A data analytics degree is beneficial for those interested in collecting and analyzing data, especially as businesses and organizations increase their use of data to forecast trends and gain insight.
This degree can be useful for several data analyst careers as well as for similar positions that involve working with data. You can learn methods and techniques used to collect, analyze, store, and transform data to help organizations make data-driven decisions.
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A data analytics degree can be applied to a range of industries, such as marketing, healthcare, business, education, finance, and agriculture.
Online Data Analytics Degrees
A data analytics bachelor’s degree online can teach you how to gather, analyze, and maintain data to help businesses and other organizations make data-driven decisions. The degree may be beneficial to you if you’re interested in a career as a data analyst or similar role.
The curriculum of a BS in Data Analytics includes general education courses and major coursework in data analytics and business. A strong background in mathematics, statistics, and computer science is recommended, as these subject areas can introduce you to important concepts essential to understanding data analysis.
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Most online data analyst degree programs offer general education courses that introduce you to these foundational topics to prepare you for data analysis major requirements.
Some key topics introduced in the major coursework of data analytics undergraduate programs include:
- Data analysis tools and techniques
- Data collection and management methods
- Emerging data analytics technologies
- Interpretation of data to find patterns and inform solutions
- Data visualization
Data analytics is a key aspect in many business and organization operations. It’s often used to help businesses make informed, data-driven decisions based on the findings presented by a data analyst.
There are several types of data analysts that specialize in different industries and areas of data analytics, such as:
- Marketing research analyst
- Operations research analyst
- Financial analyst
- Information security analyst
A bachelors degree in data analytics is designed to teach you how to forecast trends and patterns based on current data and how to present these findings using various methods. This program explores techniques and tools used to gather and manage data. You can also learn how to transform data to make it understandable and presentable to different audiences.
Hands-on projects may be included in major courses to help you gain an understanding of how data analysis methods and techniques are applied in different contexts.
Data Analytics Careers & Salaries
Many businesses and industries rely on data collection and analysis to address problems and make improvements. Data analytics is used in several industries, such as finance, business, healthcare, government, and telecommunications.
There are several types of data analyst positions, such as marketing research analyst, operations research analyst, and intelligence analyst. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are the annual median salaries of careers related to data analytics.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $164,070 |
| Information Security Analysts | $112,000 |
| Data Scientists | $103,330 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $102,240 |
| Database Administrators | $99,890 |
| Management Analysts | $95,290 |
| Financial and Investment Analysts | $95,080 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $85,720 |
| Budget Analysts | $82,260 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | $68,230 |
A data analyst may perform a wide range of tasks depending on the organization or service they work for. Some data analysts collect and analyze data to identify problems or gain marketing or business insight. A bachelors degree in data analytics is typically the minimum education requirement to enter the careers listed. Some positions may have additional training or work experience requirements.
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Salaries and job availability can depend on current and future job markets, level of education and work experience, and geographic location.
Bachelor in Data Analytics Curriculum & Courses
The curriculum in data analyst schooling teaches you about the methods and processes involved in data analysis, from data collection and analysis to data management and transformation.
These are some common data analytics courses that may be offered:
- Introduction to Business and Data Analytics: You can learn how data analytics is applied to the business environment, and you can be introduced to data analytics topics such as data mining and data analytics tools.
- Data Visualization: This course teaches you how to represent data using data visualization tools and software, such as Tableau.
- Introduction to Big Data: This course examines basic concepts and fundamentals of big data, including how it’s managed, manipulated, and reported.
- Gathering Requirements and Collecting Data: This course introduces you to data gathering and collection methods to diagnose problems and provide informed solutions.
- Introduction to Structured Database Environments: You can learn about databases and software used to collect, store, manipulate, and manage data.
- Role of Data Analysis in Organizations: This course explores the role data analysis plays in various organizations as well as the types of professionals who work in data analytics.
- Data Policy and Decision Making: You can learn about data policies and regulations related to data privacy and security as well as how data is used for decision-making.
- Emerging Technologies and Big Data: This course examines various systems and emerging technologies that impact the world of data, with an emphasis on how these systems and technologies can transform data analytics.
- Data Analysis Techniques: This course explores methods data analysts use to conduct data analysis, including various data analytics tools and technologies used.
- Applied Data Analysis: This course takes a hands-on approach by exploring ways data analysis methods are applied to gain insight in various contexts.
Specialized coursework related to specific industries, such as healthcare or business administration, may be offered as electives.
