Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Data Science and Public Health
100% of data science and public health majors participate in at least one internship, co-op, fieldwork or practicum.
The data science and public health combined major is designed for students aspiring to become public health data scientists in government, non-profit and for-profit organizations within the health and biomedical fields.
Data Science and Public Health Major at a Glance
Program Type
Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Internship
Guaranteed
Est. Time
4 Years
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Cost
School
Accreditation
Tell Me More About Merrimack's Data Science and Public Health Major
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The Data Science and Public Health Major
Students in the data science and public health major will learn to analyze health issues through data to develop policies, create programs to prevent disease and promote health around the globe. You’ll be equipped to work in a variety of settings from hospitals and nonprofits to government agencies and research institutions—all with the goal of improving health outcomes on a larger scale.
What You'll Study
Advanced Sports Analytics
Data Structures
Community Nutrition
Global Public Health
Discrete Mathematics
Problem Solving with Python
Skills You'll Learn

Data Science and Public Health Courses You'll Take
Problem Solving with Java
csc 1610
An introduction to computer science techniques with an emphasis on algorithms, test driven design, development and structured programming in the Java language.
Analysis of algorithms
csc 2710
This course introduces students to the basic principles and techniques for analyzing algorithms. Basic strategies for developing algorithmic solutions to problems will be covered.
Global Public Health
HSC 3103
Students will investigate how health status is measured and will review the burden of disease, risk factors and approaches to global cooperation to address health problems.
Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
Why Choose the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Public Health?
Merrimack’s Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Public Health is is an empowering field of study for anyone passionate about global health, nutritional sciences and making a real-world impact.
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE, GUARANTEED
You’ll have the chance to collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research or intern at top institutions like Beth Israel Deaconess, Boston Children’s Hospital and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
HELP COMMUNITIES IN NEED
Design programs and policies that improve community health, reduce inequality and promote wellness. Take on pressing issues like fighting disease, bridging health gaps and solving environmental problems.
INDUSTRY-RELEVANT SKILLS
Data scientists are hired by a wide range of companies. At Merrimack, you’ll major in a degree designed specifically by data scientists and industry experts and managed by a corporate advisory board.
Career Outlook: Where Can a Data Science and Public Health Degree Take You?
Career Outcomes Rate
94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 in Nursing & Health Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.
Experiential Learning
100% of data science and public health majors participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack.
Graduate School
Northeastern University, Sacred Heart University, MCPHS and Merrimack are just some of the graduate programs Nursing and Health Sciences graduates are attending.
Jobs with a Data Science and Public Health Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in the field of cybersecurity or business administration. Positions may include:
- Biostatistician
- Business Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Epidemiologist
- Health inspector
- Health educator
- Hospital administrator
- Public-health analyst
Beyond the Classroom

Student Life
You’ll have endless opportunities to find your fit, get involved and pursue what makes you happy—all while making lifelong friends (and memories!).
Explore your passions alongside others with similar interests, whether that means a cappella singing or outdoor adventuring.
- 70+ student organizations
- Division I Athletics, club and intramural sports
- Beloved traditions like Homecoming, Block Party and Spring Concert
- Fraternities and sororities

Internships & Co-Ops
Our students gain valuable work experience and connections with leading companies through guaranteed internships and the Warriors at Work co-op program. Recent placements include:
- Interning with Homeland Security Investigations, shadowing special agents
- Interning at Delta Tech-Ops, working in components engineering
- Working as a tax intern at Baker Tilly

Research with Faculty
With access to cutting-edge tools, undergraduate students can collaborate with faculty on research projects that can lead to presentations and publications.
- Explore the complexities of the human mind in a state-of-the-art psychology lab.
- Understand how inflammation affects immune cell aging in our Shared Instrumentation and Research Facility.
- Build fully functional battle bots for competitions.

Study Abroad
Global Merrimack provides transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Our 30+ study abroad programs include semesters abroad, faculty-led trips and international internships.
- Explore and study in the Dominican Republic or Iceland.
- Immerse yourself in cities like Dublin, Madrid or Rome.
- Experience a semester at sea or intern in vibrant cities like London or Paris.

Service Learning
Community and service are at the heart of our Augustinian mission.
Over 1,000 students work together to engage in hands-on service learning projects each year, supporting our communities and those in need.
- Participate in our campus-wide Mack Gives Back volunteer days.
- Spend your winter, spring, or summer break on an immersive SEND trip in the U.S. or abroad, helping those in need.
- Tutor students in nearby school districts.
See for Yourself
Programs Related to the Data Science and Public Health Major
Explore other areas and where they can take you.
Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)
At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!
Upcoming Events

Info Session & Campus Tour
Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays
Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.
Merrimack College Awards & Recognition
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2024)
- Most Innovative Schools (#5)
- Regional Universities North (#39)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#19)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#15)
- Best Value Schools (#51)
Tell Me More About Merrimack's Data Science and Public Health Major
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