Introduction
Data Science is an interdisciplinary field that combines computational, mathematical, and statistical thinking to data-rich problems in a wide variety of fields in a responsible and ethical manner. This includes the ability to manage, process, model, gain meaning and knowledge, and present data. Data Science is one of the fastest growing career sectors in Wisconsin and across the nation.
By its very nature, the field of data science is one that teaches novel and cutting-edge ways to engage in the “continual sifting and winnowing by which alone the truth can be found.”
Data Science is a global field; throughout your career you’ll get to work with individuals and companies from all over the world, with a diverse range of backgrounds, beliefs, and ideas. A study abroad experience can open your mind to a new culture and language that will shape you into a global citizen.
Planning Ahead
Data Science students are encouraged to work closely with their advisor to plan their study abroad experience. The typical recommendation is to take general education or elective courses abroad and take their foundational coursework at UW-Madison.
Data Science majors who are in the College of Letters & Science need to complete at least 15 credits of work in the major/department on campus. We recommend taking major coursework (listed as Foundational Data Science and Electives on your DARS report and in the Guide) at UW-Madison. There are several study abroad programs that offer popular advanced level Computer Science, Statistics and Math coursework. Beyond that, there are no requirements for particular coursework you need to take here on campus versus abroad and therefore it is possible to graduate abroad.
Data Science certificate students need to complete a minimum of 16 credits with at least 9 credits taken at UW-Madison (see the Guide here). Courses taken in a study abroad program will count toward the 9 credits.
Classes that Data Science students typically take abroad include:
- Breadth courses (Social Sciences, Humanities, Literature, Natural Sciences)
- Language courses
- Data Science Elective coursework including upper-level Computer Sciences, Mathematics, or Statistics courses
If graduating in four years is very important, creating a four-year plan with your academic advisor can help.
Mapping your Study Abroad Experience as a Data Science Major
Freshman Year
Freshman year is typically spent taking introductory programming courses and calculus. Start exploring potential programs you would be interested and attend the annual Study Abroad Fair.
Sophomore Year
During their second year, students are typically continuing their foundational course sequence and taking classes like STAT 240, STAT 340, and linear algebra. This is also a great time to meet with your advisor and map out a plan to fit study abroad into your 4-year plan.
Junior Year
This is the most popular year to study abroad, as most of the foundational Data Science coursework is complete. There are several programs that will allow you to take various advanced level Data Science elective courses. Make sure to keep in touch with your DS advisor while abroad to make plans for you next semester when you return.
Senior Year
Is it possible to study abroad senior year? Definitely! This takes more careful planning to ensure you are meeting all graduation requirements, but it’s absolutely an option. Keep in mind that a lot of post-graduation recruitment in tech happens in the fall of your senior year. Going abroad senior year will mean doing most of this remotely.
Mapping your Study Abroad Experience as a Data Science Certificate Student
Because there are fewer courses required for the certificate, there is more flexibility in when you go abroad. It is recommended you take the foundation courses at UW-Madison. Beyond that, a study abroad program can fit into any semester.
Questions to Ask
Your Academic Advisor in the Department of Statistics
- What classes should I take here at UW-Madison, both for the major and my degree?
- How do my other goals align with a study abroad experience (i.e. Honors in the Major, attending graduate school, etc.)?
- How much room do I have outside of my major and breadth requirement to take unique electives only offered abroad?
Your Study Abroad Advisor
- What classes can I take abroad?
- How and when do I select courses for my program?
- When will I know course equivalents for my program?
- What is the class structure like abroad?
Programs for Major Students
The Department of Statistics has identified programs that offer Data Science coursework, typically at the advanced level. These programs vary in length, course offerings, language of instruction, and cost. If you do not have specific major requirements you need to fulfill abroad, you have more flexibility in program choice.
Asia
China
University of Hong Kong Exchange
Hong Kong University of Science & Technology Exchange
South Korea
Yonsei University Exchange
Europe
Czech Republic
IFSA Tech Career Accelerator
Denmark
DIS – Study Abroad in Scandinavia
University of Copenhagen Exchange
England
University of Leeds Exchange
University of Westminster
University of Bristol Exchange
Germany
Academic Year in Freiburg (AYF)
Wales
Cardiff University
Oceania
Australia
University of Sydney Exchange
Macquarie University Exchange
New Zealand
University of Auckland*
Programs for Certificate Students
Students have been able to earn credits for the Data Science certificate on these programs. These programs vary in length, course offerings, language of instruction, and cost. If you do not have specific certificate requirements you need to fulfill abroad, you have more flexibility in program choice.
Europe
Denmark
Danish Technical University Engineering Exchange*
DIS – Study Abroad in Scandinavia
University of Copenhagen Exchange
England
London School of Economics
University of Bristol Exchange
Germany
Academic Year in Freiburg (AYF)
Ireland
IFSA National University Ireland
Oceania
Australia
IES Direct Enrollment – University of New South Wales
University of Queensland Exchange
*Must be an engineering major to apply.
There are many programs that may not be directly related to Data Science, but may complement your studies by doing research, practicing a language, learning about another culture or region, or earning credit towards an additional major or certificate. Use the Program Search to identify programs by region, country, language of instruction, duration, or subjects taught.