Many students consider pursuing a data analytics degree because we live in a world in which we are constantly exposed to a flurry of information.
Not only are we a web-based culture, but businesses, government entities, healthcare providers, and a variety of organizations also depend on accurate data and thorough data analysis in order to thrive.
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If you possess strong analytical skills and an interest in retrieving, interpreting, and organizing data, an online degree in data analytics might help you turn these talents into a career in this growing field.
Online Bachelors in Data Analytics Degrees
A bachelor’s in data analytics degree program is centered around providing students with the necessary skills to pursue various careers in the data and information technology field.
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Individuals who graduate from an online data analytics program frequently pursue careers in computer science, information technology, data science, and database design and administration. These roles may be part of a business’s strategic operations. They’re needed in a range of sectors, including supply chain management or distribution, healthcare, marketing, finance, and government.
When considering the difference between data analytics vs. data science, keep in mind that a data science degree can help you develop skills such as:
- Applying multiple types of analysis to interpret a variety of data
- Designing data storage and analysis software based on a specific set of requirements
- Respecting the ethical and legal boundaries of data retrieval and research
- Communicating with clients, colleagues, direct reports, and leadership
- Programming in a variety of languages, such as R and Python
- Preparing and organizing data for storage or analysis
Your data analysis skills have the possibility of providing insight that could guide strategic operations for an organization or manage cloud-based computing systems. These skill sets are also strategic for network administration.
Professionals who hold a degree in analytics may also go on to consider an adjacent career related to information technology. For example, some graduates may teach data analytics and programming skills to younger students. Others might develop software, games, applications, and systems.
Plus, some students may decide to continue their educations and pursue a traditional or online masters in data analytics degree.
Data Analytics Careers and Salaries
Graduates from an online data analytics program may choose to pursue a variety of careers, many of which are in the field of computers, information technology and systems, data, and programming.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some of the potential career paths related to data analytics.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $159,010 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $131,490 |
| Software Developers | $120,730 |
| Data Scientists | $100,910 |
| Database Administrators | $96,710 |
| Mathematicians and Statisticians | $96,280 |
| Financial Analysts | $95,570 |
| Management Analysts | $93,000 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $82,360 |
| Market Research Analysts | $63,920 |
While some employers may prefer candidates with further education or industry certifications, pursuing an online degree in data analytics can be the first step toward a variety of professions.
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Analytics professionals are in high demand in a range of fields, including finance, marketing, government, business, and healthcare.
Bachelor of Data Analytics Curriculum & Courses
The courses offered as part of a bachelor’s in data analytics degree program will vary from school to school.
Some common courses include:
- Organizational Communication: In this course, you’ll examine how to connect and communicate with colleagues, clients, and leadership to discuss challenges and outcomes.
- Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design: This course helps you determine how to use tools and techniques to build a system based on business rules and use-case analysis.
- Designing for User Experience: User Experience, or UX, is an important factor in the success of system usability, as this course explores.
- Statistics and Probability: This course introduces the software and skills used in determining statistics and probability in a data analysis setting.
- Database Management: In this course, you’ll learn about the technology, security, and creation of data tables for analytical purposes.
- Accounting and Finance for Analytics: This course includes developing databases for accounting as well as inventory and cash flow record-keeping purposes.
- Marketing Basics: Students who plan to apply their degree in analytics to a career in business may wish to explore marketing strategy, ROI analysis, and demographics.
- Structured Query Language (SQL): Learning SQL-based inquiries is helpful for developing relational databases and managing deep-dive data requests.
- Predictive Analytics: You’ll learn how to use applications such as R, Python, KNIME, and WEKA to examine, extrapolate, and complete a full modeling cycle of data.
- Business Management and Leadership Theory: This course helps you prepare for potential roles in corporate, non-profit, and entrepreneurial roles following the completion of an online data analytics program.
A data analytics program will expose you to a variety of software, technology, systems, applications, and analytical processes and theories to prepare you for many different career opportunities.
Data Analytics Major Admissions Requirements
Each online data analytics program will have its own individual admissions requirements. You may wish to review the application guidelines of your prospective school before you start the process.
