The Data Science major at Stanford University is a highly interdisciplinary program that combines aspects of computer science, statistics, and domain-specific knowledge to extract insights and knowledge from data. This major is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the computational, statistical, and mathematical techniques used in data science, as well as the ability to apply these techniques to real-world problems. The Data Science major at Stanford is offered through the School of Engineering and is one of the most popular and competitive majors at the university.
Overview of the Data Science Major
The Data Science major at Stanford is a four-year undergraduate program that requires students to complete a minimum of 60 units of coursework in the major. The major is divided into three main areas of study: computer science, statistics, and domain-specific knowledge. Students are required to take a set of core courses in computer science and statistics, as well as a set of elective courses in a specific domain area, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data visualization. The major also requires students to complete a capstone project, which involves working on a real-world data science project with a team of students and a faculty advisor.
Core Courses
The core courses for the Data Science major at Stanford include:
- Introduction to Computer Science (CS 106A)
- Introduction to Probability and Statistics (STAT 60)
- Machine Learning (CS 229)
- Data Science (DATA 100)
- Database Systems (CS 145)
These courses provide students with a solid foundation in computer science, statistics, and data science, and prepare them for more advanced coursework in the major.
Elective Courses
Students in the Data Science major at Stanford can choose from a wide range of elective courses in specific domain areas, such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (CS 221)
- Natural Language Processing (CS 224D)
- Computer Vision (CS 231N)
- Data Visualization (CS 448B)
- Statistics for Data Science (STAT 200)
These elective courses allow students to specialize in a particular area of data science and gain deeper knowledge and skills in that area.
| Course | Units | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CS 106A | 5 | Introduction to computer science |
| STAT 60 | 5 | Introduction to probability and statistics |
| CS 229 | 4 | Machine learning |
| DATA 100 | 5 | Data science |
| CS 145 | 4 | Database systems |
Research Opportunities
Stanford University is a world-renowned research institution, and the Data Science major provides students with numerous opportunities to engage in research projects. Students can work with faculty members on research projects, participate in research groups, or pursue independent research projects. The university also offers a range of research programs and funding opportunities for undergraduate students, such as the Stanford Undergraduate Research Program and the Stanford Data Science Institute.
Faculty Research
The faculty members in the Data Science major at Stanford are leading researchers in their fields, with expertise in areas such as:
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Data visualization and human-computer interaction
- Natural language processing and computer vision
- Statistics and probability
- Database systems and data management
Students can work with these faculty members on research projects, gaining hands-on experience and contributing to cutting-edge research in the field.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Data Science major at Stanford have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. Some of the top career paths for data science majors include:
- Data scientist or data analyst
- Machine learning engineer
- Business intelligence developer
- Data architect
- Quantitative analyst
These careers are in high demand, with median salaries ranging from 100,000 to over 200,000 per year.
What are the admission requirements for the Data Science major at Stanford?
+To be admitted to the Data Science major at Stanford, students must meet the university’s general admission requirements, which include submitting an application, transcripts, and test scores. Additionally, students must complete a set of prerequisite courses in computer science and mathematics, and demonstrate a strong interest in data science.
What kind of research opportunities are available to Data Science majors at Stanford?
+Data Science majors at Stanford have access to a wide range of research opportunities, including working with faculty members on research projects, participating in research groups, and pursuing independent research projects. The university also offers a range of research programs and funding opportunities for undergraduate students.
What kind of career opportunities are available to graduates of the Data Science major at Stanford?
+Graduates of the Data Science major at Stanford have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, including data scientist, machine learning engineer, business intelligence developer, data architect, and quantitative analyst. These careers are in high demand, with median salaries ranging from 100,000 to over 200,000 per year.
