Data Science at SAU Tech
Launch Your Career in Data Analytics, Machine Learning, and AI
Start your journey in one of today’s fastest-growing and highest-paying tech fields with the Data Science program at Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech). Beginning Fall 2024, this program is designed to give you the hands-on skills and foundational knowledge you need to thrive in fields like data analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and business intelligence.
Whether you're looking to enter the tech industry or transfer into a four-year degree program, SAU Tech’s Associate of Science in Data Science will set you up for long-term success.
Data Science Program Overview
Degree Type: Associate of Science in Data Science
Transfer Agreement: Direct transfer pathway to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville's Data Science bachelor’s program
Format: In-person and hybrid options available
Financial Aid: Eligible for the AR Future Grant
What You’ll Learn
SAU Tech’s Data Science curriculum combines statistical thinking, data-driven programming, and data visualization to help you make sense of large datasets and communicate your findings effectively to any audience.
Key areas of study include:
- Programming languages for data science (e.g., Python, R)
- Statistical analysis and inference
- Data mining and data modeling
- Natural language processing (NLP)
- Machine learning algorithms
- Structured and unstructured data handling
- Data visualization and reporting tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
- Data ethics, governance, and security
By the end of the program, you’ll be able to collect, clean, interpret, and present complex data in ways that influence business, policy, and organizational strategy.
Program Goals
The SAU Tech Data Science program is designed to help students:
Design, implement, and evaluate data-driven solutions using descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive modeling
Manage and manipulate data through secure and ethical systems
Visualize and communicate data driven insights to diverse audiences and stakeholders in a range of technical and non-technical contexts
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
Develop relevant programming and scripting skills
Apply statistical techniques to analyze data sets
Create and assess predictive models and machine learning workflows
Use professional statistical software to conduct analyses
Manage and store large datasets securely and efficiently
Apply data science to solve real-world problems and communicate results effectively
Career Opportunities in
Data Science
The demand for skilled data professionals continues to grow across every industry. With your degree in Data Science, you’ll be qualified for roles such as:
- Data Analyst
- Junior Data Scientist
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Machine Learning Assistant
- Data Engineer (with continued study)
- Healthcare or Financial Data Technician
Industries hiring data professionals include
technology, healthcare, finance, government, education, marketing, and logistics—many offering flexible or remote career paths.
Why Choose SAU Tech’s Data Science Program?
- High demand field with excellent earning potential
- Direct transfer to the University of Arkansas – Fayetteville
- Hands-on training with modern tools and languages
- Supportive instruction in small class sizes
- Eligibility for the Arkansas Future Grant to help cover tuition and fees
This is an ideal program for students with interests in math, programming, analytics, and problem solving who want to be part of the future of technology and innovation.
Ready to Get Started in Data Science?
Have questions about the curriculum, transfer options, or grant eligibility? Contact our admissions team we’re here to help you make your next move in the data driven world.
