BS in Mathematical Data Science

Mathematical Data Science is an exciting inter-disciplinary field that leverages Mathematics, Statistics and computer programming to solve complex problems in business, medicine, sports management and many other fields. Data Scientists with a strong mathematical foundation are uniquely skilled to lead the development and application of new algorithms to generate data-driven discoveries and insights.

Become a Panther!

Combining rigorous mathematical foundations with cutting-edge data science techniques, our Mathematical Data Science major empowers students to tackle complex problems and drive innovation forward. Applications close late March.

Why Mathematical Data Science?

As we launch our new major in Mathematical Data Science, we're excited to offer students a unique blend of traditional data science skills and mathematical expertise. With a strong foundation in mathematics and statistics, graduates will stand out among their peers as leaders in the field.

By combining rigorous mathematical modeling techniques with cutting-edge statistical processing methods, our program prepares students to take on leadership roles within data science teams. They'll be equipped to tackle complex problems, analyze large datasets, and drive innovation forward.

But that's not all. Our graduates will also develop the ability to think creatively, using their mathematical problem-solving skills to push the boundaries of what's possible in data science. By applying mathematical rigor to data analysis, they'll uncover new insights, identify patterns, and make predictions with unprecedented accuracy.

What are possible career opportunities?

There are plenty of future careers in data science, but we encourage you to make sure that you verify for yourself. The BS in Mathematical Data Science degree gives you access to many careers, some of which in the list below.

  • Data Scientist
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Business Analyst
  • Financial Analyst
  • Medical Analyst
  • Data Journalist

Are you considering an MS or Ph.D?

Due to the mathematical background, students should expect to be fully prepared for graduate school in data science, mathematics, or statistics.

Are you considering a dual major?

Both a computer science major and mathematics major have significant overlap with the Mathematical Data Science major. The addition of a dual major should not add too much to your graduation timeline while making you more competitive for your future careers. However, we strongly suggest talking to an advisor before committing to a dual major.

More information is avalible in the Undergraduate Catalog or by consulting the undergraduate advisor, John Zweibel.

Machine Learning and Data Modeling in Mathematics

Recent Ph.D graduate Dr. Luis Caicedo Torres’s research is in harnessing the power of scientific machine learning (Sci-ML) tools for modeling physical systems with low amount of data available or in systems with dynamics that are computationally infeasible. By drawing inspiration from classical partial differential equation techniques, he is working on building more robust systems that are able to accurately predict behavior in complex systems. In particular, Caicedo Torres is looking at the application of these ideas to neutron kinetics in subcritical nuclear systems and image recognition for nuclear safety applications. These style of systems are seeing an ever-increasing applicability throughout every area of science.

Sample Four Year Plan

A student is considered to be "Full-time" if they are enrolled in 15 credits. No semester here fills 15 credit hours. Rather we encourage students to explore the Undergraduate Catalog to find other courses in mathematics, statistics, or computer science, that fit your interests to make this degree unique to you. There are also going to be general requirements which are recommended to be evenly distributed across all four years.

View the flow chart for prerequisites.

First Year

 Fall

  •  Early Mathematics Prerequisites

Spring

  • MAD 2104 Discrete Mathematics
  • COP 2210 Computer Programming I

Second Year

Fall

  • MAS 3105 Linear Algebra I
  • CAP 2752 Fundamentals of Data Science
  • COP 3337 Computer Programming II

Spring

  • MAS 4107 Linear Algebra II
  • MAS 4107L Linear Algebra II Lab
  • MAP 2302 Differential Equations

Third Year

Fall

  • STA 4321 Mathematical Statistics I
  • COP 3530 Data Structures

Spring

  • STA 4322 Mathematical Statistics II
  • COP 4710 Database Management

Fourth Year

Fall

  • STA 4234 Introduction to Regression Analysis
  • MAP 4202 Optimization
  • MAP 4202L Optimization Lab

Spring

  • STA 4362 Statistical Machine Learning
  • STA 4362L Statistical Machine Learning Lab
  • MAP 4950C Senior Design Project for Mathematical Data Science

Supporting you at FIU

It's normal to have questions or concerns when deciding your major. The faculty listed below are interested in helping you succeed in the Mathematical Data Science major at FIU. As the program designers they are fully equipped to address any concerns.