What Makes UVA’s B.S. in Data Science Unique? Curriculum, Experience, and Outcomes
The B.S. in Data Science (BSDS) at the University of Virginia is a three-year, application-based major housed in the nation’s first School of Data Science. Students apply in the spring of their first year at UVA and gain rigorous technical training grounded in ethics, collaboration, and real-world impact. Designed for students who want to use data to solve complex global challenges, the BSDS combines analytical depth with a human-centered approach.
If you are considering majoring in data science at UVA, here’s what you should know about the curriculum, admissions process, study abroad options, scholarships, and career outcomes.
Quick Facts About the UVA B.S. in Data Science
- Students apply in the spring of their first year at UVA
- The major spans three years (second through fourth year)
- Housed in the first School of Data Science in the United States
- Students choose one 9-credit core concentration: Analytics, Systems, Design, or Value
- Ability to double major in the College of Arts & Sciences
- Eligible for semester-long study abroad with major credit
- No separate application required for the Stephenson Bicentennial Scholarship
Why Study Data Science at UVA?
Data science is one of the fastest-growing professions in the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 34% growth in data science employment over the next decade, with approximately 23,400 openings per year.
At UVA, data science is not just technical — it is ethical, collaborative, and interdisciplinary. The School of Data Science takes a holistic, human-centered approach, meaning students learn:
- Technical skills in programming, analytics, and mathematics
- How data informs decisions in healthcare, business, policy, and research
- The ethical implications of working with data
- How to communicate insights clearly and responsibly
Students do not apply to UVA as data science majors; they apply to the BSDS during their first year after completing prerequisite coursework.
What Makes UVA’s BSDS Unique?
Several features distinguish the UVA data science undergraduate degree:
- First School of Data Science in the United States
- Required integration of ethics and societal impact
- Flexible interdisciplinary collaborative concentrations
- Dedicated financial support through the Stephenson programs
- A cohort-based academic community
The BSDS is designed for students who want to combine quantitative rigor with real-world problem-solving. We are building a community of motivated scholars who are passionate about collaboratively solving global challenges through data science and applying their intellectual curiosity across a wide range of meaningful contexts.
Successful students are prepared for a rigorous STEM curriculum and value diverse perspectives, actively contributing to a collaborative community.
What is the UVA BSDS Curriculum?
The BSDS curriculum provides a strong foundation in the core principles and applications of data science needed to support organizational data strategies.
Students develop skills in programming, mathematical and analytical methods, data systems and pipelines, and data visualization, while learning to apply these tools to real-world problems across a wide range of industries and contexts.
First-Year Prerequisites
Students interested in applying must complete:
- DS 1001 – Foundations of Data Science
- DS 1002 – Programming for Data Science (or approved equivalent, see below)
Both prerequisite courses are offered in fall and spring terms, have no prerequisites and may be taken concurrently. Students interested in pursuing the BSDS program must take both courses in their first year to be eligible to apply.
In lieu of DS 1002: Programming for Data Science, the programming requirement may be met the following ways:
- CS 1110, 1111, or 1112
- PHYS 1655 / CS 1113
- AP Computer Science A (score of 4 or 5)
- IB HL Computer Science (score of 5-7)
Students are encouraged to complete Calculus I (or higher) in their first year and must complete it before taking DS 3025 – Mathematics for Data Science. Early planning is essential to remain eligible to apply.
Concentrations and Interdisciplinary Opportunities
All students will select one core concentration from the School of Data Science, completing one 9-credit core concentration in Analytics, Systems, Design or Value.
Students may also pursue collaborative concentrations connecting data science to fields such as:
- Economics
- Global Public Health
- Environmental Science
- Neuroscience
- Mathematics
- Public Policy and Leadership
- Educational Analytics
- Astronomy
- Human Movement and Physiology
- Analytical Accounting
These concentrations prepare students for industry roles and research opportunities while giving them the flexibility to apply data science skills to real-world challenges in the domains they care about most.
Can You Double Major with Data Science at UVA?
Yes. BSDS students may double major in the College of Arts & Sciences and may pursue minors across UVA’s schools. The structure of the three-year program allows motivated students to integrate data science with disciplines like economics, biology, politics, or computer science.
Can BSDS Students Study Abroad?
Yes. Data science majors may study abroad during the fall of their third year at UVA (second year in the BSDS program). Students are required to meet with their academic advisor prior to applying for study abroad to ensure proper course planning and to navigate general education and elective transfer credit selection.
