The School of Data Science is changing how first-year students can gain admission for the 2026-27 academic year. Assured Enrollment allows first-year students interested in data science to secure a spot in the Bachelor of Science in Data Science program without having to participate in the traditional admissions that previous classes completed.
First-year students who complete any 24 credits by the end of their first year — including two prerequisite courses — and fill out an interest form will have a spot reserved in the major without having to commit to entering it. According to Degi Betcher, director of admissions and recruiting for the School of Data Science, students who complete the interest form will be notified when the intent to enroll form — a separate, secondary form — becomes available, which is planned for sometime this month. The interest form is open to all first-year students now, and the intent to enroll form is set to have a deadline of Nov. 1.
Last year, the School of Data Science had roughly 100-125 students per class in the major, which is a three-year program. Students in classes prior to this year had to apply through the traditional application process, which requires students to take or be in progress of completing prerequisite courses by the end of their first year. Students completed an application in the spring semester and received a decision mid-June. While the traditional application method is still available to first-year students, prospective students may now apply through the Assured Enrollment program instead…