Some common requests from undergraduate schools include:
- SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
- Prior educational transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
As part of the application process, some schools also request essays or writing samples, along with an interview with a member of the school’s admissions department.
Online Data Analytics Programs Accreditation
As you search for the right school to attend to earn your data analyst degree online, you may wish to pay particular attention to schools that are regionally accredited.
Legitimate regional accrediting organizations are recognized by CHEA or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Postsecondary schools can receive accreditation following a careful analysis of their educational programs and outcomes. As a result, many employers, certification boards, and professional associations require students to earn their data analytics degree from a regionally accredited school.
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If you wish to continue your education, attending an accredited school for your undergrad could also help you qualify for masters degree programs, such as an on-campus or online data science masters degree program.
Data Analytics Licensure and Certifications
Depending on the career path you intend to pursue, you may benefit from some of the many professional licenses and certifications offered to those in the data analytics field.
Popular options include:
- Microsoft Certified Solution Expert (MCSE)
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certifications, such as AWS Certified Big Data–Specialty
- CompTIA Certifications, including A+ and Network+
While certifications and licensing are not required for all data analytics jobs, many employers encourage their teams to receive professional certifications to demonstrate their high levels of knowledge.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Most college students consider a variety of financial aid options to help offset the cost of tuition and additional school fees.
Those who wish to pursue need-based financial assistance at the federal level may start by completing the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Additionally, some schools offer their own payment plans or financing options. Your school may also offer scholarships and grants based on your area of study and academic performance.
You can connect with prospective schools’ admissions departments for details surrounding these options. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement or educational assistance programs to help workers pay for their college degrees.
What Is a Data Analytics Bachelors Degree?
A bachelors degree in data analytics is a comprehensive study of statistics, interpretation, programming, communication, and organization.
As part of this degree program, you’ll be tasked with reviewing many different sets of data. You can learn how to organize them, how to prepare them for analysis, and how to apply different analytical processes to interpret them. Communication is also an important part of a data analytics degree program.
Data professionals often report on their findings to provide insight into strategy, consumer behavior, demographic insights, financial performance, statistical analysis, and more.
Is Data Analytics a Good Career?
Yes, data analytics is a good career for many professionals. Individuals who pursue an education in data analytics may choose from a variety of careers, many of which are experiencing significant growth.
Many data analytics majors become data scientists or database administrators and architects, but they may also choose to work in computer programming or software development. Some professionals choose to become educators, helping students learn more about information technology and data analysis. Others work in information research sciences or operational analysis.
The median salary for data scientists is $100,910, which is much higher than the average salary for all occupations (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Data Analyst?
While it is possible to start your career as a data analyst without a degree, many employers give preference to applicants who have a bachelor’s degree and experience in the field.
A bachelors program in data analytics helps prepare you for employment in today’s information technology and data fields. You’ll likely study the most recent versions of programming languages, analytical theory, and technology. Some employers may request additional education or certification. A background in mathematics, computer science, statistical analysis, and data science could be helpful, too.
What Can You Do with a Data Analytics Degree?
Data analytics majors are often prepared for a variety of professional paths. Many pursue careers in analytics, which the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates is a rapidly growing sector.
Analytics roles are commonly found in healthcare, finance, marketing, and business. Some graduates become database administrators, using their knowledge of information queries to implement secure data storage methods.
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Computer and information systems managers are also a quickly growing segment of the workforce, using their knowledge of both systems and data to establish usage policies and procedures. Other graduates may choose to work as developers, programmers, or quality analysts for these professionals.
What Does a Data Analyst Do?
Data analysts may be responsible for an array of tasks, depending on their role and the organization by which they are employed.
In many cases, the analyzed data will help stakeholders make decisions surrounding efficiency, performance, strategy, customer satisfaction, and profits. So, it is important that data analysts are able to research, review, and interpret data efficiently and correctly.
They often present their findings to others within an organization and monitor this data for significant changes. They may create programs or applications that help them monitor and arrange data for future analysis, too.
