Program Overview

Introduction to the Statistics and Data Science Major

The Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Data Science is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the skills to execute all stages of data analysis, from data acquisition and exploration to the application of statistics and machine learning methods. This major prepares students to think critically about relevant ethical and legal issues, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and misrepresentation of findings.

Program Overview

The curriculum is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles of and tools for conducting reproducible data science. Students are exposed to a wide range of courses that enable them to enter the workforce directly or pursue specialized graduate training as statisticians and data scientists.

Entry-Level Requirements

To declare a degree and major in Statistics and Data Science, students must receive passing grades in key courses, including:

• Math: Differential and Integral Calculus (M 408C)/Sequence, Series and Multivariable Calculus (M 408D)
• Computer Science: Elements of Computers and Programming (CS 303E)
• Statistics and Data Sciences: Introduction to Data Science (SDS 313) and Statistical Thinking (SDS 315)

Breadth Requirement

SDS majors must take at least 12 hours, including at least six upper-division hours, in a single field of study other than SDS from elsewhere at the university.

Examples of Courses

Students take additional courses in SDS and other disciplines, such as:

• Probability and Statistical Inference
• Intermediate and Advanced Statistical Methods
• Practical Machine Learning Statistics
• Case Studies in Data Science
• Elements of Databases
• Differential/Integral/Multivariable Calculus
• Matrices and Matrix Calculations or Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory

Conclusion

The Statistics and Data Science major at the University of Texas at Austin is a rigorous and comprehensive program that prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities in data science and statistics. With its strong focus on critical thinking, ethical considerations, and practical applications, this major is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in these fields.