Data Science

Data Science (DS) is an interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from data. Data Science program focuses on the fundamentals of computer science, applied mathematics, probability, statistics, optimization, and machine learning while incorporating real-world examples. New computational and analytic approaches to a vast array of forms, scales, and sources of data are now critical to research, decision-making, and action.

The Palomar College AS in Data Science (DS) program is designed to give students a broad introduction to the field of data science, including mathematics and computational tools, to explore a broad range of data, and prepare them to transfer to a Bachelor of Science degree in DS program at a 4-year university.

Learning Outcome(s):

1. Apply computer science knowledge, concepts, and techniques to utilize programming languages, software tools to develop mathematical models, computational methods, and machine learning algorithms for exploring, analyzing, and making predictions from data.
2. Apply analytical concepts and techniques from calculus and linear algebra to analyze and solve problems in data science including but not limited to statistical inference, optimization, integration, and matrix operations.
3. Analyze real-world data sets to provide insights from both structured and unstructured data to ask appropriate questions about the data and interpret predictions based on their domain knowledge.
4. Demonstrate communication, teamwork, and project-based learning skills necessary to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal.
5. Address ethical issues arising in data science, including the moral obligations of preserving privacy; mitigating the risk of attack; avoiding bias in models and algorithms; maintaining data transparency to data subjects; among others.