Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Big Data Analytics Emphasis

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Overview

Analyze Big Data and Assess Algorithms With a BS in Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an Emphasis in Big Data Analytics program at Grand Canyon University is designed to help you acquire comprehensive knowledge in data science and computer software design. You will explore the intricacies of big data analysis, and evaluate and enhance existing algorithms and methodologies while practicing ways to develop your own. This program aims to actively engage you in continuous skill development, ensuring a robust understanding and application of these essential concepts.

As a student within the College of Engineering and Technology at GCU, you will be presented with various objectives, including:

  • An ability to apply knowledge of computing, mathematics and statistics
  • The capability to analyze a problem and identify and define the scientific methodologies appropriate to its solution
  • Proficiency in designing, implementing and evaluating computer-based systems, processes or programs  
  • Collaborative skills in team environments
  • An understanding of all responsibilities related to computer science and big data analytics work

$103,500

Median annual wage for data scientists in May 20221

Why GCU

Earn Your Computer Science Degree With a Big Data Analytics Focus at GCU

Big data refers to a very large volume of diverse data that can be used and collected by computing systems. Heavy volumes of data can bring with them their own challenges, such as difficulties in classifying complex datasets. Organizations rely on big data analytic experts to classify and organize big data and derive valuable insights from it.2 Within this big data analytics emphasis, you will be taught how to use and design methods and software applications that mine and analyze data from a variety of sources. You will also be expected to acquire a strong foundation in data science and data analytics software development.

All Computer Science Emphasis Programs

Business Entrepreneurship

Program Opportunities

You will have opportunities to acquire a framework of knowledge in computer science and other sciences, with a deep dive into calculus, linear algebra, discrete math and statistics. You will progress through sequentially arranged coursework that is in-depth in nature and broad in scope. This multidisciplinary bachelor’s in computer science covers relevant topics in chemistry, biology and human-computer interaction.

Coursework

Explore Big Data Analytics Course Topics

In this degree, you will be taught how to work in a variety of information systems and how to create systems that analyze data with greater efficiency. The goal of this program is to graduate work-ready professionals who can be prepared to improve and support an organization's processes and extraction of actionable information from data collected.

In order to provide you with opportunities to develop industry-aligned competencies, our big data analytics courses offer a blend of theoretical and hands-on curriculum that cover topics such as:

Large-scale data processing

Statistical analysis

Computer programming using discipline-specific tools and methods

Data mining and interpretation

Pattern analysis

System architecture and organization

Information assurance and security

Data modeling

Social network theory

Search engine design

Careers

Career Paths for Graduates With a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science

After graduating with this degree, you may have the capacity to adopt new developments in computer science technologies and may seek work in applying theoretical foundations to solve practical problems in fast-paced, high-tech environments. This BS in Computer Science degree will teach you communication and collaboration skills to work with organizational stakeholders.

With a firm foundation of computer science and big data analytics competencies, you may be prepared to pursue work opportunities as:

Computer and information system managers

Computer programmers

Software developers

Information security analysts

Software quality assurance analysts and testers

Data scientists

Computer and information research scientists

Computer network support specialists

Database architects

Web developers

Web and digital interface designers

Postsecondary computer science teachers

Male Big Data Analytics students getting help from male professor in class
Accreditation

Graduate From an Institutionally Accredited University

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an Emphasis in Big Data Analytics program is accredited by the Computer Science Accreditation Commission of ABET. For more information on the ABET accreditation of computer science programs and other university licensures, please visit our University Accreditation and Regulations page.

With a longstanding history of academic excellence and outstanding student support, GCU is proud to be an institutionally accredited university committed to students. Furthermore, the Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968.

FAQ

BS in Computer Science: Big Data Analytics Emphasis FAQs

If you’re eager to pursue a STEM career, then a bachelor’s degree in computer science may be a good choice for you. The following FAQs and answers can provide a starting point for more career-related research.

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Start Your Journey Today

If you are ready to pursue your future in computer science and big data analytics, join us at GCU. Fill out the form on this page to learn more about this program.

Apply Now

1 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Data Scientists as of May 2022, retrieved on Nov. 6, 2023. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may also impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the BLS. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers from across the country with varying levels of education and experience and does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as data scientists. It does not reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country. It also does not reflect a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. You may also wish to compare median salaries if you are considering more than one career path. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, and accept employment from, determines salary not only based on education, but also individual characteristics and skills and fit to that organization (among other categories) against a pool of candidates.

2 Segal, T. (2022, Nov. 29). What is Big Data? Definition, How it Works, and Uses. Investopedia. Retrieved on Nov. 6, 2023.

3 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Data Scientists, retrieved on Nov. 6, 2023.

4 Geeks for Geeks. (2023, March 27). Difference Between Big data and Data Science. Retrieved on Nov. 6, 2023.

5 BrainStation. (n.d.). What Does a Data Analyst do? Retrieved on Nov. 6, 2023.

6 Coursera. (2023, June 15). What is Big Data Analytics? Definition, Benefits, and More. Retrieved on Nov. 6, 2023.

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