Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences

I am an incoming first-year or transfer student, who’s my academic advisor?

You will be assigned an academic advisor during summer 2025. You can expect to receive an email in mid-to-late May with guidance and information about when and how to register for fall 2025 classes. Registration for fall 2025 classes will open for transfer students on Tues. June 17, 2025 and will open for first-years on Tues. June 24, 2025. To learn more, visit CDS Undergraduate Advising.

I am currently enrolled in classes at BU, who’s my academic advisor?

Students enrolled in the B.S. in Data Science Degree program will be assigned a CDS Undergraduate Advisor (UA). Your academic advisor’s name is available on the MyBU Student Portal in the “Advisors” section of your main Dashboard. Depending on your circumstances, you may have more than one advisor.

Who advises on degree and major requirements?

You should consult with your assigned CDS Undergraduate Advisor on degree and major requirements.

Who advises on Hub requirements?

Your assigned CDS Undergraduate Advisor will work with you to construct a plan of study that meets both major and Hub requirements.

How do I make an appointment with my advisor?

Students may schedule an appointment through Acuity. Walk-in advising hours are also available during fall and spring semesters. For more information, visit the CDS Advising Resources page. 

How do I change my track within CDS?

CDS offers a single bachelor’s degree in Data Science with two separate elective tracks. If you are interested in changing your elective track, contact your assigned CDS Undergraduate Advisor to discuss the best approach for making the transition.

How do I apply for an Intra-University Transfer (IUT) into CDS?

For policies regarding an IUT into CDS, please consult the Boston University Bulletin and the CDS Policies & Forms page. Students considering an IUT to CDS should schedule an advising appointment through Acuity.

Who supports first-year students?

In addition to all of the faculty, advisors in the schools and colleges, residence life staff, and other students services staff across campus, BU has a team of Assistant Directors of First-Year Student Success (AD) whose sole purpose is to support first-year students as they transition to college. Each first-year student has an assigned AD – you can find their name on your MyBU Student Portal in the “Advisors” section of your main Dashboard. ADs provide guidance on a broad range of topics and help first-year students connect with the BU community – you should feel free to reach out to them with any and all questions!

If I have a question about a specific topic, where do I go?

Often you will have more than one possible source of information about a specific topic. And sometimes, if the topic is complex, you will be encouraged to consult with multiple people. The chart below gives you a starting place for common advising topics.