Overview

The Data Science programme at Western Michigan University provides students with a robust foundation in the rapidly evolving field of big data analytics. This interdisciplinary major is delivered through a unique collaboration between the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Statistics. Students develop the technical expertise required to navigate the intersection of statistical modelling and advanced computing.

The curriculum is designed to address the global shortage of qualified data professionals by equipping graduates with versatile analytical tools. Participants engage with modern technologies and methodologies used to process, store, and interpret vast datasets across various sectors.

Why Data Science at Western Michigan University?

Western Michigan University was a pioneer in this field, launching the first bachelor degree of its kind in the state to meet rising industry demands. The programme benefits from the combined resources of two distinct departments, offering a balanced education in both theoretical statistics and practical computer science. This dual approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of how data is managed and utilised in the modern world.

Students gain significant practical experience through senior design projects where they work in groups to solve real-world problems. These capstone courses often involve collaboration with local businesses or research teams, providing valuable networking opportunities. Such hands-on engagement allows students to apply their classroom learning to practical scenarios involving the handling and analysis of large-scale data sets.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 20525 per year
National fee: USD 20525 per year
Local fee: USD 16449 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of a statistics core and a computer science core, totalling 45 credit hours. Modules may include:

Statistics using R
R Programming for Data Science
Storage and Retrieval of Big Data
Machine Learning
SAS
Regression Analysis
Applied Data Mining
Computer-based Data Analysis
Senior Design

Careers with Data Science

Graduates are uniquely qualified to fill the critical shortage of data scientists in industries such as marketing, medicine, and environmental studies. The ability to analyse big data is increasingly essential for decision-makers in both government and scientific sectors. Common career paths involve roles focused on data mining, systems design, and statistical analysis within diverse corporate and research environments.

The programme also serves as a strong foundation for further academic pursuits. Students who excel in their undergraduate studies are well-prepared to transition into advanced master's programmes in either computer science or statistics. This pathway allows for further specialisation in high-level data research and technical leadership roles.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

R Programming for Data Science
Storage, Retrieval, and Processing of Big Data
Machine Learning
Software Systems Development: Requirements and Design
Software Systems Development: Implementation, Testing
Data Analysis Using R
Mathematical Statistics Using R
Statistical Computing
Regression Analysis
Big Data Analysis Using Python

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Kalamazoo, United States

Disciplines

Data Science & Big Data View 470 other Bachelors in Data Science & Big Data in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Copy of passport identification page

Proof of English language proficiency

Complete high school or post-secondary education transcripts

$100 non-refundable application fee

Proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at WMU according to estimated cost of attendance

ACT or SAT Scores

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20525 USD / year

≈ 20525 USD / year
Out-of-State

20525 USD / year

≈ 20525 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16449 USD / year

≈ 16449 USD / year

Additional Details

Local Summer Tuition: $4,112; International Summer Tuition: $5,140

Living costs

Kalamazoo

United States

1000 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Data Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Kalamazoo

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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