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Bachelor of Science in Data Science & Statistics

Bachelor of Science in Data Science & Statistics

On-Campus

Program

120 Credit Hours

to Graduate

Full-Time, In-State Tutition

$5,010 Per Semester

Free Books

for All Students

Manage and Analyze Complex Data Sets

Make informed operating decisions

The best decisions are data driven. Whether you are interested in driving growth or improving existing operations a degree in data science and statistics will make you an invaluable hire for any organization. The rapid increase in large, complex data sets has resulted in an ever-increasing demand for professionals who are trained to manage and analyze them. EKU is home to one of only two undergraduate programs in statistics offered in Kentucky and provides real-world experience by partnering with local industries and research through EKU’s Statistical Consulting Center.

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Career Outlook


Students in data science and statistics are preparing to enter careers which can lead them into data analysis in a variety of fields including research and development, business, healthcare, government, and education. Roles within these industries vary from designing experiments and surveys for product testing to analyzing and using data that will assist government officials inform the public of policy proposals and decisions.

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment of mathematicians and statisticians will grow 30 percent from now until 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data science and statistics prepares students for careers in data science, industry, government, and the actuarial profession, as well as for graduate study in statistics.

Job Titles Include:

  • Actuary
  • Business analyst
  • Data scientist
  • Machine learning engineer
  • Statistician

Graduates of EKU’s data science and statistics program have a competitive edge in the job market and are prepared to work in a number of private and public sectors.

Employers Include:

  • Aetna
  • United States Census Bureau
  • Catalyst Clinical Research, LLC

The Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all your career and professional development needs.

Services Include:

  • Creating/updating your resume and cover letter
  • Interviewing tips and coaching
  • Career documents review
  • Job search

Why EKU?

  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • No application fee
  • Reduced tuition for active-duty military members and their spouses
  • Fast-track opportunities for students with 80 or more credit hours
  • Generous credit transfer policy
  • Gain real-world experience by partnering with local industries and researchers through the Statistical Consulting Center (SCC)
  • Various statistical and mathematical packages are available across campus, including SAS, R, Minitab, Mathematica, and Goegebra
  • Personalized attention & high-quality learning experience
  • 3+2 Accelerated Dual Degree Option: B.S. Data Science & Statistics + M.A. Applied Mathematics

Dual Degree Option

The 3+2 B.S. in data science and statistics program offers an accelerated pathway to complete the B.S. in data science and statistics and the MS in applied mathematics degrees through 3+2 enrollment!

Benefits

  • Enroll in up to nine hours of graduate courses that will apply to both your undergraduate and graduate degree
  • Pay undergraduate tuition rates for the graduate coursework
  • Gain advanced knowledge in the desired subject area

Minors & Certificates

Select from a wide range of minors, allowing you to explore interests or make use of prior credits. Suggested minors available for this program include:

  • Actuarial Science
  • Mathematical Sciences
  • Mathematics

View the full list of minors available.

You can also choose from numerous undergraduate certificates in specialty areas that complement and enhance your major as you work toward your degree. Suggested certificates for this program include:

  • Corporate Communication

View the full list of certificates available for completion as you earn your degree.

Curriculum & Enrollment


EKU’s curriculum prepares students to think logically, solve challenging problems, and inquire about new things. Course topics include statistics, mathematics, and computer science. Integrating technology into the statistics curriculum is a priority. Various statistical and mathematical packages are available across campus, including SAS, R, Minitab, Mathematica, and Goegebra.

A minimum of 120 credits are required to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in data science and statistics.

View the degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

Students may transfer up to 90 hours of credit from accredited institutions. Please note that a minimum of 30 credit hours in this degree program must be completed at Eastern Kentucky University.

Previously earned credits must be reviewed upon admission to EKU for appropriate articulation.

All applicants must provide an application and evidence of appropriate scholastic achievement through prior educational experience.

Please note that certain degree programs have special admission requirements. Admission to the University does not mean automatic admission to all degree programs.

The completed application and all required supporting documentation must be received by the University no later than:

• August 1 for fall enrollment
• December 1 for spring enrollment
• May 1 for summer enrollment

To apply for undergraduate admission to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), submit an application at apply.eku.edu and submit your materials noted below electronically or by mail to:

Office of Admissions
Eastern Kentucky University
Whitlock Bldg. 112, CPO 54
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, KY 40475-3154.

Enrolling & Advising Information


EKU’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is committed to delivering high-quality enrollment and academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience.

Interested in enrolling? Reach out to our college enrollment counselor today.

Photo of Aida Bermudez

Aida Bermudez

College Enrollment Counselor

859-622-2902
aida.bermudez@eku.edu


Student Stories & Features

Madeline Bentsen

EKU Forensic Science Graduate
The faculty was tough and fair, they wanted me to succeed and they pushed me to think critically and logically. However, they were very understanding and cared deeply for their students. They helped to prepare me for the field of forensics and helped me strengthen my weaknesses.
photo of Brad Rich

Brad Rich

EKU Forensic Science Graduate
The thing that I feel like many people, including myself, find surprising about the program is how encompassing it is. It’s not all chemistry or biology but also public speaking and critical thinking incorporated with mock trial and capstone that truly prepare you for the field of forensic science. After graduating I realized just how well I was prepared by the faculty in my program, making the transition from education to career seamless.

Madison High

EKU Environmental and Applied Geology Graduate
My degree provided me with the knowledge I needed to get a solid start to my career. I was able to get a job with the Kentucky Geological Survey within a few months of graduating and I am thrilled to be working for them. I also took the ASBOG Fundamentals of Geology exam shortly after graduating and passed it on my first try.

Upcoming Events

Halls Open

Residence Halls Open for the Spring 2025 semester. Front desks begin normal operating hours.

Check-In Deadline

Check-in deadline for all returning and new students for spring 2025. For late return/check-in, contact our office at 859-622-1515.

News & Updates

From EKU’s Meadowbrook Farm to Case Dining Hall

Cattle and hogs are raised at Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) 720-acre Meadowbrook Farm, located less than 10 miles from campus. The meat from the livestock is then sold to EKU […]

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Contact Information

Department of Mathematics & Statistics

521 Lancaster Avenue
Wallace Building, Room 313
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-5942
Fax: 859-622-3051
mathstat@eku.edu