If you love programming, are adept at problem-solving, and want to work in a cutting-edge field, then you might consider pursuing a data science degree.
By studying data science, you can sharpen your math, computing, and analytic skills and prepare to fill a large need in today’s workforce.
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Demand for data science professionals is increasing, and an online data science bachelor degree program could provide necessary training for this lucrative field.
Online Data Science Degrees
Data science is an emerging field. It seems that nearly every organization these days collects data. Just having that data does no good, though. An organization needs to be able to do something with the information they gather.
Data science professionals make that happen. Using a complex set of tools—including algorithms, programming languages, statistics, and innovation—they develop systems for dealing with data. That can include collecting data, organizing it into useful sets, figuring out how to analyze it, and visualizing their findings for others to understand.
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A college program in data science can help you become proficient in this developing field. Not only will you learn what data science is all about, but you can also acquire the practical skills needed for doing the job well.
In a data science program, you’ll likely study:
- Advanced mathematics
- Data mining
- Data visualization
- Ethical collection and use of data
- Modeling
- Programming languages
- Statistics
In addition to taking a core set of classes, you might also have electives or a concentration track. Because data science is useful in so many sectors, these courses could provide the foundation necessary for success in a particular area. Examples include healthcare, sustainability, economics, or the natural sciences.
Some colleges offer data science as a standalone program. Others combine it for a degree in data science and analytics. These two related fields often overlap, so a joint skill set could come in handy for entry-level roles. In fact, you may find that a lot of the jobs that are available to you with a bachelor’s in data science could also be done by someone with a degree in data analytics. Examples include financial analyst or a management analyst.
If your goal is to hold the title of data scientist, then graduate studies may be in your future, making a masters in data analytics worth it for many students. A masters degree or a doctorate is often required for advanced research or leadership roles, such as being a data engineer or a machine learning scientist. If you would like to go back to college to earn an advanced degree, but don’t want to interrupt your work schedule, a growing number of universities offer both master’s in data science online and even PhD in Data Science online programs that may benefit you.
Common Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science Concentrations
Data science is relevant to many different fields, which means there are many different topics you could study during your time in school. To hone your expertise, you may want to select a concentration for your program.
Here are some common data science concentrations:
- Big Data. Enormous sets of data require a special set of programming and analytics skills, which you can focus on in this concentration.
- Healthcare Data. Today’s health systems rely heavily on data collection, management, and analytics, so you’ll study how to use data for organizational improvement and epidemiology research.
- Econometrics. If you want to do research and modeling related to economics and markets, then you may appreciate the analytic skills emphasized in this track.
- Environment. For those who care about saving the planet, an environmental concentration could teach you how to use data methods for studying ecosystems, organisms, or climate change.
- Human Mind. Data science is relevant for studies in psychology, linguistics, and other topics related to human cognition.
These sample concentrations aren’t available at every school, and some programs will have alternate options that aren’t listed here.
Data Science Careers & Salaries
Degrees for data science often lead to careers in math fields. For example, some people become statisticians who use data and technology to uncover information and guide decisions.
Others pass certification exams so that they can become actuaries in the insurance industry. Data science graduates may also pursue careers in information science, which brings together data and computing principles. Subfields in information research science include computer programming and robotics. Being a software developer is another computer-related job to consider.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following careers are related to the in-demand field of data science.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $159,010 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $131,490 |
| Software Developers | $120,730 |
| Actuaries | $105,900 |
| Data Scientists | $100,910 |
| Database Administrators and Architects | $98,860 |
| Statisticians | $95,570 |
| Management Analysts | $93,000 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $82,360 |
| Financial Analysts | $81,410 |
People with analyst jobs may have data science backgrounds. Operations research analyst jobs, in particular, can be fitting for data science graduates. Other options to consider include management analyst and financial analyst.
