Overview of the Programme
Data Science as an undergraduate programme is an interdisciplinary field that combines statistics, computer science, and domain knowledge to extract meaningful insights from large and complex datasets. It focuses on the collection, analysis, interpretation, and visualization of data to support evidence-based decision-making in business, science, government, and technology.
The programme typically spans four years and leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Data Science. Students gain both theoretical and practical knowledge in data analytics, machine learning, programming, database systems, artificial intelligence, and big data technologies.
Graduates are trained to become skilled data analysts, machine learning engineers, business intelligence experts, and researchers capable of solving real-world problems using data-driven approaches.
Data Science plays a transformative role in the modern digital economy, impacting nearly every industry. Its applications include:
Business and Finance:
Used in market analysis, customer insights, fraud detection, and investment strategies.
Health and Medicine:
Supports predictive analytics in disease outbreaks, personalized medicine, and healthcare management systems.
Education:
Enables student performance tracking, digital learning analytics, and resource optimization.
Agriculture:
Applies data-driven solutions for precision farming, yield prediction, and climate monitoring.
Technology and Artificial Intelligence:
Forms the backbone of automation, machine learning models, and smart systems development.
Government and Public Policy:
Facilitates evidence-based governance, census analysis, and smart city management.
Security and Intelligence:
Enhances cybersecurity through anomaly detection and threat prediction models.
Transport and Logistics:
Used for route optimization, demand forecasting, and intelligent transportation systems.
Environmental Science:
Analyzes data to track pollution, predict weather patterns, and manage natural resources.
O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
Candidates must obtain at least five (5) credit passes in the following subjects:
English Language
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
One other relevant subject (e.g., Biology, Further Mathematics, or Computer Studies)
Credits must be obtained at not more than two sittings.
UTME Subjects
Candidates must sit for and pass the following:
Mathematics
Physics
One of Chemistry, Biology, or Economics
Minimum UTME Score
Most universities require a minimum score of 180–200.
Competitive institutions may demand 220 or higher.
JAMB Subject Combination:
Mathematics, Physics, and either Chemistry or Economics.
Candidates applying for Direct Entry into 200 Level must have one of the following:
At least two A-Level passes in Mathematics and Physics or Chemistry.
ND/NCE with merit or upper credit in Computer Science, Statistics, Information Technology, or related fields.
JUPEB/IJMB with passes in relevant science or quantitative subjects.
Some universities may conduct Post-UTME screening or aptitude tests.
Candidates must have a strong background in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computing.
Programming experience (in Python, R, or SQL) or prior exposure to ICT gives an added advantage.
Some institutions may accept Further Mathematics or Computer Studies in place of a second science subject at O’Level.