Data Science
Source: https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/data-science/ Parent: https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/actuarial-science/
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Data Science
Turn big data into bold discoveries. In Purdue’s data science major, you’ll learn to analyze, model and extract insight from complex data — building a foundation in statistics, computing and analytics that can be applied to healthcare, business, security and beyond.
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Program Summary
Data science is a rapidly growing field at the intersection of computer science and statistics — and Purdue’s data science major puts you right at the center of it. You’ll develop skills in statistical analysis, machine learning and computational thinking while learning how to extract insight from complex datasets. Early coursework overlaps with computer science, and you’ll later choose an emphasis in computer science, mathematics or applied statistics. A wide range of electives allows you to tailor the program toward fields like business, healthcare, security, economics or sustainability. Whether you’re building predictive models or driving innovation through analytics, this major prepares you for high-impact careers in tech, research or industry.
Quick Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science
- Location(s): West Lafayette, Indianapolis
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College/School: Science
Why Purdue?
7
Interdisciplinary sciences among U.S. public universities
Times Higher Education, 2025
Top 10
Public University in the U.S.
QS World University Rankings, 2026
Possible Careers
Our students prepare for careers in a wide range of fields where critical thinking, curiosity and a deep understanding of science are highly valued including:
- Data scientist
- Machine learning engineer
- Data analyst
- Quantitative researcher
- Health informatics specialist
- Business intelligence analyst
- Predictive modeler
**High School Course Recommendations****
You should pursue the most rigorous high school curriculum available to you. Succeeding in challenging courses will allow you to be a stronger candidate for Purdue’s competitive admission process and better prepare you for college success.
Minimum high school coursework (many applicants exceed these minimums):
- Math – 4 years
- English – 4 years
- Lab science – 3 years
- Social studies – 3 years
- World language – 2 years
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College of Science
Discover your path in Purdue’s College of Science, where curiosity meets innovation across the physical, life, mathematical and computing sciences.
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Director of Recruiting, College of Science\ (765) 494-1990\ sciencerecruiting@purdue.edu
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Experience for yourself all that Purdue has to offer with opportunities to explore in-person or virtually.
Apply
Ready to take the next step? Apply to begin your journey at Purdue in data science.
**Transfer to**** Data Science
Purdue admits to individual majors. Transfer students must meet Purdue’s overall transfer criteria, as well as any major-specific requirements. Before you apply, check the closed programs page to confirm this major is open to transfer students. If it is, refer to the information below for major-specific transfer criteria.
Admission is selective. The most qualified students are selected from the pool of applicants.
- Minimum 3.3 GPA
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Must complete 2 courses in Computer Science and one semester of college-level Calculus with a minimum grade of a B in each of the courses.
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