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). Since Fall 2024, this program has been designed to provide you with the hands-on skills and foundational knowledge you need to thrive in fields such as data analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and business intelligence.


Students learn how to turn raw data into actionable intelligence through coursework in programming, mathematics, statistics, data visualization, machine learning, business analytics, and predictive modeling. The curriculum provides hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies, including Python, R, SAS, Tableau, Microsoft Power BI, AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.

Degree Type: Associate of Science

Transferability: Transfer to the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville→

Format: In Person and Hybrid

Financial Aid: Grants, Scholarships, & Loans→

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

    1. To design, implement, and evaluate a data-driven solution to meet a given set of stakeholder requirements in the context of the program's discipline, involving the collection, representation, manipulation, storage, governance, security, modeling (descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive), and data visualization.
    2. To communicate effectively (in written, verbal, technical, visual, and non-technical forms) in various professional contexts and assist decision-makers with interpreting. 

  • Learning Outcomes

    1. Develop relevant programming abilities.
    2. Demonstrate proficiency with statistical analysis of data.
    3. Develop the ability to build and assess data-based models.
    4. Execute statistical analyses with professional statistical software.
    5. Demonstrate skills in data management.
    6. Apply data science concepts and methods to solve problems in real-world contexts and communicate these solutions effectively. 

Data Science Program Overview

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.

Apply For Admissions

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.

Get In Touch

Data Science

  • Faculty: Sana Bhimani, sbhimani@sautech.edu
  • Advisor: MaShira Singleton, msingleton@sautech.edu, 870-574-4492
  • Associate Vice Chancellor for Instruction: Jodi Eppinette, jeppinet@sautech.edu, 870-574-4584