UVA in Valencia (Spain):
- Direct credit for core requirements
- Courses primarily taught in English
- At least one Spanish-language course required
- Must be eligible for SPAN 2010
DIS Scandinavia (Denmark or Sweden):
- Fully taught in English
- Transfer credit for core and concentration requirements
Students who cannot participate in semester programs can explore winter break, spring break, or summer options through UVA’s International Studies Office. Global exposure enhances students’ understanding of how data science is applied across cultures and industries.
What Scholarships Are Available for BSDS Students?
The School of Data Science and the University remain committed to helping students with demonstrated need navigate the increasing costs of higher education. Tuition and fees are set annually by the University of Virginia Board of Visitors in early spring. Find more information about costs and financial aid information for the BSDS degree.
Stephenson Data Science Bicentennial Scholarship
Awarded annually to BSDS students, the Stephenson Bicentennial Scholarship meets 100% of demonstrated financial need — covering tuition, room, board, and required expenses without loans or work-study requirements.
Key details include:
- No separate application required
- Students are considered automatically when they submit the FAFSA and apply to the BSDS major
- Award decisions are coordinated with UVA Student Financial Services
- Funding is distributed across six semesters in the BSDS program
Stephenson Scholars benefit from:
- Individualized mentorship from faculty and staff
- Internship and research funding for unpaid, mission-driven experiences
- Exclusive programming focused on community-building, career exploration, and leadership development
- Access to a vibrant cohort of fellow scholars united by purpose and passion
This scholarship is designed to expand access and allow students to fully engage in the academic and experiential opportunities offered by the School of Data Science.
Stephenson Experiential Learning Fund (SELF)
Open to all BSDS majors, SELF provides financial support to help students pursue high-impact, hands-on experiential learning opportunities that align with their academic goals, career interests, and leadership development.
Through the SELF fund, students can participate in:
- Career treks to visit companies, meet professionals, and explore careers in data science
- Micro-internships and project-based experiences that apply classroom learning to real-world problems
- Internships, research, and other applied learning opportunities
- Leadership and professional development experiences
SELF helps remove financial barriers so students can focus on gaining meaningful, career-shaping experience and reflecting on their growth as data scientists.
What Is Required to Apply to the BSDS?
When evaluating applications to the BSDS major, the Admissions Committee aims to build a community of students who are passionate about using data science to collaboratively address global challenges, eager to apply their curiosity across diverse contexts, prepared for a rigorous STEM curriculum, and committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives. The BSDS application requires the following:
One-Page Resume
Include academic, work, and extracurricular experiences since graduating high school, such as:
- Student organizations
- Internships or jobs
- Research or coding projects
- Leadership or service
- Military or gap-year experiences
Clear formatting and proofreading are essential. We strongly encourage applicants to refer to the UVA Career Center’s resume resources or review advice from our current students.
One Recommendation
The recommender should be someone who can comment on your qualifications and readiness. This may include a supervisor, advisor, mentor, instructor, or teaching assistant. Recommenders may not be affiliated with the School of Data Science. For tips on how to navigate the process, read this application recommendation article.
Short Answer Responses
The short answer questions provide a student with the opportunity to discuss their background and what deepened their interest in pursuing the data science major. There is no “right” answer to these questions. Any answer that allows the student to be their authentic self is best.
What Careers Can You Pursue with a BSDS Degree?
A B.S. in Data Science from the University of Virginia prepares students to lead in a world shaped by data and AI. As organizations across industries increasingly rely on data to drive decisions, employers seek graduates who can translate data into insight and act on it.
BSDS graduates can pursue in-demand roles such as:
- Data Scientist
- Data Engineer
- Machine Learning Specialist
- Data Analyst
- Product or Business Analyst
- Public Sector Data Specialist
- Research Analyst
Graduates can work across industries and disciplines including technology, healthcare, finance, consulting, sports, government, and public policy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for data scientists is projected to grow 34% through 2034. This demand reflects a strong need for professionals who combine technical expertise with critical thinking and communication skills.
At UVA, data science students gain that advantage through a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum, hands-on projects, and experiential learning opportunities like micro-internships, career treks, and research. The result is a degree designed for impact, preparing graduates not just for their first job, but for long-term success and leadership in a data-driven world.
How Do I Find Out More About UVA's BSDS?
Our BSDS Student Ambassadors are a great resource as you consider applying to the major. They come from a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and interests and can provide first-hand insight into what it is like to be a student in the School of Data Science.
We invite you to attend one of our upcoming events or read our Admissions Blog to explore all that the BSDS major has to offer. You are welcome to reach out to us any time at sdsadmissions@virginia.edu.
Learn more about the data science bachelor's degree at the University of Virginia. Request more information, connect with Admissions, or start your application today.
