# Data Science (Associate in Science Degree)

MiraCosta College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Mathematics

Source: https://catalog.miracosta.edu/disciplines/mathematics/

Data science (DS) is an interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from data. The DS program focuses on fundamental ideas of computer science, applied mathematics, statistics, optimization, and data visualization while incorporating real-world examples. Computational, programming, and numerical approaches are constantly changing and critical to ongoing research, data-driven decision-making, and successful ongoing employment.

This program provides students with versatile skills that encompass higher levels of critical thinking and analysis related to data sets. It is designed to give students a broad overview of the field of data science, including mathematics and computational tools, to explore a broad range of data sets in multiple contexts, and prepare them to transfer to a Bachelor of Science in Data Science program at a four-year university. Graduates will have a basic skill set linking computer programming and computer science with theoretical mathematics and applications to be able to easily integrate into a four-year program.

##### Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to analyze problems and data sets, evaluate mathematical expressions, utilize programming tools, and interpret and apply the results.

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Required courses:** | |  |
| **Data Science Course (choose one)** | | 3-4 |
| MATH 110 | Principles of Data Science |  |
| CSIT 123 | Introduction to Data Analytics |  |
| **Mathematical Courses** | |  |
| MATH C2210 | Calculus I: Early Transcendentals | 5 |
| or MATH C2210E | Calculus I: Early Transcendentals - Embedded Support |  |
| or MATH C2210H | Calculus I: Early Transcendentals - Honors |  |
| MATH C2220 | Calculus II: Early Transcendentals | 4 |
| MATH 270 | Linear Algebra | 4 |
| MATH 260 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry III * | 4 |
| or MATH 265 | Differential Equations |  |
| **Computer Science Foundations** | | 6 |
| **Choose two courses from either Java Based or Python Based.** | |  |
| **Java Based Courses** | |  |
| ↳ CS 112 & CS 113 | Introduction to Computer Science II: Javaand Basic Data Structures and Algorithms |  |
| **Python Based Courses** | |  |
| ↳ CS 138 & CS 139 | Programming with Pythonand Advanced Programming with Python |  |
| **Total Units** | | **26-27** |