The Statistics and Data Science major at UC Santa Barbara combines statistical theory with practical data analysis skills. Students learn to tackle real-world problems using statistical modeling, data visualization, machine learning, and programming. The program prepares graduates for careers in data science, analytics, and research, offering hands-on experience and strong industry connections in a collaborative, innovative environment.
Degree Requirements
To be admitted to the full major, students must complete all pre-major courses with a 2.5 or higher UC grade-point average. All pre-major courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. Students are permitted to repeat a maximum of two pre-major courses. Only one repeat is allowed in each course. Preparation courses are excluded from the pre-major GPA, but will apply to the overall major GPA. Students must complete Computer Science 8 and either 9 or 16 with a grade of “C” or better. Only one repeat is allowed in each preparation for the major and pre-major requirement. Entry into the pre-major does not guarantee admission to full major status. While completing required preparation,students are classified as a Pre-Statistics and Data Science major.
B.A. degree vs. B.S. degree
Bachelor of Arts
The B.A. in Statistics and Data Science is a basic degree intended for students interested in general training and statistics and the use of statistical methods in the social sciences, psychology, business and management, biological and environmental sciences, etc.
The Bachelor of Arts degree differs from the Bachelor of Science program in two ways:
- by requiring 12 less upper-division units (36 units versus 48 units, in total 3 courses)
- by allowing flexibility in the choice of major courses
Some common reasons that a student might choose the B.A. degree over the B.S. degree include:
- The B.A allows students to graduate earlier
- The B.A is easier to complete when opting to double major
Students opting for the B.A. degree are advised to consult our faculty undergraduate advisor about their choice of electives. For example, some of our B.A. graduates were successfully hired in the financial industry (e.g., Franklin Templeton, Capital One, Deutsche Bank, etc.) due to their strategic choice of courses such as: PSTAT 126, 130, 131, 174 and several actuarial courses as electives.
***Please note that the difference between the Minor in Statistics requirements and the B.A. requirements is small, and is essentially three Upper Division courses. Many students begin the Statistics minor but complete the full B.A. requirements and graduate with a double major.
Bachelor of Science
The Department typically advises students to choose the B.S. in Statistics and Data Science degree over the B.A. in Statistics and Data Science degree because it provides better preparation for the work force.
The Bachelor of Science degree differs from the Bachelor of Art program in two ways:
- by requiring 12 more upper-division units (3 courses)
- by requiring PSTAT 122 (an optional elective for those pursuing the B.A.)
Prospective Transfer Students
- If a student transferring to UCSB has two or more actuarial pre-major courses to complete at UCSB, the student must complete these courses with a GPA of 2.5.
- If a student transferring to UCSB has only one pre-major course to complete at UCSB, the student must meet the 2.5 GPA with the remaining pre-major course and PSTAT 120A.
- If a student transferring to UCSB has completed all the pre-major courses, the student must meet the GPA with PSTAT 120A.
Preparation for High Schoolers
- Two years of algebra
- Courses in geometry and trigonometry at high school
- AP Statistics