How to Choose a Data Analytics Online Degree Program
One of the first steps you can take toward earning a Bachelor of Data Analytics degree is exploring programs to find the right fit for you. These are some questions you can consider to help narrow down your options:
- Is the program fully online or hybrid? Some programs are offered 100% online through synchronous or asynchronous classes, while others may offer a hybrid program format with on-campus and online classes.
- Is the program or institution accredited? Accreditation is important because it assures students and future employers that a college or university meets certain quality educational standards.
- Do the courses offered support your interests? Course offerings can vary depending on the college or university, so looking at the curriculum can give you some insight into key topics that will be explored.
- How much does the program cost? Tuition and other expenses associated with online programs can widely vary depending on the college or university, and some institutions may offer different financial aid opportunities.
Many schools have a request information form you can fill out to get in contact with a faculty or admissions member and find out more about the program and what it offers.
Data Analysis Degree Admissions Requirements
Along with the submission of an application form, these are some other materials that may be requested to be considered for admissions:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Official transcripts
- SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
Official transcripts are typically requested to review prior coursework completed at the high school or college level. Some schools that have a minimum GPA requirement may use your transcripts to determine admissions eligibility.
SAT or ACT scores may be required or optional depending on the school. If required, these scores may be used to determine placement level or admissions eligibility.
Data Analytics Degrees Online Accreditation
The quality of educational programs and postsecondary institutions is determined by approved regional accrediting organizations.
To receive accreditation, colleges and universities must meet or exceed a certain set of criteria defined by the accrediting agency. Accreditation may impact job opportunities, graduate admissions, and federal financial aid eligibility. It can also impact credit transferability. Associations that offer certifications may require students to hold a degree from an accredited institution.
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The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) provides a list of regional accrediting organizations as well as institutions accredited by these agencies.
Data Analytics Licensure and Certifications
Certification or licensure generally isn’t required to be a data analyst, but some employers may prefer job candidates with additional training or certification.
Some examples of professional certifications that data analysts may hold include:
- Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)
- Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst
- Associate Certified Analytics Professional (aCAP)
Data analytics certifications can demonstrate that you have the knowledge to work with specific data analytics software and perform certain tasks. To obtain certification, professionals generally need some work experience in data analytics and a passing score on the certification exam. Some certifications require a degree or some postsecondary education.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you want to receive financial assistance to help make college more affordable, you can apply for financial aid. Students who demonstrate financial need may be eligible for federal and state financial assistance.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form used to apply for federal aid. You can seek state assistance through your state’s Department of Education. Scholarships and work-study programs are other forms of financial aid.
Scholarships may be offered by colleges and universities, but they can also be awarded by nonprofits, foundations, and other community organizations. Work-study programs are available with schools that participate in the federal work-study program.
What Is a Data Analytics Bachelor Degree?
A bachelor degree in data analytics is a technical undergraduate program that introduces you to key data analysis topics essential for a career in data analytics. The program may be supplemented with foundational business data analytics courses.
The program focuses on data analysis procedures, including collecting, analyzing, and managing data. You may work with data analysis software and tools, such as Tableau and SAS, to learn how different data analysis methods are used to interpret and transform data.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Data Analytics?
A data analytics bachelors degree is designed to prepare you for various data analyst careers. Specializations may be offered in project management, business, marketing, and more so you can customize your degree to fit your desired career.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many data analyst positions require at least a bachelor’s degree for entry. Data analysts may analyze data for businesses to gather insight and inform decisions relevant to marketing strategies, consumer behaviors and trends, and product development.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Degree in Data Analytics?
A bachelors degree in data analytics typically requires 120 credit hours to graduate. If you’re enrolled full-time in a 16 week semester program, it will generally take 4 years to complete.
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Some online programs offer 8 week semesters that can be completed in less time if you stay continuously enrolled year-round. It can longer to complete if you study part-time. Many schools require students to take 12 to 15 credit hours per semester to be considered full-time.
Is Data Analytics a Good Career Path?
Yes, data analytics is a good career path for many professionals. Data analytics has become an important aspect of business operations because it allows businesses to make data-driven decisions to improve products and increase profits.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for operations research analysts is $85,720 per year. If you’re interested in working with data and providing businesses with important insight, a data analyst degree can help prepare you for these responsibilities.
Aside from data analyst careers, this type of degree can also be applied to positions like data scientist and computer and information systems manager.
What’s the Difference Between a Data Science vs. Data Analytics Major?
