Prepare for Your Future with Data Science
Turn Data Into Discovery
Clemson University’s Bachelor of Science in data science combines innovation, analytical thinking and hands-on learning, preparing students to turn data into meaningful insights and solutions. The interdisciplinary program integrates statistics, mathematics and computer science with a focus area tailored to your interests, from business and engineering to health, agriculture, sports and the social sciences.
Whether you’re analyzing data to tackle complex global challenges, uncovering patterns that inform better decisions or developing algorithms that drive innovation, Clemson’s data science program equips you with the technical skills, practical experience and creative problem-solving abilities to make an impact in a data-driven world.
Graduates are prepared to pursue careers in data science and analytics, artificial intelligence, business intelligence, technology and research, as well as advanced study at leading graduate programs.
What Do Data Scientists Do?
Data science is the process of collecting, analyzing and interpreting large amounts of data to uncover patterns, make predictions and inform decisions. In today’s data-driven world, organizations rely on data scientists to transform complex information into actionable insights that drive innovation — from improving healthcare and optimizing supply chains to advancing machine learning and addressing global challenges such as sustainability.
Data scientists are problem solvers. They use statistics, algorithms, machine learning and visualization to identify patterns, answer complex questions and communicate insights in ways that both technical and non-technical audiences can understand and act on.
A Clemson Data Science Degree
Clemson’s data science degree program gives you both the theoretical foundation and the practical experience to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world. You’ll learn how to use advanced methods in data analysis, modeling and computation, while developing essential professional skills in communication, ethics and teamwork.
What Our Students Say
“Clemson’s data science program has exposed me to so many different facets of the field, which has allowed me to find what I do and do not like within the large umbrella of data science. After graduation, I want to go into machine learning or artificial intelligence within tech or finance.”
Jason ClarkeData Science Major and Artificial Intelligence MinorMathematical and Statistical Sciences
“This program has given me both the technical foundation and the collaborative, problem-solving mindset I’ll need to succeed in graduate school and the workforce. The hands-on research experience has taught me more about applying data science to real problems than coursework alone could.”
Nadia ChestnutData Science Major With Concentration in Materials Science and EngineeringMathematical and Statistical Sciences
Why pursue a data science degree?
A Clemson data science degree opens the door to one of today’s most in-demand fields. Common career fields using this degree include finance, health care, engineering, marketing, sports analytics, retail analysis and consulting.
- Clemson has one of only two data science B.S. programs in South Carolina.
- The median salary for data scientists is $112,590, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- There’s an expected 34% increase in data science jobs from 2024-2034, according to the BLS.
Find out more
For questions or more information about the Data Science degree program, contact Ellen Breazel, data science program coordinator.
Required Skills and Coursework
As a Clemson data science student, you will progress from foundational mathematics and statistics to data computer programming, algorithms and machine learning applications. You’ll learn to use data responsibly and creatively to solve problems and communicate effectively. You’ll learn data storytelling, data visualization and information design and the fundamentals of scientific writing.
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Core Mathematics Courses
- Calculus of One Variable
- Calculus of Several Variables
- Linear Algebra
- Discrete Mathematical Structures
- Linear Programming
- Statistical Foundations in Machine Learning
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Core Computer Science Courses
- Introduction to Programming in Python
- Programming Methodology
- Algorithms and Data Structures
- Software Development Foundations
- Computing, Ethics, and Global Society
- Machine Learning: Implementation and Evaluation
- Data Visualization
- Applied Data Science
- Database Management Systems
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Core Statistics Courses
- Introduction to Data Science
- Statistics for Science and Engineering
- Statistics for Science and Engineering II
- Theory of Probability
- Introduction to Statistical Computing
- Regression and Time Series Analysis
- Capstone Course
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Application Area
- Four courses in any discipline on campus
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Additional Skills
- Oral Communications Requirement
- Composition and Rhetoric
- Scientific Writing
- Data Visualization and Information Design
- Data Storytelling
- Science and Values
- Career Development
Why Choose Data Science at Clemson?
Clemson’s data science major combines academic excellence with real-world experience. You’ll study alongside expert faculty in mathematics, computing and statistics. Through collaborative research projects, internships, industry partnerships and a strong alumni network, you’ll apply what you’ve learned to real-world situations and build meaningful connections. Throughout the program, you’ll work on applied projects that tackle authentic problems. Whether analyzing optimizing manufacturing systems, studying environmental trends or analyzing sports statistics, you’ll build a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to apply data science in real-world settings.
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