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University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Ann Arbor, MIPublic
$137,740 median salary · 93% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $18,516 in-state tuition
- 103 graduates annually
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Key Takeaways
- 1.data Scientists earn a median salary of $108,020 with 35% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Data Science programs include University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Wisconsin-Madison offers data science education at $9,644/year with 83% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Data Science programs analyzed using IPEDS 2024 completion data
Best Data Science Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's
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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Madison, WIPublic
$137,740 median salary · 90% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $10,006 in-state tuition
- 246 graduates annually
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New York University
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit
$137,740 median salary · 88% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 88% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $62,796 in-state tuition
- 159 graduates annually
#4
Northwestern University
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Evanston, ILPrivate nonprofit
$137,740 median salary · 95% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $67,158 in-state tuition
- 21 graduates annually
#5
Columbia University in the City of New York
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit
$137,740 median salary · 96% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $66,722 in-state tuition
- 5 graduates annually
#6
William & Mary
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Williamsburg, VAPublic
$137,740 median salary · 89% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $18,709 in-state tuition
- 42 graduates annually
#7
Dartmouth College
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Hanover, NHPrivate nonprofit
$137,740 median salary · 96% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $66,123 in-state tuition
- 17 graduates annually
#8
Tufts University
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Medford, MAPrivate nonprofit
$137,740 median salary · 94% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $69,146 in-state tuition
- 17 graduates annually
#9
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Champaign, ILPublic
$137,740 median salary · 85% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $14,975 in-state tuition
- 20 graduates annually
#10
Stanford University
Bachelor's in Data ScienceOn-campus
Stanford, CAPrivate nonprofit
$137,740 median salary · 92% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- $137,740 median salary
- $65,127 in-state tuition
- 4 graduates annually
Best Data Science Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's, Complete Program Data
#1. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's bachelor's data science program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $18,516/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 95.9
#2. University of Wisconsin-Madison — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Madison's bachelor's data science program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Madison, WI | Type: Public | Tuition: $10,006/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 95.1
#3. New York University — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks New York University's bachelor's data science program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $62,796/year | Graduation Rate: 88% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 94.8
#4. Northwestern University — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks Northwestern University's bachelor's data science program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Evanston, IL | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $67,158/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 94.6
#5. Columbia University in the City of New York — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks Columbia University in the City of New York's bachelor's data science program #5. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $66,722/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 94.1
#6. William & Mary — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks William & Mary's bachelor's data science program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Williamsburg, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $18,709/year | Graduation Rate: 89% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 93.3
#7. Dartmouth College — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks Dartmouth College's bachelor's data science program #7. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Hanover, NH | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $66,123/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 93.1
#8. Tufts University — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks Tufts University's bachelor's data science program #8. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Medford, MA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $69,146/year | Graduation Rate: 94% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 93.0
#9. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's bachelor's data science program #9. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Champaign, IL | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,975/year | Graduation Rate: 85% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 92.9
#10. Stanford University — Bachelor's Data Science
Hakia ranks Stanford University's bachelor's data science program #10. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Stanford, CA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $65,127/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Median Salary: $137,740 | Score: 92.7
Best Data Science Programs - Compare Top 5 Bachelor's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | 81/100 |
| #2 University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | 78/100 |
| #3 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | 74.6/100 |
| #4 Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | 71.1/100 |
| #5 Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | N/A | 66.7/100 |
Data from IPEDS 2024. Tuition shown is in-state for public schools.