Portions of the curriculum for data analytics majors overlap with data science topics, but data science has a broader scope.
- Data Science Majors: These majors learn about programming languages, algorithms, data modeling, and machine learning to make data-based predictions and support business strategies and goals.
- Data Analytics Majors: These majors focus on data collection, storage, and management to analyze and interpret data and make it presentable to various audiences.
Data science combines computer science and data analytics topics in order to study data to predict future patterns and trends. Meanwhile, data analytics is more concerned with working with current data to solve problems.
What’s the Difference Between a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics vs. Business Analytics?
Data analytics and business analytics cover much of the same core major requirements, but their focus on what the data is used for slightly differs.
- Bachelor’s in Data Analytics: This program has a more general approach to data analysis methods used to gain insight for various reasons.
- Bachelor’s in Business Analytics: This program includes foundational business courses that supplement data analytics coursework, focusing on data analytics in the business environment.
A business analytics degree is beneficial for students who wish to become business data analysts. A general data analytics degree can be applied to a broader range of industries.
Is a Bachelors in Data Analytics Degree Worth It?
Yes, a bachelors in data analytics degree is worth it for many students. Data analytics is a growing industry because it helps businesses and organizations optimize performance and profits by gaining insight based on raw data.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of analyst positions is expected to grow much faster than average compared to all occupations. For example, 23% job growth is projected for operations research analysts over the next ten years.
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 Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics. Potential courses include Big Data Analytics in Business, Business Data Mining, and Business Data Warehouses and Dimensional Modeling. Classes meet fully online and are typically 7.5 weeks long. On average, the program can be completed in 4 years with full-time study.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Ball State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. The Environmental Systems Analytics concentration is designed to teach how to build and engineer databases and properly analyze data. The program requires 58 credits along with general education credits. Classes meet online, in person, or via a blended format.
Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Capella University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. The Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence concentration may be a good fit for those passionate about harnessing data for innovation. The curriculum covers topics like data storage and management, modeling, artificial intelligence, and database development. All classes are online.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
City University of Seattle offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business and Data Analytics. Available concentrations include Business Intelligence and Analytics, Data Analytics, and Data Technology Management. The curriculum consists of 180 credits. Potential courses include Enterprise Analytics, Strategic Decision Making Under Uncertainty, Business Dynamics, and Technology and Operations Management.
CityU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Colorado Christian University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. This program aims to provide students with a foundation of quantitative research, mathematics, statistics, and critical thinking. Classes are fully online and are typically 5 to 10 weeks long. The program requires 120 credits.
Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. The program’s Data Analytics concentration is designed to teach the skills of gathering, managing, and modeling data. This 180 credit curriculum is 100% online. The school offers 3 yearly start dates in summer, fall, and winter terms.
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Davenport University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics. This program boasts a convenient online learning format, one-on-one mentoring, and lifelong career counseling. The program consists of 120 credits. Graduates may pursue careers in data visualization, data mining, forecasting, statistical analysis, market research, and business intelligence.
Davenport University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
DeVry University offers a Bachelor of Science in Software Development with a concentration in Big Data and Analytics. This program aims to provide students with the skills needed to excel in data-driven roles across diverse industries. Classes are available online or via a hybrid learning model. New students can begin every 8 weeks.
DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
East Coast Polytechnic Institute University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science. The Software Development Data Analytics track focuses on leveraging data and improving processes. This program is fully online. Common careers for graduates include webmaster, game developer, app developer, database administrator, and data analyst.
ECPI University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Eastern Oregon University offers a Bachelor’s in Data Analytics. Depending on specific goals and interests, the degree may be completed as a Bachelor of Arts, Science, or Applied Sciences. The 180 required credits can typically be completed in 4 years when studying full-time. This program can be completed entirely online.
Eastern Oregon University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Florida Atlantic University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics. There are various specializations available, including Natural Sciences, Engineering, and Business. This interdisciplinary curriculum blends concepts from mathematics, engineering, computer science, business, information technology, and criminal justice. All classes meet conveniently online.
FAU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
George Fox University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. After the completion of general education requirements, the 36 required major credits may be completed in as little as 16 months of full-time study. Graduates may pursue careers as data scientists, analytics managers, data engineers, business analysts, or database administrators.
George Fox University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Golden Gate University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. The program may be tailored to specific goals with additional certificates in subjects like Tableau, HQL, Python, R, SAS, and SQL coding. This curriculum consists of 120 credits. Classes meet online or through a hybrid online and on-campus learning model.
