A student smiles as she sits at a table with her laptop open in front of her. Other students working on projects are visible in the background.

BS in Data Science and Linguistics

The combined BS in Data Science and Linguistics (Khoury College and the College of Science) offers a strong foundation in the formal structures of human languages and the collection, manipulation, storage, retrieval, and analysis of data in various forms. You’ll learn to analyze human language data using linguistic and psycholinguistic methods — preparing  you for a range of exciting career options or to pursue advanced degrees in related fields.

Program details

Career prospects

This combined major will prepare you with a diverse skill set in data and linguistics, leading to a variety of potential career opportunities at the intersection of these exciting fields. Career prospects include:

  • Natural language processing (NLP) engineer
  • Computational linguist
  • Text analytics specialist
  • Language technology data scientist
  • Localization specialist

Co-ops and internships

Throughout your program, you will participate in co-ops that give you the chance to apply your skills and build connections in industry settings.  Recent co-ops include:

  • Software Engineering co-op at Microsoft
  • PPA Fixed Income Quantitative Research co-op at Eaton Vance Corp.
  • Analyst, Quality Assurance Technology co-op at Digitas

Research opportunities

You will have opportunities to partner on active research projects with professors who are leaders in the field. Our research areas include:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Human-centered computing
  • Natural language processing and information retrieval
  • Programming languages

Learning outcomes

In this program, you’ll learn to:

  • Apply design principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.
  • Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for effective and secure computing practice.
  • Apply data science theory, methods, and tools to translate data into clear, actionable insights.

Campus location

  • Students walk by West Village H on the Boston campus. A large, white KHOURY sign is next to the students. West Village H rises in the background.

    Boston

    Located in the heart of Boston, Northeastern’s oldest campus is home to a vibrant community of students, researchers, and faculty working across disciplines to build a better world through CS.

Applications and admissions

Deadlines

Learn more about our undergraduate early action, early decision, and regular decision options.

Degree costs

Pursuing a world-class education is an investment in your future. It’s also one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. Visit our Undergraduate Admissions site to find current Northeastern University costs. You can also estimate the cost of your degree using our College Cost Estimator or Net Price Calculator. 

Financial aid and scholarships

Northeastern University offers a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help you fund your education. You’ll receive an initial financial aid package that outlines your options after admission. Once you enroll, Khoury College has multiple scholarship opportunities for current students to continue supporting your studies. We also encourage all students to submit the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal aid and loans.   

Have questions?

Let us know if you have any questions about the application or enrollment process. We are here to help!

Meet our faculty

Get to know the engaged, experienced professors who are here to support you every step of the way.

Visit the College of Science

The BS in Data Science and Linguistics program is an interdisciplinary collaboration with the College of Science.

Get a head start on your graduate degree

In our accelerated master’s programs, you can start earning your master’s degree while you are still pursuing your undergraduate studies.

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