Bachelor of Data Analytics at The Ohio State University
The Data Analytics at The Ohio State University is a Full Time Bachelor program offered on the Columbus campus in United States of America. The program is delivered on campus in English and can be completed in 4 years. Students develop academic knowledge and practical skills that prepare them for future careers in this field. The next available intake starts on August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Data Analytics
Data Analytics
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
College: Arts and Sciences
Data analytics applies fundamental scientific principles to the analysis of large, complex data sets. This rapidly growing field needs practitioners with expertise that cuts across core disciplines of computer science, mathematics and statistics and with highly developed critical-thinking, problem-solving and communication skills.
Data analytics includes the set of skills necessary to manage, represent and manipulate large, complex data stores; to abstract, model and effectively analyze such data; and to create quantitative visual cues to help explain and make informed decisions from those data. By making sense of a vast information landscape, data analytics is transforming the way we understand and interact with the world.
Get started
Students declare a pre-major in data analytics when they apply to the university. To move from the pre-major to the major, students must complete the required prerequisite course work at Ohio State and fill out the online application form at data-analytics.osu.edu.
Curriculum
The requirements for the major are broken down into two components: core fundamentals and an area of specialization. All students take courses covering the fundamentals of data analytics, including:
- Calculus and linear algebra
- Data mining and statistical learning
- Database design and cloud computing
- Optimization
- Probability and statistical inference
- Regression modeling and statistical decision making
- Software design and programming
- Visualization
Each student also chooses one of the following specializations to learn how data analytics is applied in a particular field:
- Biomedical and public health analytics
- Business analytics
- Computational analytics
- Data visualization
- Social science analytics
Course work in some specializations can be tailored based on a student’s interests. Each specialization includes a capstone or integrative experiential component. It is recommended that students choose their specialization early on with the help of their academic advisor.
Internship
Students in the data analytics major have a wide array of opportunities for internships. From industries such as finance, banking, retail, health care and professional sports, analytic talent is always in high professional demand.
Student organizations
Data analytics students may be interested in Ohio State's Big Data and Analytics Association, which hosts hands-on workshops with industry professionals to encourage students to think analytically and create connections with potential employers.
Possible careers
Although a relatively new field, data science and analytics has been described by the Harvard Business Review as the “sexiest job of the 21st century.†Glassdoor, one of the world's largest job and recruiting sites, rated data scientist as the Best Job from 2016 to 2019. Companies in a wide range of fields actively recruit employees with specialized skills in data analytics.
Career prospects in data analytics are promising. A broad analysis by McKinsey & Company showed data analysis to be an integral business function in nearly every segment of the economy. Yet, there will be a large shortage of prospective data-analytic employees in the near term.
Upon graduation, 75% of students have at least one job offer. Another 12% plan to attend graduate school. Companies hiring data analytics graduates include Accenture, Cardinal Health, Columbus Blue Jackets, Ford, Infoverity, JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide Children's Hospital, PwC and Zillow.
Salary estimates
The median pay for data scientists was $122,840 in 2019 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which classifies data scientists as computer and information research scientists.
For recent graduates of the data analytics major at Ohio State, starting salaries ranged from $60,000 to $80,000.
Program objectives
A student graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in data analytics will demonstrate:
- An understanding of and ability to apply computer science principles relating to data representation, retrieval, programming and analysis of big data
- An understanding of and ability to apply statistical methods, models and concepts to data analysis and to draw conclusions supported by data
- Critical thinking skills associated with problem identification, problem solving and decision making
- The ability to apply knowledge gained from one area to problems and data in another
- The ability to communicate findings and their implications and to apply them effectively in organizational settings
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Data Analytics at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Data Analytics at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Data Analytics at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus