Data Science, B.S.

Data Science, B.S.

Program Overview

PLNU’s Data Science B.S. equips you to transform raw data into insight through mathematics, statistics, and computing. With flexible specializations in biology, finance, psychology, or sports science, this program combines technical rigor with practical applications.

Why Choose Data Science at PLNU?

Career-Ready Capstone Experiences

Every student completes a capstone project through an internship, machine learning project, or research project, applying classroom learning in a professional setting.

Preparation for Industry

Develop skills in computing, statistics, machine learning, and mathematical modeling, with applications in finance, healthcare, psychology, and sports science.

Infographic in PLNU colors that is split down the middle with info. Left side reads, "Preparation for Industry: Students learn statistics, machine learning, and mathematical modeling that is applied to a variety of areas such as finance and sport science." Right side reads, "Career-Ready Credentials: With Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) course approval by the Society of Actuaries, we shorten the path to actuarial certification."

Career-Ready Credentials

With VEE (Validation by Educational Experience) course approval by the Society of Actuaries, our program shortens the path to actuarial certification.

Personalized Mentorship

Small classes, individualized faculty advising, and department-hosted career events provide one-on-one support for academic and career success.

Faith + Future Focus 

As you grow in technical expertise, you'll also be challenged to explore how your work in data science can serve people, honor your calling, and make a meaningful impact. 

Community Connections

The department maintains strong connections with local organizations, offering students access to internships, entry-level job opportunities, and hands-on projects, including a partnership with the nearby Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific.

What You’ll Study

Alongside a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, programming, databases, and data management, students choose a specialization in one of the following areas:

  • Biology
  • Finance
  • Psychology
  • Sports Science

Graduates of PLNU’s Data Science program pursue careers in:

  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Actuarial Science
  • Finance and Business Strategy
  • Sports Science and Performance Analytics
  • Graduate Study in Data Science, Statistics, or Applied Mathematics

With its unique blend of mathematics, computing, and applied problem-solving, PLNU’s Data Science B.S. prepares you to transform data into solutions that make an impact.

Algorithms in Action

What are the Most In-Demand Jobs of the Future?
Catherine Crockett Weaves Together Ethics and Excitement in Future Mathematicians

The Logic Behind the Learning

Videos (2)
Articles (3)
What are the Most In-Demand Jobs of the Future? Discover the most in-demand careers shaping tomorrow’s workplace. Learn what industries and jobs will experience the most growth in the future. Discover
Catherine Crockett Weaves Together Ethics and Excitement in Future Mathematicians For PLNU professor Catherine Crockett it’s never too early to stress the importance, variability, and excitement of mathematics and computer science. Discover
Strengthened to Serve: Chris Lynch For Chris Lynch, PLNU has been a place to grow both his faith and his leadership. A data science major, rugby captain, and leader of Ministry with Mexico, Lynch finds purpose in serving others. Discover

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Data Science, B.S. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Career Opportunities

In our increasingly data-driven society, well-equipped data scientists are in growing demand. A degree in data science can open the door to a variety of careers across many desirable industries, places where analytical abilities, mathematical modeling, and computation skills are valued assets. PLNU data science alumni have found success in the workforce through opportunities including actuarial work at Fidelity Investments, model building at SPAWAR, research at General Atomic, and cryptography at the NSA, just to name a few. Other alumni have gone on to graduate programs in mathematics and statistics.

What can you do with a data science degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for data science skills will drive a 27.9% rise in employment through 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The following are examples of positions people with degrees in data science may hold: 

Actuary

Actuaries analyze statistical data such as mortality, accident, sickness, disability, and retirement rates to forecast risk and financial liabilities. They work in insurance, consulting, finance, government, and other sectors where risk assessment is essential.

  • Median Pay: $125,770/year
  • Number of Jobs: 33,600
  • Job Outlook (2024–2034): +22%
  • Employment Change: +7,300 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Data Scientist/Research Scientist

Computer & Information Research Scientists (often referred to as Data Scientists or similar roles) explore new computing technologies, develop algorithms, and use large‑scale data to advance computing, AI, machine learning, and problem solving.

  • Median Pay: $140,910/year
  • Number of Jobs: 40,300
  • Job Outlook (2024–2034): +20%
  • Employment Change: +7,900 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Financial Engineer

A Financial Engineer applies mathematical models, statistical analysis, and programming techniques to solve complex problems in finance, such as risk management, investment strategies, and pricing of financial derivatives. They use advanced quantitative methods to optimize portfolios, analyze market trends, and create financial products. Financial Engineers can work for investment banks, hedge funds, insurance companies, or as consultants, with opportunities in both large financial institutions and boutique firms specializing in financial technology.

  • Median Pay: $101,910/year
  • Number of Jobs: 429,000
  • Job Outlook (2024–2034): +6%
  • Employment Change: +25,100 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Stories Hidden in the Data

"Faith in Numbers"

Visualizing the Invisible

Quotes (1)
Pictures (5)
Faith in Numbers
"I chose data science and worked at my mathematical, statistical, computer science skill sets to serve in the talents God gave me."
Chris Lynch Data Science B.S.

Department Faculty

Get Involved

Student smiles while seated behind a computer

MICS Internships

Internships are semester-long paid or unpaid corporate experiences in the fields of mathematics, computer science, and computer information systems.

A student smiles while working in group in class.

Become an Actuary

Actuaries use a combination of mathematics, statistics, and economics to forecast risk and help organizations in many different sectors plan for the future.

A student does classwork using a calculator.

MICS Service Learning

Service Learning is a semester-long course in which students will work with a team on a project that provides service for a nonprofit organization.