# Data Science (AS Degree)

Sierra College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Mathematics

Source: https://catalog.sierracollege.edu/departments/mathematics/#DataSci

The Associate Degree in Data Science provides students with a strong foundation in mathematics, data science, and computer science. This program prepares students for entry-level positions in the field or facilitates their transition to upper-division coursework at a four-year college or university. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students develop essential analytical and computational skills necessary for success in both academic and professional environments.

With the growing demand for data-driven decision-making, Data Science offers numerous career opportunities across various industries. Completing this degree helps students build a wide range of skills that are highly valued in collaborative work environments. Graduates can enhance their employment prospects not only in Data Science but also in applied fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Mathematics, Biology, Sociology, Finance, Business, Social Sciences, Healthcare, Communications, Journalism, Political Science, Media, and Entertainment, where data analysis is becoming increasingly essential.

The program in Mathematics and Computer Science outlined below is typical of lower-division requirements for four-year colleges and universities: some requirements vary from college to college. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for more information on university admission and transfer requirements. Students must fulfill the following major requirements with grades of “C” or better, complete a minimum of 60 degree-applicable semester units (12 of which must be completed at Sierra College) with a grade point average of at least 2.0 and complete one of the following general education patterns:

-   Sierra College Associate Degree Requirements (Local General Education)
-   California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC)

**Required Courses**

Required courses:

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| CSCI 0012 | Programming Concepts and Methodology I | 3 |
| CSCI 0013 | Programming Concepts and Methodology II | 3 |
| or CSCI 0066 | Object-Oriented Programming Using C++ |  |
| CSCI 0014 | Data Structures | 3 |
| CSCI 0052 | Introduction to SQL | 3 |
| MATH 0011 | Data Science for All | 4 |
| MATH 0030 | Analytical Geometry and Calculus I | 4 |
| MATH 0031 | Analytical Geometry and Calculus II | 4 |
| MATH 0034 | Introduction to Linear Algebra | 3 |
| **Total Units** | | **27** |