Data Science at Whitman: Major and Minor Programs
Statistics and Data Science Major
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers a Statistics and Data Science major for students seeking a comprehensive and in-depth study of data-driven methods. This major builds a strong foundation in statistical theory, mathematical modeling, and computational techniques, preparing students to analyze complex data and draw meaningful conclusions across a wide range of disciplines.
Students in the major develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills for careers or graduate study in statistics, data science, and related fields. The program also emphasizes critical thinking and responsible data analysis, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with the ethical and societal dimensions of working with data.
View the full list of major requirements and courses
Data Science Minor
The Data Science minor, offered in collaboration between the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and the Department of Computer Science, is designed to provide students with a broad introduction to this emerging field at the intersection of mathematics, statistics, and computer science.
As a discipline, data science applies methods from these areas to extract insight from data, with applications across science, industry, the social sciences, the humanities, and the arts. It fits naturally within a liberal arts framework and benefits from interdisciplinary perspectives. These challenges highlight the importance of applying data science with awareness, care, and ethical responsibility.