements are in the University Calendar, but there are handy checklists that summarize the requirements.

Comparison to Computer Science

BCS Data Science can be compared to Computer Science in terms of degree requirements and structure.

Research and Enrichment Opportunities

There are various research and enrichment opportunities available to students, including the Data Science Club (DSC) and undergraduate research assistantships.

Graduate Studies

The University of Waterloo also offers graduate programs in Data Science, with funding opportunities available.

Campus and Community

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of its work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples, and is committed to reconciliation and community building.