The ranking places Laney among top institutions across the country and reflects the program’s growing impact in preparing students for careers in data analytics, technology, and related fields.
TechGuide’s rankings are based on official IPEDS data (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), reported annually to the U.S. Department of Education. Programs are evaluated using student-focused metrics such as admissions selectivity, class size and faculty support, financial aid availability, graduation outcomes, and total enrollment.
Laney’s Data Science program is housed in the Computer Information Systems (CIS) Department, co-chaired by Johnnie Williams and Kim Bridges, and emphasizes hands-on learning, strong academic support, and clear transfer and career pathways.
Data Science courses and Associate of Science degrees are also available through Laney College’s Math Department, giving students multiple academic pathways into analytics and data-driven careers.
Math faculty member Derrick Smith plays a key role in that pathway, teaching Math 118: Foundations in Data Science—a critical course for students preparing to transfer or pursue data science careers. The Math 118 course aligns with UC Berkeley’s Data Science major, helping students stay on track for competitive transfer goals.
Data Science is currently the fastest-growing major in the University of California system, underscoring the strong demand for programs like Laney’s that prepare students early for this expanding field.
Students develop their skills while working with real-world data in specialized spaces like the CIS Lab and Math Lab.
Laney College offers flexible options for students interested in analytics and data-driven careers:
Certificate in Data Science Fundamentals – Build a strong foundation
A.S. Degree in Data Science (Transfer Pathway) – Ideal for students planning to continue at a four-year university
A.S. Degree in Data Analytics – Career-ready skills for immediate entry into the workforce
Students gain experience using industry-standard tools, analyzing real datasets, and receiving personalized support from faculty every step of the way.
TechGuide is a national education resource serving more than 30,000 monthly visitors, publishing data-backed rankings, faculty insights, curated learning resources, and hosting dozens of podcast conversations with educators and technology professionals across the U.S.