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Data Science, Computer Information Systems Concentration

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Build the skills to succeed in a world driven by data and artificial intelligence.

 

From business and healthcare to sports and technology, every industry is being transformed by data and AI. At Lander, our Data Science program prepares you to be part of that transformation—equipping you with the skills to analyze data, build intelligent systems and make informed decisions that matter.

You won’t just learn theory, you’ll gain hands-on experience solving real-world problems using modern tools and technologies.

Data science and artificial intelligence are deeply connected fields. Data science focuses on collecting, managing, analyzing and interpreting data to support decision-making. Artificial intelligence builds on those data science foundations by enabling systems to learn from data, make predictions, automate tasks and support intelligent decision-making. At Lander, you’ll learn how data science and AI work together across the full problem-solving pipeline – from data collection and analysis to modeling, prediction and action.

You will also explore the ethical and responsible use of data and AI, preparing you to apply these technologies thoughtfully in real-world settings.

 

Skills That Set You Apart

Develop the in-demand skills needed to succeed in today’s data-driven, AI-powered world:

  • Analyze complex data to uncover meaningful insights
  • Program using industry-relevant tools and technologies
  • Apply statistical thinking to real-world problems
  • Build and use machine learning and AI models
  • Transform data into clear, impactful visualizations and decisions

 Apply what you learn in a capstone experience where you solve real-world problems using data science and artificial intelligence.

 

Program Goals

Graduates of Lander’s Data Science program will demonstrate:

  • The ability to apply computing techniques to collect, manage and analyze data
  • Mathematical and statistical understanding of core data science and AI algorithms
  • The ability to communicate results effectively, including through data visualization
  • The ability to apply data analysis in real-world contexts to support decision-making
  • The ability to develop machine learning and deep learning systems using large datasets
  • An understanding of ethical principles related to data science and artificial intelligence

 

Real-World Learning Experience

Data science and AI are most powerful when applied to real problems. That is why Lander’s program emphasizes hands-on, practical learning. Students work with real datasets, modern software tools and AI methods that reflect today’s workplace expectations.

Examples of real-world applications may include:

  • Using healthcare data to support better outcomes and decision-making
  • Building recommendations or prediction systems
  • Identifying patterns, trends or anomalies in business and financial data

Students also have opportunities to engage in research with faculty, expanding their experience beyond the classroom.

 

Concentrations

Choose a concentration that aligns with your interests and career goals:

  • Business Analytics – Use data and AI to drive smarter business decisions
  • Computer Information Systems – Build technical expertise in data systems and AI development
  • Mathematics – Strengthen your analytical foundation for advanced study and complex problem-solving

 

Launch Your Career in Data and AI

Data science is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying career fields in the U.S., with strong demand across industries.

With your degree from Lander, you’ll be prepared for roles such as:

  • Data scientist
  • Data analyst
  • Machine learning engineer
  • Business intelligence analyst
  • AI specialist
  • Big data engineer
  • Prompt engineer
  • Data science researcher

Opportunities span industries including healthcare, finance, technology, education, retail, sports and more.

Turn data into insight. Use AI to make an impact.

Start your journey in Data Science at Lander University today.

 

The B.S. in Data Science, Computer Information Systems Concentration is a program in the Department of Applied Computing at Lander University. Click here to learn more about the department.
The Department of Applied Computing is housed in Lander University’s College of Business and Technology. For more information on the college, click here.

 

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Note: The information below provides convenient links to some of the courses required for this degree; however, it should not be used as a course registration guide. Please refer to the official Lander University Academic Catalog for the most accurate and up-to-date program requirements.

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS1 CREDIT
HOURS
A. Core Skills

 

  ENGL 101 Writing and Inquiry I 3
  ENGL 102 Writing and Inquiry II 3
  MATH 123

Calculus and its Applications

3

B. Humanities and Fine Arts
(6 hours selected from 2 different disciplines)

6
C. Behavioral and Social Perspectives
(6 hours selected from 2 different disciplines)
6
D. Scientific and Mathematical Reasoning
  MATH 211 Statistical Methods I 3
    Approved Lab Science 4
E. Founding Documents of the United States
  HIST 111R2 United States History to 1877
OR
HIST 112R2 United States History since 1877
OR
POLS 101R2 American National Government
3
F. World Cultures 3
G. LINK 101 1
Total General Education Requirements 35

1 For approved courses see the General Education section
If you already have credit for HIST 111, do not take HIST 111R; if you already have credit for HIST 112, do not take HIST 112R; if you already have credit for POLS 101, do not take POLS 101R

 

MAJOR PROGRAM CORE REQUIREMENTS CREDIT
HOURS
CIS 120 Fundamentals of Information Systems & Information Technology 3
CIS 130 Problem Solving and Programming Methods 4
CIS 230 Computer Programming Principles I 4
CIS 234 Introduction to C/C++ Programming 1
CIS 360 Database Design 3
DSCI 130 Introduction to Data Science 3
DSCI 230 Introduction to Data Science Programming 3
DSCI 231 Data Visualization 3
DSCI 330 Big Data Analysis 3
DSCI 340 Applied Machine Learning 3
DSCI 440 Applied Deep Learning 3
DSCI 499 Data Science Capstone 3
MATH 125 Introduction to Discrete Mathematics 3
MATH 208 Applied Linear Algebra 3
MATH 213 Supervised Machine Learning 3
MATH 214 Unsupervised Machine Learning 3

 

MAJOR PROGRAM CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS CREDIT
HOURS
Select 15 hours
CIS 231: Computer Programming Principles
CIS 240: Introduction to Data Communication
CIS 250: Introduction to E-Commerce
CIS 320: Information Systems and Practice
CIS 321: Analysis and Design
CIS 498: Design and Implementation in Emerging Environments
CYBR 140: Networking Lab 
15
    
Total Major Program Requirements 64
Additional Electives
(3-9 hours must be 300- or 400-level)
21
TOTAL FOR B.S. DEGREE 120

 

  • Coursework must include at least 30 hours earned in 300 or above level courses, of which 12 hours must be in the major.
  • See the 4-year major guide for recommended order in which to take courses
  • For a complete list of Course Descriptions, please see the Academic Catalog page.