Data Science

Associate in Science Degree Mathematics · MiraCosta College · 2026-2027 Catalog

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.

CourseTitleUnits
Required courses:
Data Science Course (choose one)3-4
MATH 110Principles of Data Science
CSIT 123Introduction to Data Analytics
Mathematical Courses
MATH C2210Calculus I: Early Transcendentals5
orMATH C2210ECalculus I: Early Transcendentals - Embedded Support
orMATH C2210HCalculus I: Early Transcendentals - Honors
MATH C2220Calculus II: Early Transcendentals4
MATH 270Linear Algebra4
MATH 260Calculus and Analytic Geometry III *4
orMATH 265Differential Equations
Computer Science Foundations6
Choose two courses from either Java Based or Python Based.
Java Based Courses
CS 112 & CS 113Introduction to Computer Science II: Javaand Basic Data Structures and Algorithms
Python Based Courses
CS 138 & CS 139Programming with Pythonand Advanced Programming with Python
Total Units26-27

View in the original catalog

Machine-readable: Markdown · JSON