Some data science graduates specialize in particular fields. For example, depending on the person’s training and background, jobs might be available in urban planning or biochemistry. Management roles, such as being an information systems manager, may be available to those with experience.
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Some of these jobs commonly require a master’s degree, but employment qualifications vary depending on the employer.
Data Science Bachelor’s Curriculum & Courses
The classes that you’ll take for a data science degree program will cover a range of math and computer topics. As you advance through the curriculum, you’ll likely become equipped to tackle real-world data science problems.
Here are some course examples:
- Big Data: Through classroom lessons and projects, you can learn to use big data tools and solve problems.
- Databases: Because databases are so fundamental to this field, you may take one or more classes on the topic, covering both the basics and more advanced concepts.
- Data Science in the World: This course may discuss applications of data science, pitfalls that threaten the field, and the ethics involved in data use and interpretation.
- Data Security: One of your classes may address methods for keeping data secure and responding to threats.
- Introduction to Data Science: Early in your major studies, you’ll take a foundational course that includes overviews of computer science and statistics.
- Machine Learning: As you learn about methods in modern machine learning, you may study regression, clustering, optimization, and algorithms.
- Mathematics and Algorithms: This course will build on your previous math studies by providing you with mathematical techniques that are specifically needed for data analysis and programming.
- Modeling for Mathematics: You’ll learn to use computer software—such as spreadsheet programs—to produce tables, solutions, or other methods of representing mathematical problems.
- Programming Languages: In one class or several, you can become proficient in programming languages like Python or SQL.
- Visualization: You can learn how to create images, such as charts or graphs, that communicate the information contained in data sets.
Typically, earning an online data science degree requires completing around 120 credit hours.
Data Science Major Admissions Requirements
Once you decide to earn a data science bachelor degree online, the next step is to apply to schools. Depending on the school’s admissions process, your application packet might include:
- Application form and fee
- SAT or ACT test scores — not required by all colleges
- Transcripts from high school and from any colleges you’ve attended
- Personal essay or statement
After looking over the materials, some schools may conduct interviews with applicants or ask to speak with references.
Online Data Science Programs Accreditation
Data science is a highly valued degree—but only if you’ve done your studies through a respected institution. To determine whether a school has what it takes, you can look into its accreditation status. More specifically, you can check whether a prospective college or university holds regional accreditation. This distinction is given to schools that meet high standards.
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When you choose a regionally accredited university, you can trust that you’ll receive a solid education. Other accredited schools will put their trust in your education too, so your credits might transfer elsewhere. An accredited degree can also help you qualify for graduate programs. Employers also tend to have more confidence in candidates who’ve received their education from an accredited institution.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you qualify, financial aid could make all the difference in your ability to afford college classes. As you’re preparing for school, you may want to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The most common form of federal assistance is low-interest loans. Some students qualify for grants too. In addition to federal funding, you might also be eligible for financial aid through your state. Scholarships can be a valuable addition to your federal aid package.
Some students receive scholarship money directly from their colleges. Other scholarships are available through independent organizations, such as industry associations, clubs, community programs, and employers.
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Data Scientist?
Often, a bachelors degree is the first step toward a job as a data scientist. Majoring in data science is a top choice for this career path, of course. Other technical degree programs could be good alternatives, though. Examples include statistics, computer programming, or computer science.
A bachelors degree is often enough for securing an entry-level role that can help you work your way up the ladder. Even so, a graduate degree may be a strategic move. To advance your qualifications, you could get a masters degree or a doctoral degree in data science or a related field.
What Is a Data Science Degree?
A data science degree is a college bachelor’s program that focuses on dealing with data sets. Data science professionals often work with complex, unstructured collections of data. They use algorithms, computer programming, and other tools to come up with solutions for managing data and producing actionable insights.
In a data science program, you can learn the technical skills needed for those tasks. Your coursework might also teach you communication methods to use when sharing your work. Class topics may include programming foundations, data science ethics, mathematical modeling, and data visualization.