Is Data Analytics Hard?
Data analysis combines several different skill sets. This may include research, analytics, organization, communication, mathematical computations, and statistical studies.
Many data analysis programs will ask students to learn programming languages such as R and Python as well as work with visualization tools like Tableau. You may also study applied machine learning, which is a quickly growing skill within data analytics and information technology worldwide.
A data analytics program encourages students to immerse themselves in data, digital tools, and aspects of the business—including finance, accounting, and management—to provide them with a solid background.
What Jobs Can You Get with a Data Analytics Online Degree?
Many professionals who have earned a data analyst degree online work in a data, computer, or information technology career. Common roles include data scientist, operations research analyst, marketing analyst, management analyst, database administrator, programmer, developer, and information systems manager.
Data analytics can help professionals who need to review, interpret, and explain the significance of large quantities of data. This data could range from consumer buying habits to medical equipment expenses or even government policy enforcement.
As a result, data analytics majors may pursue careers in a variety of professional settings, including corporate businesses, medical facilities, or government offices.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Data Analytics Degree?
The length of time required to earn your data analytics degree depends on your enrollment status as well as the schedule and curriculum of the program you choose.
In many cases, those who select a program that follows a traditional, 16-week semester schedule will complete their bachelor’s degree in 4 years. This will likely take longer for those who are enrolled part-time. If the school you select offers 8-week semesters, you may be able to finish your degree more quickly with full-time and year-round enrollment.
What’s the Difference Between a Business Analytics vs. Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
Business analytics and data analytics degrees involve compiling and reviewing information for businesses, but here are some differences.
A bachelor’s degree in business analytics teaches students to:
- Identify trends in order to optimize performance
- Use data to find both problems and solutions
- Understand business practices and profit management
A student with a bachelor’s degree in data analytics:
- Recognizes patterns in data to predict future scenarios
- Uses raw data to discover helpful business information
- Often has a strong background in computer science and math
Additionally, data analytics students may choose a career path that is not related to business.
Is a Bachelor Degree in Data Analytics Worth It?
Yes, a bachelor degree in data analytics is worth it for many students. While many graduates use their online degree in data analytics as a starting point for a career as a data analyst or scientist, there are many professions in which this degree is useful. Some work as programmers, software developers, or database administrators. Others pursue analyst roles in healthcare, marketing, finance, and business.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many professions in which data analysis is a core skill is growing rapidly. For example, mathematician and statistician roles are expected to grow by 31% over the next ten years, while operations research analyst roles are predicted to grow by 23%.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Data Analytics Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arizona State University offers a BS in Business Analytics that can be earned online. Each course is 7.5 weeks long. Potential courses include Introduction to Information Systems, Introduction to Business Data Analytics, and Business Data Warehouses and Dimensional Modeling. The curriculum is designed to teach how to manage big data initiatives.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Ball State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics with a concentration in Environmental Systems Analytics that may earned online, on campus, or in a hybrid format. Online courses are asynchronous, and many students choose to take just one or two at a time.
Ball State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Capella University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a minor in Data Analytics. Classes use virtual labs and interactive simulations to provide hands-on experience. The program offers chances to work with clients on real-world projects and gain eligibility to take professional certification exams from Cisco, CompTIA, and SAS.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado Technical University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration—Data Analytics. It is designed to be flexible for students with busy schedules. CTU’s Fast Track exams allow qualifying students to earn college credit for prior knowledge.
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
DeVry University offers an online program for a Bachelor’s in Software Development with a specialization in Big Data and Analytics. Classes start every 8 weeks. Potential courses include Introduction to Technology and Information Systems, Programming with Objects, and Process Improvement and Machine Learning. The program provides accepted students with a complimentary laptop.
DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Eastern Oregon University offers a BS, a BA, and a BAS in Data Analytics. The program is available 100% online. Classes are small and taught by expert faculty. They use an asynchronous format for maximum flexibility. To graduate, students are asked to complete a capstone project in which they try to solve a real-world problem.
