Data Science, Minor
Data Science applies core concepts in computer science, statistics and mathematics to problems in a wide variety of fields, from physical, social, biomedical, and behavioral sciences to arts and humanities. The minor targets students with strong analytical abilities and some existing programming experience, and requires courses in statistics, data-centric programming, data management, and data analysis. It also points to courses across the University that deal with data in areas of importance to Data Science.
Data Science Minor
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Core Requirements | 4 | |
| Programming Languages and Techniques I | ||
| Applied Machine Learning 1 | ||
or STAT 4710 | Modern Data Mining | |
or CIS 5200 | Machine Learning | |
| Scalable and Cloud Computing | ||
or CIS 2450 | Big Data Analytics | |
or CIS 5450 | Big Data Analytics | |
| Engineering Probability | ||
or ESE 4020 | Statistics for Data Science | |
or STAT 4300 | Probability | |
or STAT 4310 | Statistical Inference | |
| Data Science Electives | 2 | |
| Two electives required from two of the categories below. Approval required. | ||
| Data-Centric Programming | ||
| Computational Data Exploration | ||
| Introduction to Scientific Computing | ||
| Foundations of Data Science | ||
| Statistical Computing with R 2 | ||
| Data Analytics and Statistical Computing | ||
| Statistics | ||
| Statistics for Biologists | ||
| Discrete Probability, Stochastic Processes, and Statistical Inference | ||
| Engineering Probability | ||
| Probability | ||
| Applied Probability Models in Marketing | ||
| Data Collection, Representation, Management and Retrieval | ||
| Internet and Web Systems | ||
| Database and Information Systems | ||
| Crowdsourcing and Human Computation | ||
| Analytics in Excel VBA | ||
| Sample Survey Design | ||
| Data Analysis 1 | ||
| Applied Machine Learning | ||
| Natural Language Processing | ||
| Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | ||
or CIS 5210 | Artificial Intelligence | |
| Machine Learning | ||
| Data and Analysis for Marketing Decisions | ||
| Experiments for Business Decision Making (Center Special Topic) | ||
| Predictive Analytics for Business 2 | ||
| Forecasting Methods for Management | ||
| Modern Data Mining | ||
| Applied Econometrics I | ||
| Modeling | ||
| Theory of Networks | ||
| Stochastic Processes | ||
| Total Course Units | 6 | |
- 1
Both CIS 4190/5190 and CIS 5200 cannot be taken for credit toward the minor.
- 2
STAT 4050 & STAT 4220 are 0.5 CU courses
SEAS Minor Option
Students interested in declaring a minor with SEAS should check the website of the department overseeing the minor for the requirements. Students are encouraged to reach out to the department staff if they have any questions or would like to discuss the requirements and/or their plan of completion. Students then must submit the Declare/Update Field of Study PATH form, which will go through multiple approval steps before the minor is added to the student's record.
For more information: please visit https://academics.seas.upenn.edu/ugrad/student-handbook/programs-options/minors/
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.