| Rank | Program & School | Delivery | Annual Tuition | Grad Rate | Median Salary | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor, MI · Public | On-campus | $18,516 | 93% | $137,740 | 95.9 |
| #2 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI · Public | On-campus | $10,006 | 90% | $137,740 | 95.1 |
| #3 | Bachelor's in Data Science New York UniversityNew York, NY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $62,796 | 88% | $137,740 | 94.8 |
| #4 | Bachelor's in Data Science Northwestern UniversityEvanston, IL · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $67,158 | 95% | $137,740 | 94.6 |
| #5 | Bachelor's in Data Science Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York, NY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $66,722 | 96% | $137,740 | 94.1 |
| #6 | Bachelor's in Data Science William & MaryWilliamsburg, VA · Public | On-campus | $18,709 | 89% | $137,740 | 93.3 |
| #7 | Bachelor's in Data Science Dartmouth CollegeHanover, NH · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $66,123 | 96% | $137,740 | 93.1 |
| #8 | Bachelor's in Data Science Tufts UniversityMedford, MA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $69,146 | 94% | $137,740 | 93.0 |
| #9 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignChampaign, IL · Public | On-campus | $14,975 | 85% | $137,740 | 92.9 |
| #10 | Bachelor's in Data Science Stanford UniversityStanford, CA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $65,127 | 92% | $137,740 | 92.7 |
| #11 | Bachelor's in Data Science Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg, VA · Public | On-campus | $13,152 | 86% | $137,740 | 92.3 |
| #12 | Bachelor's in Data Science United States Air Force AcademyUSAF Academy, CO · Public | On-campus | — | 88% | $137,740 | 91.8 |
| #13 | Bachelor's in Data Science Case Western Reserve UniversityCleveland, OH · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $66,020 | 87% | $137,740 | 90.7 |
| #14 | Bachelor's in Data Science Pennsylvania State University-Main CampusUniversity Park, PA · Public | On-campus | $20,066 | 86% | $137,740 | 90.3 |
| #15 | Bachelor's in Data Science Smith CollegeNorthampton, MA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $64,870 | 89% | $137,740 | 90.2 |
| #16 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of Central FloridaOrlando, FL · Public | On-campus | $4,478 | 78% | $137,740 | 90.1 |
| #17 | Bachelor's in Data Science Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick, NJ · Public | On-campus | $14,222 | 84% | $137,740 | 89.8 |
| #18 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of California-DavisDavis, CA · Public | On-campus | $12,260 | 86% | $137,740 | 89.7 |
| #19 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh, PA · Public | On-campus | $20,556 | 85% | $137,740 | 89.6 |
| #20 | Bachelor's in Data Science Arizona State University Digital ImmersionScottsdale, AZ · Public | Online | $11,478 | — | $137,740 | 88.9 |
| #21 | Bachelor's in Data Science Worcester Polytechnic InstituteWorcester, MA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $59,700 | 90% | $137,740 | 88.5 |
| #22 | Bachelor's in Data Science Mount Holyoke CollegeSouth Hadley, MA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $66,780 | 84% | $137,740 | 87.6 |
| #23 | Bachelor's in Data Science Baylor UniversityWaco, TX · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $58,100 | 80% | $137,740 | 87.2 |
| #24 | Bachelor's in Data Science Denison UniversityGranville, OH · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $67,000 | 79% | $137,740 | 87.0 |
| #25 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of VermontBurlington, VT · Public | On-campus | $16,280 | 79% | $137,740 | 86.7 |
| #26 | Bachelor's in Data Science The University of Texas at DallasRichardson, TX · Public | On-campus | $10,639 | 76% | $137,740 | 86.3 |
| #27 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis, MN · Public | On-campus | $15,148 | 85% | $137,740 | 85.8 |
| #28 | Bachelor's in Data Science St Lawrence UniversityCanton, NY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $65,450 | 79% | $137,740 | 83.8 |
| #29 | Bachelor's in Data Science Centre CollegeDanville, KY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $52,520 | 81% | $137,740 | 83.5 |
| #30 | Bachelor's in Data Science New Jersey Institute of TechnologyNewark, NJ · Public | On-campus | $16,334 | 73% | $137,740 | 83.5 |
| #31 | Bachelor's in Data Science Saint Louis UniversitySaint Louis, MO · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $54,760 | 80% | $137,740 | 82.0 |
| #32 | Bachelor's in Data Science Drexel UniversityPhiladelphia, PA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $60,042 | 78% | $137,740 | 81.8 |
| #33 | Bachelor's in Data Science The College of WoosterWooster, OH · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $61,120 | 74% | $137,740 | 81.2 |
| #34 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte, NC · Public | On-campus | $3,812 | 69% | $137,740 | 78.8 |
| #35 | Bachelor's in Data Science Bennington CollegeBennington, VT · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $65,398 | 71% | $137,740 | 78.6 |
| #36 | Bachelor's in Data Science College of CharlestonCharleston, SC · Public | On-campus | $12,518 | 66% | $137,740 | 78.4 |
| #37 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of IowaIowa City, IA · Public | On-campus | $9,286 | 75% | $137,740 | 77.9 |
