B.S Data Science

Course overview

A data scientist uses computing skills for collecting, shaping, storing, managing, and analyzing data to allow for data driven decision making. Data science majors complete coursework in a data-rich domain area of their choosing then apply computational algorithms and machine learning techniques to data from that discipline in their capstone experience

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Why should I choose this major?
  • Data science experts are needed in virtually every job sector, from government security to dating apps.
  • The high demand for data science skills continues to grow and data scientists are in short supply. The HPU undergraduate data science
    program prepares students to embrace this opportunity.
  • The HPU data science curriculum incorporates the latest trends in data skills and is guided by the new ABET data science accreditation criteria.
Degree Requirements

Core Requirements (36 credits)
CSC 1710. Introduction to Programming (4)
CSC 1720. Advanced Programming (4)
CSC 2212. Database Systems (4)
CSC 2342. Discrete Structures (4)
CSC 2410. Computer Systems (4)
CSC 2710. Advanced Data Structures with Algorithm
Development (4)
CSC 4510. Programming Language Design and Translation (4)
CSC 4710. Software Engineering (4)
MTH 1410. Calculus I or MTH 1415. Mathematics for
Engineers I (4)

 

Mathematics Requirements (8 credits)
Select two courses from the following list:
MTH 1420. Calculus II (4) or MTH 1425. Mathematics for
Engineers II (4)
MTH/PHY 2050. Mathematical Methods in Engineering and
Physics I (4)
MTH 2310. Linear Algebra (4)
MTH 2410. Calculus III (4)
MTH 3150. Probability (4)
MTH 3810. Combinatorics (4)
MTH/CSC 3910. Numerical Methods (4)*
STS 2910. Introduction to Statistical Analysis (4)
STS 3005. Probability and Statistics for Engineers (4)

 

Science Requirement (8 credits)

Select two courses from the following list:
BIO 1500/1501. Principles of Cell Biology/Lab (4)
BIO 2001/2001L. Principles of Genetics/Lab (4)*
CHM 1010/1011. General Chemistry I/Lab (4)
CHM 1020/1021. General Chemistry II/Lab (4)**
PHY 2010/2010L. Fundamentals of Physics I/Lab (4)
PHY 2020/2020L. Fundamentals of Physics II/Lab (4)***
PHY 2100. Electronics (4)
PHY 2200. Computational Physics (4)***
*BIO 1500/1501 is a prerequisite for this course.
**CHM 1010/1011 is a prerequisite for this course.
***PHY 2010/2010L and CSC 1710 are prerequisites for this course

 

Electives (16 credits)
Select any four CSC elective courses at the 2000-level or
above, at least one of which is at the 4000-level (excluding
CSC 4910 and CSC 4920).

 

Computer Science majors who wish to graduate with
departmental honors must (a) complete the courses required for the
B.S. in Computer Science, and (b) complete CSC 4910 and CSC
4920.

Potential Domain Areas

Data science majors complete coursework in a data-rich domain area of their choosing then apply computational algorithms and machine learning techniques to data from that discipline in their capstone experience. Potential domain areas include:

  • Physics and astronomy
  • Biology and neuroscience
  • Chemistry and biochemistry
  • Exercise science
  • Economics
  • Healthcare management
  • Finance and accounting
Computer Recommendations

While classroom and lab computers are always available for student use, students often prefer to have their own laptop. If you already have a serviceable laptop, don’t feel like you need to run out and purchase a new one. Check the recommendations below to see if your current computer will do the job. Note that tablets and other lightweight, bare-bones types of computers might be great for taking notes, but they may not be sufficient for actually doing your classwork.

 

Laptop computer recommendations: 
• Operating System: macOS 10.13 or newer, or Windows 10 (but not RT or S versions) or newer 
• Processor: Intel Core i5 Processor or higher 
• Memory: 8-16 GB of RAM 
• Storage: 256 GB or larger 
• Network: 802.11ac Wi-Fi wireless networking 
• Other: Internal or external webcam, carrying case, headphones, microphone 

 

An industry-standard Antivirus program is highly recommended (at least a starter subscription is typically included with a new computer). All students have access to Microsoft Office 365 and 1TB of online storage through the university, and networked printers are widely available, so don’t feel compelled to spend on lots of extra hardware/software. 

Again, if you have questions, please ask! Note that the university provides links to some manufacturer’s sites for student discounts. If interested, feel free to visit www.highpoint.edu/welcomeweek/computer-purchases. 

 

Pre-Requisite Map

This map illustrates how the courses are related to each other, and which courses are required for your later Data Science courses.

 

Meet Kelsey Quinn

Majors: Computer Science and Mathematical Economics

Quinn will join Bloomberg as a market data analyst on the fixed income team following graduation. Using her computer science and economic background she will automate systems and more efficiently read data. She will also be analyzing data using Python and SQL.

Course Outcomes

Course objectives

Prepare graduates for a career as a computing professional. Graduates will be able to:

 

    1. Successfully practice computer science to provide solutions to challenging problems in their profession by applying computer science theory and principles.
    2. Communicate effectively, work collaboratively and exhibit high levels of professionalism and ethical responsibility.
    3. Achieve personal and professional success with awareness and commitment to their ethical and social responsibilities, both as individuals and in team environments.
Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the program will have an ability to:

 

  1. Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
  3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
  4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
  5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
  6. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
Student Success

HPU students are participating in the following computer science programs:

 

  • 1 of 10 U.S. participants in research experience at the University of Michigan REU at CERN Summer Program
  • First place prize winner at the ACM Mid-Southeast Conference with a paper presentation titled, “Improving the Ranking System for the U.S. Census Bureau”
  • Internship at Gilbarco Veeder-Root Research experience at the University of Central Florida funded by the National Science Foundation focused on Computer Vision
  • Designed and built an autonomous golf cart alongside HPU Innovator in Residence and Apple Computer co-founder, Steve Wozniak

Career Opportunities

"HPU helped me build confidence in my professional abilities, which helped me succeed after I graduated."
Alex Palmer, '13
Advanced Development Senior Engineer, Apple

Potential occupations include:

  • Data scientist
  • Machine learning scientist
  • Business intelligence developer
  • Applications architect
  • Enterprise architect

Potential employers include:

  • Data processing/Management firms
  • Computer systems design firm
  • Software Developers
  • Contract and temporary employers
  • Most areas of business, government and non-governmental organizations

 

Explore other Programs

Get in Touch

csdept@highpoint.edu

One University Parkway High Point, NC 27268

+1 1300 0909 123