The big data analytics major is designed for students wishing to pursue one of the many jobs that require solving important large-scale problems in applied science, engineering, business, industry and government as well as pursue graduate work in big data analytics.
Program Highlights
-
A minor in Computer Science is required, so that the student will develop strong programming skills for data analysis
-
The combination of Applied Mathematics and Statistics develops the ability to analyze data and generate predictive modelin
-
A senior project is required
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Risk Management Specialists
Analyze and manage risk management issues by identifying, measuring, and making decisions on operational or enterprise risks for an organization.
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Research market conditions in local, regional, or national areas, or gather information to determine potential sales of a product or service, or create a marketing campaign. May gather information on competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution.
Mathematicians
Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
Requirements
-
Math Core courses: 34 credits (GPA of 2.3)
-
Big Data specific courses: 24 credits
-
Minor in Computer Science
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Featured Courses
Use of SAS and R to handle data sets. Topics for SAS include data input, creating permanent data sets, merging data sets, creating new variables, sorting, printing, charting, formatting, IML programming, macro programming, and an overview of proc SQL and other statistical procedures. Topics for R include data structure, control structure, writing functions, and graphics. Prerequisites: grade of C or better in STAT 130M or equivalent and a grade of C or better in MATH 316 or equivalent or permission of instructor.
An introductory course on machine learning. Machine Learning is the science of discovering pattern and structure and making predictions in data sets. It lies at the interface of mathematics, statistics and computer science. The course gives an elementary summary of modern machine learning tools. Topics include regression, classification, regularization, resampling methods, and unsupervised learning. Students enrolled are expected to have some ability to write computer programs, some knowledge of probability, statistics and linear algebra. Prerequisites: MATH 312, MATH 316, and STAT 330 or STAT 331.
This course introduces students to practical applications of big data analytics. Lecture topics include an overview of the various topics in business, engineering, and government currently using big data analytics. Students will choose a project involving a real world application to explore techniques learned during other course work. Course involves written and oral presentations for students to improve communication and teamwork skills. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in STAT 331 and STAT 405. Pre- or corequisite: BDA 431.
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
Contact

Additional Programs
Are there other programs at ODU I may be interested in?
With over 120 undergraduate programs, 130 graduate programs at the master's, education specialist and doctoral levels plus a wealth of certificate and professional development programs, Old Dominion University has the program for you. Visit our academic program listing page to see other programs ODU has to offer.