| #38 | Bachelor's in Data Science Beloit CollegeBeloit, WI · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $60,364 | 71% | $137,740 | 77.9 |
| #39 | Bachelor's in Data Science Quinnipiac UniversityHamden, CT · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $52,670 | 76% | $137,740 | 77.8 |
| #40 | Bachelor's in Data Science Willamette UniversitySalem, OR · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $50,880 | 71% | $137,740 | 77.3 |
| #41 | Bachelor's in Data Science University of OregonEugene, OR · Public | On-campus | $12,726 | 72% | $137,740 | 77.1 |
| #42 | Bachelor's in Data Science Ramapo College of New JerseyMahwah, NJ · Public | On-campus | $16,777 | 70% | $137,740 | 77.0 |
| #43 | Bachelor's in Data Science Calvin UniversityGrand Rapids, MI · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $39,350 | 74% | $137,740 | 76.7 |
| #44 | Bachelor's in Data Science Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton, FL · Public | On-campus | $2,522 | 63% | $137,740 | 76.6 |
| #45 | Bachelor's in Data Science Siena CollegeLoudonville, NY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $44,505 | 75% | $137,740 | 76.5 |
| #46 | Bachelor's in Data Science John Carroll UniversityUniversity Heights, OH · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $48,700 | 79% | $137,740 | 76.4 |
| #47 | Bachelor's in Data Science William Jewell CollegeLiberty, MO · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $19,320 | 68% | $137,740 | 76.3 |
| #48 | Bachelor's in Data Science Loyola University ChicagoChicago, IL · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $52,230 | 73% | $137,740 | 76.2 |
| #49 | Bachelor's in Data Science Clarkson UniversityPotsdam, NY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $58,058 | 75% | $137,740 | 76.0 |
| #50 | Bachelor's in Data Science Arizona State University Campus ImmersionTempe, AZ · Public | On-campus | $11,478 | 68% | $137,740 | 75.4 |
Showing all 50 ranked programs.
Data Science Bachelor's Degree Overview 2026
Data science is one of the most in-demand fields in technology, combining statistics, computer science, and domain expertise to extract insights from complex data. Data from 384 accredited data science bachelor's programs shows significant growth in program availability, with new degrees launching at 42 institutions in 2024 alone.
The data science degree landscape has evolved rapidly since 2010, when only 12 universities offered dedicated undergraduate data science programs. Today's programs integrate machine learning, statistical analysis, programming, and business applications to prepare graduates for roles as data scientists, AI engineers, and analytics professionals across industries.
Public universities dominate the affordable rankings, with in-state tuition averaging $11,430 annually compared to $45,280 at private institutions. However, career outcomes remain strong across all institution types, with data science professionals earning and mid-career salaries reaching $130,000.
$85,000
Starting Salary
$130,000
Mid-Career
+22%
Job Growth
13,500
Annual Openings
Career Paths
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2041Collect, process, and analyze data to help organizations make informed business decisions and identify trends and patterns.
Median Salary:$82,360
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2051Transform data into actionable business insights through reporting, dashboards, and data visualization tools.
Median Salary:$88,700
Research Scientist
SOC 19-1012Conduct advanced research in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence in academic or industry settings.
Median Salary:$142,050
Programs by State
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 48
- Median Tuition
- $13,800
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $15,200
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 28
- Median Tuition
- $11,450
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Florida
- Total Programs
- 24
- Median Tuition
- $12,300
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Illinois
- Total Programs
- 19
- Median Tuition
- $14,100
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Pennsylvania
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $16,800
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $18,900
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Ohio
- Total Programs
- 15
- Median Tuition
- $12,800
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $13,200
Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $11,600
Financial Aid and Funding Options for Data Science Students
Data science students have access to numerous funding opportunities, including federal financial aid, merit scholarships, and industry-sponsored programs. The FAFSA application leads to federal grants and loans, while many institutions offer specific scholarships for STEM majors.
Tech companies increasingly offer educational partnerships and internship programs that can offset tuition costs. Programs like Google's scholarship initiatives and Microsoft's LEAP program provide both financial support and career development opportunities for underrepresented students in data science.
Graduate assistantships at research universities often provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research duties. Many data science students also benefit from employer tuition reimbursement programs when pursuing degrees while working.
