Bachelor’s degrees in data science
If you aim to work with emerging technologies like AI and machine learning, completing a data science program can help you realize your goals. Discover details on edX's data science programs, including online data science classes, in this guide.
Explore the degrees
Key takeaways
- You can learn Python, R, SQL, statistics, and machine learning in a data science bachelor's degree program.
- Jobs for data scientists are projected to grow by 34% through 2034, according to the BLS.
- On edX, you can complete 120 credits at your own pace to earn your data science bachelor's degree.
Find the right online bachelor's in data science classes for you
Data science bachelor's programs on edX
If you're considering enrolling in a bachelor's in data science program, explore edX's online degrees from top schools like the University of London and Maryville University.
These degrees can prepare you with the technical foundation you'll need to address real-world challenges and collaborate with teams across business and tech to build models, present insights, and improve decision-making.
As the data science field grows, many graduates specialize in forecasting, recommendation systems, or reinforcement learning, often within a specific industry such as e-commerce and retail, energy, entertainment, healthcare, and fintech.
What you'll learn in a data science bachelor's degree
An online bachelor's in data science program can help you strengthen your mathematical and analytical skills. You'll explore topics like applied statistics and data analytics while building statistical modeling and probability forecasting skills.
Common undergraduate data science classes may include:
- AI
- Applied statistics
- Business analytics
- Computer programming
- Deep learning
- Ethics
- Machine learning
- Probability theory
- Python
- R
- SQL
- Statistical modeling and inference
In addition to core data science courses, you'll take general education classes and can choose a minor or electives. Some data science bachelor's programs also offer specializations in business analytics, computer science, behavioral science, finance, biomedicine, and other areas.
How long does it take to obtain a bachelor's in data science?
Most bachelor's degree programs require you to complete a minimum of 120 credits. Full-time students can earn their degrees in around four years. If you have qualifying transfer credits, you may be able to graduate sooner.
Why pursue an online bachelor's in data science?
Join a fast-growing field
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), data scientists are one of the fastest-growing jobs, and a bachelor's program in the field can prepare you for entry-level roles.
Apply data science across many industries
Work in diverse fields such as business, medicine, fintech, and marketing.
Earn a higher-than-average salary
Many career paths that require you to hold a data science bachelor's degree report six-figure median salaries.
Careers related to data science programs
Organizations across industries increasingly rely on data science to make informed decisions. Data science blends statistics, , and applied . Earning this degree can prepare you to pursue roles in business, finance, biomedicine, and tech.
As a data scientist, your job responsibilities may include:
- Analyzing big data.
- Evaluating algorithms to refine their output.
- Creating data visualizations.
To work in data science, you'll need strong technical knowledge, including programming and statistical modeling skills. You'll also need soft skills like communication and teamwork to interface with technical and non-technical coworkers.
The following table covers several roles you can pursue after completing a data science program, along with job growth projections and median salary data from the BLS.
| Job | Median annual salary (2024) | Projected job growth (2024-34) |
|---|---|---|
| Data scientist | $112,590 | +34% |
| Financial analyst | $101,910 | +6% |
| Management analyst | $101,190 | +9% |
For a more in-depth look into data science salaries, learn about the .
Further education in data science
A bachelor's program in data science can prepare you to pursue an advanced degree in many fields.
Many graduates choose to pursue a master's in data science, , artificial intelligence, or . You can also specialize in .
Your next steps on edX
Here's how you can start learning data science on edX today:
- Explore edX's online bachelor's degree programs in data science.
- Take time to review the curricula and confirm your readiness for the required courses. Check if programs offer specialty tracks that fit your career goals.
- Look into the admission requirements to see if you meet them.
- Confirm each program's expected length so you can plan your schedule accordingly.
- Review tuition costs, and see whether financial aid is available through scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study options.
- Try an introductory option if you're not ready to commit. If you're unsure whether a full degree is the right step, consider starting with an , earning a , or enrolling in a program.
- Apply to a data science bachelor's degree program on edX when you're ready.
- Maryville University offers three start dates per year — in spring, summer, and fall.
- The University of London has four start dates: February, May, August, and November.
Frequently asked questions
Last updated August 12, 2025