Data Science (BCS)

Data Science combines computing and statistics to help you make sense of data and use it to answer real-world questions. On the computer science side of the program, you will learn how to work with programming, algorithms, and data systems to collect, clean, store, and process large amounts of information. These skills allow you to handle complex datasets efficiently and build tools that turn raw data into something meaningful and usable. Starting from no assumed prior computer science or statistics knowledge, you will develop these skills through hands-on learning and practical problem solving.

Beginning in September 2017, the University of Waterloo introduced two Data Science programs: the BCS (Data Science) and the BMath (Data Science). The BCS (Data Science) is administered by the School of Computer Science and questions regarding the BCS (Data Science) program should be referred to the CS advisors. The BMath (Data Science) is administered by Statistics and any questions about this program should be referred to the Statistics advisors. The BCS (Data Science) focuses on data analysis and computation giving you access to all major level Computer Science courses, while the BMath (Data Science) focuses on building more complex data models.

The BCS Data Science is a stand alone program and cannot be combined with any of the specializations offered to the BCS or BMath CS programs.

Computer Science— You will explore how machine learning and computational methods are used to find patterns in data and build systems that can support decision-making in areas such as public policy, business and finance, environmental sciences, and technology. In finance, for example, data science techniques are used to analyze market trends, assess risk, detect fraud, and support forecasting and investment decisions. This combination of computing skills and real-world application helps you understand not just how to work with data, but how to use it to make a real impact.

Statistics— You will learn how to reason with uncertainty and make informed conclusions based on data. This includes understanding probability, statistical modelling, making forecasts with data, and how to interpret results in a meaningful and responsible way. You will develop the ability to ask the right questions, design analyses, and evaluate how reliable your findings are, especially when working with real-world data that can be messy or incomplete.

Together, these statistical foundations allow you to critically assess patterns and predictions, including those produced by machine learning models. You will learn how to connect mathematical reasoning with computational tools to draw insights that are not only accurate, but also useful for decision-making in fields like finance, where understanding uncertainty and risk is essential.

To be eligible to apply to the BCS Data Science program, students must:

• be enrolled in a Computer Science program
• have completed or be in the process of taking STAT 231

With these two requirements, please complete a Plan Modification Form (below) to change your program to BCS Data Science.

Similar to Computer Science majors, BCS Data Science students must complete the following to graduate:

1. Complete the degree requirements as outlined in the relevant Undergraduate Calendar, including
   • completing the Math Undergraduate Communication Requirement,
   • Breadth and Depth,
   • graduating in good standing.
2. Review the graduation checklist and apply to graduate,

The official degree requirements are in the University Calendar, but there are handy checklists that you can use linked below, which summarizes your requirements. Please refer to the CS advisors for questions about the BCS Data Science degree and the Math Co-op Sequence Advisorsfor more information on co-op requirements.