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Offered by the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, the BS in Computer Science with a Data Science Option provides students with a rigorous education in computing combined with deep knowledge of data science theory and applications. This degree prepares students to build scalable systems, analyze complex datasets, and apply machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques to solve real-world problems.
The University of Washington is consistently ranked among the top 10 computer science programs in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report), and the Allen School is renowned for cutting-edge research and industry partnerships.
Data Science Option
This track equips students with both the theoretical foundation and practical experience needed to derive insights from data. It merges computer science, mathematics, and statistics to support careers in AI, big data, and data-driven innovation.
Core Computer Science Courses:
Programming and software engineering
Data structures and algorithms
Computer systems and architecture
Theory of computation
Mathematical foundations of computing
Data Science Option Requirements:
Mathematics and Statistics:
Probability and statistics
Linear algebra
Core Data Science Courses:
Machine learning (CSE 446 or CSE 446/STAT 435)
Data management and data mining
Data visualization
Ethics in data science
Science Requirement:
5 credits from an approved science list like Physics, Biology, Chemistry
Electives (choose from advanced areas such as):
Natural language processing
Computer vision
Artificial intelligence
Computational biology
Cloud computing and large-scale systems
Access to state-of-the-art labs in robotics, AI, networking, and computational biology
Opportunities for undergraduate research and industry collaboration
Capstone design projects in data science and software development
Optional internships and co-ops supported through UW’s strong tech partnerships
Access to career fairs and events hosted by the Allen School and tech industry leaders
Ideal for careers in big tech, AI research, financial analytics, healthcare data, and cloud platforms
Strong preparation for graduate programs in computer science, data science, or AI
Graduates are highly recruited by companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and startups in Seattle and beyond
SAT/ACT Update: The UW no longer requires SAT or ACT scores for most applicants. Homeschooled applicants and applicants who come from schools with non-standard grading practices that do not have letter or numeric grades are still required to submit SAT or ACT scores. Learn more about SAT/ACT scores.English Language Proficiency: https://admit.washington.edu/apply/freshman/how-to-apply/english-proficiency/Recommendations: School Report- Required, Final Report- Required, Teacher Evaluation(s): Not Applicable, Other Evaluation(s): Not Applicable.Application details: The freshman application is available September 1 each year. The application includes self-reporting your academic history, two essays, demographic information and your intended first-choice and second-choice major. If you plan to apply to the Honors Program, you’ll find the Honors application within the general UW application.Additional details: Additional information about yourself or your circumstances Maximum length: 200 words You are not required to write anything in this section, but you may include additional information here if something has particular significance to you. For example, you may use this space if: You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations You have experienced unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attendedThings not required: No Common App personal essay The Common App personal essay will not be reviewed as part of your application to the University of Washington. Be sure to complete the University of Washington writing section to tell us everything you want us to know. No interviews/demonstrated interest The UW does not conduct formal interviews or consider demonstrated interest in the admission decision. No letters of recommendation We ask that you not send letters of recommendation or other supplemental materials such as drawings, CDs, DVDs, books or other portfolio type items. We will learn everything we need to know about you through your essay responses and academic history.Writing Requirements: Common App essay- Optional, College questions- 2 Required Questions, 2 Optional Questions.The Allen School has a limited number of scholarships available to current Allen School majorsData ScientistMachine Learning EngineerSoftware Developer (data-driven)Research ScientistData AnalystAI Engineer
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