Program Overview

Introduction to the Department of Statistics and Data Science

The Department of Statistics and Data Science at Northwestern University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of data science.

Undergraduate Programs

The department offers several undergraduate programs, including:

• Major in Statistics
• Minor in Statistics
• Major in Data Science
• Minor in Data Science
• Combined BA (or BS)/MS Degree Program

Major in Data Science

The Major in Data Science is a comprehensive program that integrates mathematics, statistics, computer science, and other domain science courses to train specialized data scientists. The program includes:

• Data Science Major Requirements: 8 related courses and 11 major courses
• Technical and Domain Science Electives
• Ethics Elective
• Data Science Major + Closely Related major/minor
• Declaring the Major in Data Science: requires completion of 3 courses that provide experience in fundamental components of Data Science
• Honors in Data Science

The major in Data Science is designed to provide students with a strong understanding and skills in data management and integration, data structures and algorithms, data analytics and machine learning methods, data visualization and reporting, as well as a solid foundation in mathematics, statistics, and computer science.

Minor in Data Science

The Minor in Data Science is designed to provide training in data science to students with an emphasis on data analytics and visualization complementary to their major focus.

Graduate Programs

The department offers several graduate programs, including:

• PhD Program
• MS Program
• Ad Hoc MS Option for NU PhD Students

PhD Program

The PhD Program in Statistics and Data Science is designed to provide students with advanced training in statistical theory, methodology, and application.

MS Program

The MS Program in Statistics and Data Science is designed to provide students with advanced training in statistical methodology and application.

Ad Hoc MS Option for NU PhD Students

The Ad Hoc MS Option for NU PhD Students is designed to provide PhD students with the opportunity to earn an MS degree in Statistics and Data Science.

Research Areas

The department is involved in a range of research areas, including:

• Department Research
• Women in Statistics
• Groups
• Selected Books
• PhD Graduate Student Research
• Ad Hoc MS in Applied Statistics Research
• Data Science Awards

People

The department is comprised of a diverse range of faculty, staff, and students, including:

• Administrative
• Faculty
• Affiliated Faculty
• PhD Graduate Students
• Postdoctoral and Visitors
• Staff
• Emeritus Faculty
• In Memoriam

Events

The department hosts a range of events, including:

• Seminars
• Professional Development Series
• Lectures & Special Events
• Dissertation Defense Talks
• DataFest
• Past Events