CDS Elective Choices
Incoming CGS students who are interested in exploring and/or pursuing Data Science (DS) and have not started STEM-related courses should consider taking two elective courses during their first semester at BU: one in computation and programming, and one in mathematics. Follow the information below closely for further guidance on elective course selection:
Computation and Programming: You will need to enroll in either CDS DS 100 or CDS DS 110.
If you…
- … received advanced credit from high school in AP Computer Science A, Computer Science Principles, or IB Computer Science, it is suggested you begin in CDS DS110
- Especially if your previous courses were taught in Java
- Especially if your previous courses were taught in Java
- … want to try a data science class in your first semester to ensure that you are the right major for your goals and/or have limited programming experience, enroll in CDS DS 100
- … have some experience programming in Python but are not bringing in credits mentioned in the first bullet and want to move forward, enroll in CDS DS110
Mathematics: You will also want to enroll in a mathematics elective during your first semester. It is strongly recommended for CAS MA123 to be taken if you have little-to-no experience in calculus.
- Enroll in either CDS DS120, Foundations of Data Science I, or CAS MA123, Calculus I
While CAS MA123, Calculus I, is not a requirement for the Data Science major, the CDS mathematics sequence is fast-paced and takes important concepts to the field from the areas of Calculus II, Linear Algebra, Logic/Discrete Structures, Statistics, and Probability.
If you encounter any issues with adding your CDS courses, please contact CDS Academic Advising. Please refer to the Computing & Data Sciences pathway for information on the BS in Data Science.