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Associate of Applied Science

Data Science (A.A.S.)

Department of Mathematics
Students will gain an understanding of applied statistics, core programming languages, and the collaborative communication skills to help prepare them for careers in data science.

Data Science Introduction

A student learns about Data Wrangling on his computer.
Learn More About the Data Science Program
Request more information about the Data Science program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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The data science associate degree at BYU-Idaho lets students get right to work after graduation. And with so many open positions in the field, getting started early matters. This program focuses on foundational courses in math, computer programming, design or business, while building soft skills in collaboration and communication. This way, you’re immediately prepared for the duties of an entry level position or for further education down the line. 

As a student in the data science associate program, you will use industry standard tools like: 

  • Python 
  • R  
  • SQL 
  • Github 
  • R-Studio Suite 
  • Tidyverse 

Highlighted Courses

If you are interested in Data Science, start with one of the following courses:
Business Analytics
April 08, 2026 12:59 PM
BA 315
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Intermediate Statistics
April 08, 2026 12:58 PM
MATH 325
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Data Warehousing
April 08, 2026 12:44 PM
ITM 327
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Cloud Data Engineering
April 08, 2026 12:46 PM
ITM 345
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Data Wrangling and Visualization
April 08, 2026 12:41 PM
DS 350
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Machine Learning
April 08, 2026 12:40 PM
CSE 450
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Developing AI Systems
April 08, 2026 12:45 PM
CSE 455
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Big Data Programming and Analytics
April 08, 2026 12:42 PM
DS 460
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2-Year Plan
See Example Class Plan
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See all required courses

Career Possibilities for Data Science

Graduates with a degree in Data Science have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Data Science

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
Students in class
Career Possibilities
Careers for a Data Science Associate Degree
August 24, 2026 09:20 AM
An associate degree provides varied paths to success both in and out of the classroom. It gives you the opportunity to enter the field quickly and gain experience, but also the possibility of going back to school to continue your education. A data science associate degree typically prepares students for entry-level analytics, support, or technical data roles rather than full data scientist positions. These entry-level roles use the foundational skills taught in an associate degree program to introduce you to the field of data science and begin your professional career.
5 Min Read
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Students in class
Find the Right Fit
The Difference Between the Data Science Programs
August 24, 2026 09:15 AM
Both associate and bachelor’s degrees provide diverse opportunities in the world of data science, but there are big differences between the two. Each has been designed to meet the needs of different kinds of students and provide a solid foundation of knowledge about the field. In this article, we will lay out what separates these two degrees and which one would be the best fit for you.
4 Min Read
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Students in class
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Transferring Associate Data Science Credits
August 24, 2026 09:25 AM
It is common for students to begin their postsecondary education with an associate degree for various reasons. If you decide to pursue a bachelor's degree either after completing your associate degree or while you are still in school, it is important to know your options and how to make the most of the time and money invested in your education.
4 Min Read
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AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

Learn more about AI in Academics
AI in Data Science
You will learn to leverage AI as a powerful co-pilot to accelerate your technical coding skills while developing the critical judgment necessary to validate automated outputs. This training ensures you can lead with gospel-centered integrity, solving real-world business problems through the ethical application of artificial intelligence.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

Related Majors

A professor teaches his students about Data Wrangling.
Data Science (B.S.)
Use math and computing software to find insights and solve complex problems with data.
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Math Students complete equations on the first day of classes.
Mathematics (B.S.)
Use logic and numbers to solve complex problems.
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Students gather around a computer to complete an assignment for FDMath 110.
Statistics: Actuarial Science Emphasis (B.S.)
Collect, analyze, and interpret data to make informed decisions.
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A student refracting lasers through differently shaped prisms.
Physics: Mathematical Emphasis (B.S.)
Use advanced math to solve fundamental problems in physics theory.
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Math Education students talk with a professor.
Mathematics Education (B.S.)
Teach math concepts and problem-solving skills to middle and high school students.
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Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Learn How to Apply
Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
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Change Your Major
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.
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Learn More About the Data Science Program

Request more information about the Data Science program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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