GGU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Herzing University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. The Data Analytics concentration is designed to teach skills for a potential career as a data analyst. Classes are available online synchronously in the day or evening. Incoming applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Data Analysis. Graduates may pursue careers in corporate finance, microeconomics, strategic planning, organizational ethics, or human resource management. Classes meet fully online and are usually 8 weeks long. On average, the 120 required credits can be completed in 3.5 years with full-time study.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Lynn University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. The curriculum covers topics and skills in business acumen, innovation, data analysis, and technology. There are 3 start dates each year. Typically, the required coursework can be completed in 4 years of full-time study.
Lynn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Miami Dade College offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. Courses cover topics like database management, big data, data classification, modeling, SQL, statistical analysis, programming languages, and machine learning. The program consists of 120 credits. Coursework can be completed online or in-person.
Miami Dade College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Mid-America Christian University offers a Bachelor’s in Data Analytics. This degree can be completed as a Bachelor of Science or Business Administration. Up to 30 credits may be transferred for previous vocational, military, or educational experiences. Common careers for graduates include data engineer, data scientist, and healthcare data analyst.
MACU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Pennsylvania State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Functional Data Analytics. The curriculum centers on descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive analytics across a wide variety of industries. The program utilizes a fully online learning model and requires 122 credits.
Penn State is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Rasmussen University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. Courses cover topics like data extraction, manipulation, analysis, and visualization. The degree can be completed conveniently online while maintaining access to traditional on-campus resources and support. After completing general baccalaureate requirements, the major’s requirements may be completed in as little as 18 months.
Rasmussen University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
San Jose State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Science and Data Analytics. This curriculum aims to teach the skills needed to solve problems and support the relationship between people, technology, and data. The program requires 60 major-specific credits. Classes meet online and are typically 16 weeks long.
SJSU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
South College offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. The school also offers a Data Analytics concentration. On average, the required coursework can be completed in 42 months when attending classes full-time.
South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern New Hampshire University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. Graduates may pursue careers as data analysts, business analysts, operations analysts, or management analysts. The program utilizes a fully online, asynchronous learning model. Up to 90 credits may be transferred into the program.
SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Strayer University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a specialization in Data Analytics. Potential courses include Ne2rk Server Administration, Communication at Work, Perimeter Defense Techniques, Computer Forensic Technology, and Ne2rk Penetration Testing. The curriculum consists of 40 courses, each spanning 11 weeks. The degree can be completed entirely online.
Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Thomas Edison State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics. The curriculum focuses on concepts like predictive analytics, interactive data visualization, financial risk modeling, database queries, programming, and spatial statistics. This program is housed entirely online. On average, the required coursework can be completed in 4 years.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Kansas offers a Bachelor of Professional Studies with a concentration in Applied Data Analytics. Common careers for graduates include financial analyst, controller, data analyst, data scientist, accounting manager, and business analyst. The curriculum consists of 120 credits, and the coursework can be completed fully online.
The University of Kansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Richmond offers a Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies. The degree program also has a Data Analytics specialization. Potential courses include Data Visualization, Prescriptive Analytics, Computer Programming in Java, Applied Statistics, and Data Ethics. All classes meet 100% online.
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 Data Analytics. The program aims to graduate innovative students who are ready to support future organizations in the fields of data analytics. Classes meet 100% online. The program has 3 start dates each year in spring, summer, and fall terms.
Washington State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Webster University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. The program seeks to enhance problem-solving, critical thinking, business, and leadership skills. The curriculum consists of 120 total credits. Typically, the coursework can be completed in 4 years with full-time study.
Webster University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Western Governors University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. Courses cover concepts like data management, data wrangling, statistical analysis, visualization, leadership and management, and model deployment and storytelling. On average, the program can be completed in 37 months when studying full-time. All classes meet conveniently online.
WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Getting Your Bachelor’s in Data Analytics Degree Online
A bachelor’s degree in data analytics can help prepare you for a career as a data analyst. This degree program introduces you to data analysis topics and skills that are essential to data analyst responsibilities.
Data analysts work with raw data and transform it to make it presentable to key stakeholders. They also provide materials to businesses and organizations to help gain insight and make decisions. A basic understanding of statistics and mathematics can be helpful in understanding foundational data analysis topics.
You can begin your educational journey toward a data analytics bachelor’s degree by researching online programs from accredited institutions that best support your interests and goals.