What Can You Do with a Data Science Degree?
After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Data Science, you may have a variety of career options available to you. Some graduates become analysts, often as financial analysts, management analysts, or operations research analysts.
Others choose to become certified as actuaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, actuaries often work for insurance companies. Working as an information research scientist could be another opportunity. With experience, data science professionals may pursue leadership roles, such as information systems manager.
Is Data Science Hard?
Whether or not data science seems hard will likely depend on your interests and proficiencies. For starters, data science depends heavily on mathematics. You’ll take advanced math courses, such as calculus, as a foundation. As you advance through your program, you may have additional classes in algorithms or mathematical modeling.
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Computer science is also an important emphasis of this program. Not only will you learn computer programming fundamentals, but you’ll work toward becoming fluent in a few different computer languages. SQL and Python are common options for data scientists. Most programs require you to either complete an internship or a capstone project before graduation.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Science Online Degree?
For full-time studies, it generally takes 4 years to complete a bachelor’s degree in data science. That’s the common timeframe for on-campus programs, in particular.
Online students sometimes have the advantage of speedier studies. Many online colleges structure their programs with short-term classes and year-round calendars. By completing one course after another, you may reach graduation in 3.5 years or less.
Some online programs grant credit for prior knowledge or past college courses. Either option could shave significant time off your program.
What’s the Difference Between an Online Bachelor’s in Data Science vs. Data Analytics?
Data science and data analytics are both hot fields right now, and they have a lot in common. Here are some differences between the two degree paths.
| Data Analytics | Data Science |
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In a bachelors degree program, you may cover both analytics and data science topics. In fact, data analytics is sometimes considered a branch of data science.
What’s the Difference Between an Online Bachelors in Data Science vs. Computer Science?
Both data scientists and computer scientists work with computers and coding. If you enjoy computer programming, you might be wondering which degree to pursue.
| Computer Science | Data Science |
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There’s a decent amount of job overlap between these two fields, and either degree could eventually lead to a job as a computer or information systems manager.
Is a Data Science Degree Worth It?
Yes, a data science degree is worth it for many students. Jobs in data science are growing at an incredible rate. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information research scientists are expected to see 22% job growth over the next decade.
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The predicted growth rate for actuaries is 24%, and operations research analysts are expected to see 25% job growth. Plus, data science studies could allow you to be at the cutting edge of research in a variety of fields. Whether you’re interested in robotics, linguistics, ecology, or healthcare, you could make an impact through your data work.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Data Science Degree Program
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.
American Public University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Data Science. Courses start every month and are 8 or 16 weeks long. Students can choose a concentration in Business Intelligence or Deep Learning or the Flex track, which provides a broad curriculum.
APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Arizona State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science. The program’s online classes are 7.5 weeks long. There are five tracks to choose from: Behavioral Science, Bioscience, Business Analytics, Social Science, and Spatial Science. The program is designed to enhance students’ computing and statistics skills and teach how to use data ethically.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
City University of Seattle offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science that can be earned online, in person, or in a mixed format. The program requires the completion of 180 credits. The curriculum includes courses such as Human Computer Interaction, Web Design, Cybersecurity, Data Structures and Algorithms in Computing, and more.
CityU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Data Science. This online program is 183 credits and provides flexible scheduling options. Courses include Problem Solving in Computer Science, Fundamentals of Computer Organization and Architecture, Streaming Data Analytics, Data Mining, and more.
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Indiana University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science. The program is available 100% online, but courses are also available at multiple campus locations. The curriculum includes courses such as Applied Cloud Computing for Data Intensive Sciences, Computation for Scientific Applications, Fundamentals of Data Management, and more.
Indiana University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Maryville University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science that can be earned 100% online. The curriculum emphasizes practical projects and real-world applications. The program can be customized through elective choices or by choosing an optional concentration in Actuarial Science. Accepted students can start in the fall, spring, or summer terms.
Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Norwich University offers a BS in Data Analytics. There are six start dates every year, and courses are 100% online. The program includes courses such as Introduction to Data and Business Analytics, Advanced Statistical Methods, Introduction to Network Science, Data Visualization, and more. It culminates with a capstone course.
Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Ohio Christian University offers a BS in Data Analytics. The program is available both fully online and fully on-campus. Online classes are 5 weeks long and feature discussion forums and weekly assignments. Coursework includes Security Fundamentals, Business Information Systems, Information Technology Project Management, and more.
Ohio Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Purdue University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Analytics. Courses are 10 weeks long and require a time commitment of about 15 to 18 hours each week. Multiple start dates are available each year. Students in the program can choose a concentration in Supply Chain Management and Logistics or Game Development.
Purdue University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Salem University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Data Science. The curriculum covers topics such as data structures, data visualization, data security, and project management strategies. It culminates with a senior capstone project. Classes start monthly and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Salem University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Southern New Hampshire University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. The program focuses on real-world problem-solving and using data to inform decisions. Online students have access to tutoring and other support services. Students in this program can choose to pursue an optional concentration in Project Management for STEM.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Strayer University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Data Analytics. The program consists of forty 11 week courses. The curriculum includes Introduction to Management Information Systems, Decision Support and Business Intelligence, Data Warehouse Planning, and more.
Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Thomas Edison State University offers a BS in Data Science and Analytics. The degree can be completed entirely online. The curriculum includes courses such as Forecasting Analytics, Interactive Data Visualization, Introduction to Network Analysis, and more. TESU designs its programs with the needs of working adults in mind.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Maine—Augusta offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science. Students in the program can choose a concentration in Social Science or Business Analytics. The program includes internship opportunities to help students get real-world experience. Coursework includes Database Management, Algorithms and Data Structures, Data Mining, and more.
The University of Maine at Augusta is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The Bachelor of Science in Data Science from the University of Maryland Global Campus can be earned entirely online. Select courses are also available in a hybrid format. Coursework includes Cybersecurity for Leaders and Managers, Business Intelligence and Data Analytics, Foundations of Machine Learning, and more. The program culminates with a capstone course.
The University of Maryland Global Campus is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Massachusetts offers a BS in Information Technology with an emphasis in Data Science that can be earned through an online, self-paced format. The curriculum covers how to organize data for a business and use data to inform decisions. Accepted students can start at any time.
The University of Massachusetts is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of North Dakota offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Science that can be earned online or on campus. Applicants can apply to start in the fall, spring, or summer. The program is committed to providing the same curriculum and instructional quality regardless of the delivery format. Online students are given opportunities to interact with instructors and classmates.
UND is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Phoenix offers an online program for a BS in Data Science. The curriculum was designed in consultation with labor market researchers. It covers statistical analysis, programming languages, data mining, and related topics. Each course is 5 weeks long, and most students take just one course at a time.
The University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Washington State University’s BS in Data Analytics can be earned 100% online. The program’s interdisciplinary curriculum blends computer science, statistics, business strategies, and communication. Graduates of the program pursue careers in a multitude of industries. Courses emphasize problem solving and hands-on projects. Accepted students can start in the fall, spring, or summer.
WSU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Western Governors University offers a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics and Data Management. The program is fully online and designed to allow students to continue working while earning their degrees. Classes start monthly and include Data Systems Administration, Data Visualization, Machine Learning, Web Development Foundations, and more.
Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Getting Your Bachelor of Data Science Degree Online
Data science professionals are in high demand. To help fill the need, you can study data science in college. You’ll typically take classes in machine learning, data mining, statistics, and programming.
By the time you reach graduation, you could be ready to partner with organizations to help with their data and analytics needs. Through online study, you can work your way through data science classes on a schedule that suits your life.
To learn more about the difference that a data science degree could make, you can explore online programs from accredited schools.