Eastern Oregon University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics that can be earned online. On-campus courses are 15 weeks long, while online courses are 8 weeks long. All courses are taught from a Christian worldview. Potential courses include Introduction to Computer Technology and Analytics, Fundamentals of Accounting, Introduction to Marketing, and Business Statistics.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Herzing University offers an online program for a BS in Information Technology with a concentration in Data Analytics. Classes have both daytime and evening meeting times to help provide flexibility for non-traditional students. Online students have access to academic advising, tutoring, tech support, and other services. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Liberty University offers a BSBA in Data Analytics that can be earned 100% online. Each course is just 8 weeks long, and the average student can finish the program in 3.5 years. Potential courses include Practical Analytics, Business and Economic Forecasting, and Database Concepts for Analytics.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Lynn University offers a BS in Data Analytics. The program is 100% online and has three start dates every year. The student-to-faculty ratio is just 18-to-1. Potential courses include Financial Reporting and Management Decisions, Data Mining and Reporting, Cloud and Mobile Security, and Advanced Business Intelligence.
Lynn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Mid-America Christian University’s Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics is available on campus and online. Online classes are typically just 5 weeks long and taken one at a time. Class sizes are small, and tutoring is available. MACU emphasizes Christian principles and spiritual growth in addition to academic learning.
MACU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Northeastern University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics that may be started in the fall, spring, or summer. The program is taught by expert faculty and provides opportunities to complete hands-on learning projects. Potential courses include Database Management Systems, Structured Query Language (SQL), and Intermediate Statistics for Data Analytics.
Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Purdue University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Analytics. Each course is 10 weeks long, and students typically commit 15 to 18 hours per week to their studies. Concentrations are available in Cloud Computing, Network Administration, Game Development, Supply Chain Management and Logistics, and Information Security and Assurance.
Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Rasmussen University offers an online program for a Bachelor’s in Data Analytics. The program is career-focused and provides many hands-on learning opportunities. The program offers the chance to earn a Data Analytics SAS Joint Certificate. The curriculum is also designed to prepare students for other SAS professional certifications.
Rasmussen University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Southern New Hampshire University’s online BS in Data Analytics program aims to teach how to solve real-world problems and use professional analytical tools. There are no set login times, and the online classroom provides around-the-clock access to coursework. An optional concentration is available in Project Management for STEM.
SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education, Inc.
Strayer University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Data Analytics. The program requires the completion of 40 courses, and each one is 11 weeks long. Potential courses include Web Design and Development, Network Security Fundamentals, Decision Support and Business Intelligence, and Object-Oriented Computer Programming I.
Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Thomas Edison State University offers a BS in Data Science and Analytics. Potential courses include Predictive Analytics I—Machine Learning Tools, Predictive Analytics II—Neural Nets and Regression, Forecasting Analytics, and Introduction to R Programming. TESU’s online courses are designed to work around the needs of working adults.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Richmond offers a Bachelor of Professional Studies with a major in Data Analytics. Applications are accepted for the fall, spring, and summer. Potential courses include Leadership in the Global Environment, Introduction to Analytics, Data Ethics, and Predictive Analytics. Classes meet in the evenings.
The University of Richmond is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Washington State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Analytics that can be earned 100% online. The curriculum covers applications for math and statistics and offers opportunities to gain hands-on experience working with real industry datasets. Graduates of the program pursue a variety of job opportunities.
Washington State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Western Governors University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Data Management and Data Analytics with start dates on the first of every month. Potential courses include Data Systems Administration, IT Applications, Introduction to Programming in Python, Web Development Foundations, and Machine Learning. The program also requires the completion of a capstone.
Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Getting Your Bachelor in Data Analytics Degree Online
Data analytics professionals are in high demand in a range of sectors, including healthcare, business, finance, marketing, and government.
Each online data analytics program will have its own unique offerings, so you may wish to take some time to find a program that will help you gain skills that are helpful for your specific career goals. You can take a look at each program to view its course offerings as well as any available specialties or concentrations.
The sooner you start exploring accredited data analytics programs, the sooner you can begin your educational journey in this growing field.
