Data Science

The Data Science Program

The goal of the Data Science program is to prepare students for careers that explore patterns in large data sets and identify potential trends and insights. The program will teach students skills in programing, modeling, machine learning, data visualization, and database structures, and to assess how data can be used to solve novel problems. Students will also learn about the ethical, moral, and societal implications of data science. The program will focus on teaching students to uncover insights through manipulation of large datasets. Graduates will know how to effectively expose complicated problems related to the management, analysis, and dissemination of vast amounts of information; and once exposed, how to define, discuss, and solve problems.

Societal Implications of Data Science : Going Beyond Methods

Data Science at W&M provides a novel learning environment. We push students beyond methods and towards critically considering the implications of big data and algorithms on our society. 

Topics in Data Science are constantly evolving, and so do our courses. Example issues drawn from previous coursework have included:

• How big data and algorithms are influencing sentencing in the legal system.
• How algorithms choose - intentionally or not - who to save in a car crash.
• How websites such as match.com are impacting the future of human genetics.

What about Coursework?

Data Science has four core courses that every student will take:

• An introduction to Computer Programming designed for non-CS majors with no or limited computer coding experience.
• An introduction to Modeling designed for Data Science students
• A philosophy course - options include those considering the moral implications of data
• An applications course, in which students apply their skills to solve problems of interest to them.

You will work with a faculty advisor to select relevant upper-level coursework to complete the degree. You can also opt to take a capstone research course.

Secondary School Report Form including official records of your courses and grades from all secondary schools and universities you have attended. Please note that in order to have complete secondary school records, we need to have records from your ninth grade year (last year of middle or junior high school) as well as your complete senior high school records. These records must be sent directly to us from your school. Certified non-English transcripts or grade reports should be accompanied by official (literal, not interpretive) translations.

*Students applying as international transfer students need to complete the transfer student application requirements.

Optional Application Materials include:

1. Teacher Evaluation Form and Letter of Recommendation - you may submit one letter of recommendation with your application. Please do not submit more than two.
2. Results of optional standardized tests a) SAT or ACT; and b) TOEFL or IELTS. Results may be sent directly to William & Mary by the testing organization or self-reported in the application. Admitted students who self-reported standardized test scores in the application will be asked to have official scores sent by the testing organization at the time of enrollment.
3. Creative and Performing Arts Submission
4. InitialView - William & Mary is a welcoming community that offers endless opportunities to discuss big ideas both inside and outside the classroom. Applicants who are non-native English speakers are welcome to participate in a third-party, unscripted interview through InitialView. If you have interviewed with InitialView, we encourage you to consider adding William & Mary to your list of school as an optional way to supplement your application.

Tell us your story. We want to learn more about who you’ve been, who you are and who you’ll become in college. Numbers will inevitably be part of your story, but we’re also interested in your ambition, your drive and your hidden talents.

William & Mary practices holistic review; decisions are not based solely on one aspect of your application. Rather, we review your essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular involvements, and yes, those numbers like GPAs and standardized test scores. Each application is read at least twice, including once by your regional counselor. At the end of this process, our goal is to bring together a class of dynamic, diverse and academically engaged students.

Our Applications & Instructions

William & Mary currently accepts:

• The Common Application