Data Science

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Howard Payne University’s Data Science program equips students with the analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in this growing field. Graduates are prepared for careers such as Data Scientist, Technical Data Analyst, and Machine Learning Engineer, where they can make a meaningful impact in a variety of industries.

In today’s data-driven world, information is being created at an unprecedented rate. Across industries—from business and finance to healthcare and technology—organizations rely on skilled professionals who can transform data into meaningful insights. Data Scientists play a vital role in helping organizations make informed decisions, improve efficiency, and drive innovation.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Data Scientists earn a median annual salary of more than $103,000, and employment in the field is projected to grow at a rate significantly faster than the average for all occupations. Through this program, students gain the knowledge and experience needed to pursue rewarding, high-demand careers while using data to serve organizations and communities with excellence.

Howard Payne University’s Data Science program is designed to equip students with the technical skills and critical thinking abilities needed to thrive in today’s data-driven world. Students begin with foundational coursework in data analytics, learning to organize, analyze, and visualize data using industry-standard tools. As they progress, they develop expertise in Python programming, machine learning, and advanced analytical techniques used to build predictive models and work with complex, unstructured data.

A distinctive feature of the program is its focus on high-demand areas such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and Large Language Models (LLMs). Through rigorous, hands-on learning experiences, students gain practical knowledge of the technologies shaping the future of business, science, healthcare, and countless other industries.

Consistent with Howard Payne’s commitment to a well-rounded education, the program is intentionally structured to give students the flexibility to pursue studies across the liberal arts while developing strong technical competencies. This approach encourages students to consider how data and emerging technologies influence challenges and opportunities across a variety of disciplines. The curriculum has been carefully developed and refined through years of faculty collaboration, student feedback, and ongoing assessment to ensure graduates are prepared for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.

Program Insights

TYPE: Minor
DELIVERY: Hybrid | Online
CREDITS: 21 Hours

The data science minor is the right choice for those looking to advance their careers in:

Data Analyst

Machine Learning

Data Engineers

Data Scientists

Business Intelligence Developers

AI Research Scientists

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Outside the Classroom

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Scholarships

95% of HPU students receive financial aid.

We’re passionate about making your college experience financially accessible. Our dedicated Financial Aid team will work diligently with you to explore every available opportunity and help make your HPU education affordable.

Contact

Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems

The Data Science minor is offered online through a consortium of accredited colleges and universities (the Lower Cost Models Consortium or LCMC). All courses within the program are delivered by faculty employed by partner institutions in the consortium, with technology and administrative support provided by Rize Education.

Oversight of courses offered through the consortium are reviewed and approved by HPU. Students register through HPU and receive academic credit from HPU.

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