Data analytics will be a critical tool in shaping the future, and those with the right skills and perspective will be ready to help tackle important issues, including climate change, the future of work, globalization, healthcare, artificial intelligence and critical aspects of privacy and security. Data analytics at Dickinson was designed to transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries, integrating computational acumen with opportunities in the natural sciences, social sciences, arts, languages and humanities.

Data analytics majors will learn to be critical consumers, users, explorers and communicators of data, ready for a multitude of postgraduate degrees, careers and experiences. The major will give students a depth and breadth of knowledge, including the technical expertise to perform sophisticated analyses, and the ability to meaningfully comprehend, critique and construct data-driven arguments.

The data analytics curriculum at Dickinson is highly interdisciplinary, involving:

  • foundational courses in mathematics and computer science
  • a course in the philosophy and ethics of data
  • an experiential component such as an internship or an independent research project
  • a three-course disciplinary focus in a field that allows students to meaningfully apply their skills in data analysis to a particular subject area.

This data analytics curriculum will prepare students to become the citizen-leaders and agents of change in today’s data-rich environment, ready to adapt rapidly to the data-driven global society of today and tomorrow.

Contact Info

Department co-chairs

Dick ForresterProfessor of Mathematics and Data Analytics
Emily MarshallAssociate Professor of Economics and Data Analytics
Department Email

Department coordinator

Shane GleasonDepartment coordinator

Phone

717-245-1381

Fax

Location

Tome Hall Mailing Address

Student Perspective

"Majoring in data analytics and environmental science is a good challenge for my mind, body and soul. The environmental sciences major provides me with a myriad of experience to grow a deeper love for the environment and awareness toward environmental justice issues. The data analytics major allows me to build my computational abilities and confidence as a problem solver. Together, I get to see and experience the connections between sustainability, social justice and big data and envision how I can make my mark."

— Michelle Cao ’25



Data Analytics Department News

Student Snapshot: Michelle Cao ’25  

Student Snapshot: Michelle Cao ’25  

”I get to see and experience the connections between sustainability, social justice and big data and envision how I can make my mark," says Michelle Cao '25 of her Dickinson experience.

Math Is for Aliens

Math Is for Aliens

Professor of Mathematics and Data Analytics Dick Forrester discusses the universal utility of mathematics, roundhouse kicks and how data analytics holds the promise of true transformation.

New Podcast, Video Series Launches With Look Inside the Data of Fantasy Football

New Podcast, Video Series Launches With Look Inside the Data of Fantasy Football

Want to up your fantasy-sports game? Our new "Expert Show" begins with a look at data in fantasy football.

Hey, Google—How Can I Kick-start a Career in Tech?

Hey, Google—How Can I Kick-start a Career in Tech?

Looking for a head start on a career at one of today’s tech giants? With 16 alumni currently working at Google, Dickinson has you covered.

Success by the Numbers: Alumni Couple Honored for Support of  Leading-Edge Programs

Success by the Numbers: Alumni Couple Honored for Support of Leading-Edge Programs

Dickinson's QR Center and distinctive data analytics program help prepare students to make informed decisions in a data-driven world. None of it would have been possible without this couple's support

Back of the Net! Exploring Dream Careers in Sports Analytics

Back of the Net! Exploring Dream Careers in Sports Analytics

Ever dream of working in the sports industry? Scott Cohen '91, director of football research for the Baltimore Ravens, shares what it takes to forge a dream career in sports analytics.