Applied Statistics & Data Sciences

Major

Applied Statistics uses a variety of computational techniques and methods to visualize and explore data to establish the structure and underlying trends of that data, investigate relationships between observed phenomena, facilitate data interpretation, and aid in decision-making. Data Science expands on statistics to encompass the entire life cycle of data, from its specification, gathering, and cleaning through its management and analysis, to its use in making decisions and setting policy.

Offered by the Department of Mathematics Sciences.

Do you enjoy solving puzzles, finding meaning in numbers, or discovering trends that others miss? Are you curious about how data can help the Army make smarter, faster, and more effective decisions? The Applied Statistics and Data Science (ASDS) major at the United States Military Academy at West Point equips cadets with the skills to turn data into action - in combat, intelligence, logistics, and beyond.

What Is Applied Statistics and Data Science?

ASDS is the study of how to collect, analyze, and interpret data to solve real-world problems. This major blends math, computer science, and decision-making with hands-on application. It’s all about turning raw information into clear insights - and using those insights to lead effectively.

In today’s Army, data plays a vital role in everything from predicting threats and tracking supply chains to optimizing mission outcomes and enhancing soldier readiness. Explore the data. Make better decisions. Lead with precision. That’s what Applied Statistics and Data Science at West Point is all about.

Why Choose Applied Statistics and Data Science at USMA?

Solve High-Impact, Real-World Problems
The Army relies on data for intelligence, logistics, cyber defense, personnel management, and battlefield planning. ASDS majors are trained to lead these efforts.
Career-Ready and Future-Proof
Data science is one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand skills —- in both the military and civilian worlds.
Hands-On, Applied Learning
USMA graduates work with real data, use real coding tools, and apply what you learn in simulations, capstone projects, and Army-related scenarios.
Strong STEM Foundation + Flexibility
ASDS gives cadets the analytical power of math, the creativity of programming, and the communication skills to explain it all clearly- a perfect combo for leadership roles.

What To Do With This Major?

With a degree in Applied Statistics & Data Sciences from West Point, graduates will be ready to:

Lead in Army roles involving intel, operations, logistics, or cyber
Work in fields like data analytics, tech, health, finance, or government
Support top-level decisions using the power of data
Go to graduate school in analytics, AI, business, or public policy
Be the expert who makes smart choices under pressure - with numbers to back them up

Interested Cadets

Do you enjoy spotting patterns, solving puzzles, or working with numbers? Are you curious about how sports teams, businesses, and the Army make smart decisions using data? The Applied Statistics and Data Science (ASDS) major at West Point teaches you how to turn raw data into real answers.

This major blends math, technology, and problem-solving to help leaders make better decisions - on the battlefield, in a boardroom, or anywhere smart strategy matters.

Why Consider This Major

If a cadet is interested in math, coding, problem-solving, or making smart decisions based on evidence, this major sets them up for success. Cadets gain powerful technical skills, a clear thinking process, and the confidence to lead with clarity in a data-driven world.

Plus, they graduate from West Point with a top-tier degree, zero student debt, and the ability to apply their talents in missions that truly matter - from intelligence analysis to battlefield planning to future innovation.

What Cadets Learn

In this major, cadets learn how to collect, analyze, and use data to solve real-world problems. Topics include:

Statistics – how to make sense of data and measure uncertainty
Data Analysis & Visualization – turn spreadsheets into clear, meaningful insights
Programming for Data Science – use tools like Python or R to analyze big data
Machine Learning – teach computers to recognize patterns and make predictions
Decision Science – apply math and data to make smarter, faster choices

They work on hands-on projects that use real data to solve real problems - including ones the Army faces every day.

Choice of Electives

Cadets can build their experience with interesting electives like:

Big Data Analytics – work with massive data sets to find patterns and answers
Statistical Learning – explore how data powers predictions, like in weather, finance, or military ops
Experimental Design – learn how to plan and run smart, effective experiments
Sports Analytics – use stats to break down team performance and strategy
Data Science for Military Decision Making – apply data tools directly to Army missions

Learn More

Cadets who choose this major have the opportunity to publish in journals like Mathematica Militaris, join Pi Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society, Alpha Zeta Chapter, Golden Key - International Honour Society, Phi Kappa Phi - Oldest and Largest Collegiate Honor Society and work with the Mathematical Sciences Center as they conduct summer internships/research at various laboratories and agencies.

To learn more about enrichment in this area of study, visit the Department of Mathematical Sciences or the Center for Data Analysis and Statistics.

Applied Statistics and Data Science Major