Data Science Bachelor's Degree FAQ
What's the difference between data science and computer science degrees?
Data science degrees focus specifically on extracting insights from data through statistics, machine learning, and domain expertise, while computer science covers broader computing topics including software development, algorithms, and systems. Data science programs include more statistics and domain application courses, while CS programs emphasize programming fundamentals and theoretical computer science. Both lead to lucrative careers, but data science is more specialized for analytics roles.
Do I need a strong math background for data science?
Strong mathematical foundations are essential for data science success. Most programs require calculus (through multivariable), linear algebra, probability, and statistics. Students need strong performance in high school math or completion of college-level prerequisite courses. The mathematical rigor varies by program - theoretical programs like MIT require more advanced math than applied programs.
What programming languages do data science students learn?
Most data science programs teach Python as the primary language due to its extensive libraries for data analysis (pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn). R is commonly taught for statistical analysis and visualization. SQL is essential for database management. Some programs also cover Java, Scala (for big data), and specialized tools like Tableau, SAS, or Spark depending on the curriculum focus.
Is a data science bachelor's degree worth it compared to a bootcamp?
A bachelor's degree provides deeper theoretical foundations, broader education, and leads to higher starting salaries ($85,000+ vs $65,000 for bootcamp graduates). However, bootcamps offer faster entry (6 months vs 4 years) and lower costs. Degree holders have better long-term career prospects and advancement opportunities, while bootcamp graduates can start working sooner but may need additional education for senior roles.
What are the job prospects after graduation?
Job prospects for data science graduates are excellent, with 22% projected employment growth through 2032. Top program graduates receive multiple job offers with starting salaries of $75,000-$125,000. Major employers include tech companies (Google, Amazon, Microsoft), consulting firms (McKinsey, Deloitte), financial services, healthcare organizations, and government agencies. The field offers diverse career paths from technical roles to business-focused positions.
Can I specialize within data science during my bachelor's degree?
Many programs offer specialization tracks or concentrations such as machine learning, business analytics, biostatistics, or computational linguistics. Students can often choose electives in specific domains like healthcare, finance, or marketing analytics. Some schools offer formal tracks like 'Data Science for Social Good' or 'Computational Biology.' Specialization helps differentiate candidates in competitive job markets.
How important is the school's reputation for data science careers?
School reputation significantly impacts initial career opportunities and starting salaries. Graduates from top-tier programs (MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon) have access to prestigious internships and earn 20-30% higher starting salaries. However, strong public programs like UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech also produce highly employable graduates at much lower costs. Skills and portfolio work can sometimes overcome school prestige differences.
What internship opportunities are available for data science students?
Data science internships are widely available at tech companies, startups, consulting firms, research institutions, and government agencies. Major companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon offer structured data science internship programs with competitive pay ($6,000-$10,000/month). Students also pursue research assistantships, nonprofit projects, and startup opportunities. Strong programs help industry partnerships and internship placement.
Should I choose an online or on-campus data science program?
On-campus programs offer better networking, research opportunities, and hands-on lab experiences, which can be valuable for career development. Online programs provide flexibility for working students and often cost less. Top online programs from established universities (like Georgia Tech's online offerings) maintain quality while offering convenience. Consider your learning style, career goals, and need for flexibility when choosing.
What's the difference between affordable and expensive data science programs in terms of outcomes?
While expensive private programs often have higher average starting salaries and more prestigious internships, many affordable public programs produce equally successful graduates. The key factors are accreditation, faculty quality, and career services rather than tuition cost. Public universities like UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech offer data science education at fraction of private school costs, often with comparable job placement rates.
How We Rank Data Science Degree Programs
Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024
We scored 50 bachelor's data science programs on the Hakia Score, a 0 to 100 composite drawn from federal IPEDS 2024 and BLS figures, and University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Bachelor's in Data Science sits at the top. Graduates step into a field where the median wage runs about $137,740.
Ranking Factors
Program Completions35%
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Graduation Rate25%
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Selectivity20%
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
Career Outcomes20%
National salary data for data science graduates, factored into institutional scores based on job market strength.
Ranking Categories
Best Programs
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Online Programs
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Most Affordable
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
Data Sources
- IPEDS 2024 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
- BLS OEWS 2024 — National and metro salary data by occupation
- CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.