Getting an online data analytics master’s degree is an excellent way to land a job in the big data and data science industry, especially as careers in the field are available across all major sectors. Elevate your educational standing and enhance your data analytics skills, by checking out our list of the best online data analytics master’s degrees.
This guide to the 10 best online data analytics master’s degree programs will share the top schools that offer them, what’s required to apply, and how to ace the admissions process. You’ll also learn about the best data analytics master’s degree jobs that await you to start or advance your career in business intelligence, cloud computing, statistical computing, or analytics management.
Where Can I Get a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Online?
You can get a data analytics master’s degree online at Arizona State University, Drexel University, Syracuse University, or the University of Maryland Global. There are tons of university data science programs that offer a multidisciplinary curriculum specializing in data analytics. Below are the best online data analytics master’s degrees you can choose from.
What Schools Offer the Best Data Analytics Master’s Degrees?
- Drexel University
- Arizona State University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Regent University
- Oregon State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online data analytics master’s degree are an undergraduate degree, 3.0 cumulative GPA, letters of recommendation, a resume, and official transcripts. Depending on the university, you might need to submit your official GRE or GMAT scores.
Some universities also require you to take elective credits in statistical computing or statistical models in your bachelor’s degrees. Online master’s degrees also require you to complete an online application and often pay an application fee that can cost up to $75.
Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- 3.0 cumulative GPA
- Undergraduate degree
- Letters of recommendation
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Resume
How to Get a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Online
You can get a data analytics master’s degree online by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Your online classes will cover a wide variety of general and core courses. Depending on your choice of online program you will be required to complete courses in statistical analysis, predictive models, logistic regression, and computational methods.
You will also need to complete a capstone project or submit a thesis covering the data analytics field. Overall, you can complete your master’s degree by completing the credit hours and meeting the required cumulative GPA.
Data Analytics Degree Requirements
- 30 to 45 credit hours
- Required courses in applied data science, data analytics, and artificial intelligence fields
- 3.0 cumulative GPA
- Prerequisite courses from your undergraduate program showcasing your knowledge of statistics and the data science field
- Capstone project or thesis covering advanced data analytics.
Best Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in Program Evaluation and Data Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Oregon State University | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) |
| PennState World Campus | Master of Professional Studies in Data Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Master of Science in Data Analytics | New England Commision of Higher Education |
| Syracuse University | Master of Science in Applied Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Master of Science in Data Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Missouri | Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Western Governors University | Master of Science in Data Analytics | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) |
Best Schools for Data Analytics: Top Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
Below are the top 10 best online data analytics master’s degrees. Our list includes a summary of the online program, online courses, and program information. Choose a degree that matches your curriculum expectations, career goals, tuition rates, and required core credits.
What Is an Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
An online data analytics master’s degree is an advanced degree that helps you attain a strong background in data science, data mining, data analytics, and statistical analytics. The curriculum will vary depending on your choice of online degree program. Data analytics online students can specialize in data science, business analytics, deep learning, or linear models.
An online master’s degree will typically require you to complete around 30 to 45 credit hours and can take around two to three years to complete. An online degree is ideal for prospective students who are looking to fulfill their career goals in the data analytics field using a flexible, remote, and affordable option.
Online vs In-Person Data Analytics Degrees
The benefits of online vs in-person data analytics degrees depend on your career goals, program curriculum, and tuition rate preferences. The degree requirement for students will vary in their foundation courses, core credits, and elective credits. Below are the top five benefits of online vs in-person degrees.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Data Analytics
- More affordable. The overall costs of your online Master’s Degree in Data Analytics will be less than an in-person degree. You won’t need to cover on-campus housing, on-campus health insurance, and other in-person fees.
- Flexible. Online data analytics master’s programs offer a flexible education option. You can set your schedule to meet your online education needs. This is a great option for part-time students looking to complete the required courses at a flexible pace.
- Ideal for busy individuals. The flexible and convenient nature of an online data science degree is ideal for busy individuals. You can get your master’s degree while working your full-time job and without hindering any other duties.
- Convenient. For those of you who prefer learning from home, online data science programs are for you. It allows you to take your courses from the comfort of your home or from your preferred location.
- Safe distance education. Online education is increasing in popularity as it offers safe distance education when circumstances require people not to attend on-campus programs.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Data Analytics
- Easy access to career centers and career fairs. In-person degrees provide easy access to the university’s career center. The school’s career services team can help you achieve your career goals by offering interview prep and resume critique.
- Ample socialization opportunities. An in-person master’s degree offers socialized education. If you prefer group work and networking, then an in-person data analytics program is for you.
- Traditional degree learning method. An in-person degree is a traditional degree that is widely recognized and accepted. If you want to meet the traditional industry standards, then consider an in-person degree.
- Research opportunities. In-person degrees provide easier access to research and teaching assistantship opportunities compared to online programs. Relevant work experience and research skills will help you land a data analytics position with a high annual salary.
- Easier access to professor office hours. Getting your degree on-campus provides you with easier access to your professors and school faculty. You can visit their office during office hours for one-on-one support.
What Types of Online Master’s Degree Can You Get in Data Analytics?
You can get a Master of Science in Data Science, Master of Business Administration, or Master of Applied Science in Data Science. The different types of online Master’s Degrees in Data Analytics cover applied data science and business analytics topics.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Business Administration in Data Analytics?
A Master of Science is better for those wanting to specialize in data science, statistics, or information analytics. Some of the required courses will include data wrangling, statistical reasoning, big data, or software engineering projects.
A Master of Business Administration helps you prepare for the business data career field. You can specialize in business analytics, accounting analytics, or business intelligence management. The prerequisite coursework and technical skills requirements will vary depending on your choice of degree.
However, whether it is better to get a Master of Science or a Master of Business Administration in Data Analytics is dependent on your career advancement goals and program preference.
How Much Does a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Cost?
The average cost of a master’s degree is $19,314, according to the most recent statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics. Your tuition rates will vary depending on your transfer credits, school rankings, and any other financial requirements for students.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Online?
It takes two years to get a data analytics master’s degree online. Universities typically require you to complete around 30 to 45 credit hours for this master’s degree which can also take up to three years to complete depending on how many credits you take per semester. You can take around 15 credit hours per year to complete a 30 credits degree in two years’ time.
Are Online Data Analytics Degrees Respected?
Yes, online data analytics degrees are respected. An online Master of Science in Data Analytics carries the same level of credibility as an in-person degree. If you enroll in an accredited university with a reputable data science program, your chances of landing data analytics jobs will be high. You should enroll in data science programs that offer core and elective courses to help you enter the field.
Is Data Analytics Hard to Learn Online?
No, data analytics is not hard to learn online. Succeeding in this online program requires time, dedication, and effort. It is easier than ever to learn data analytics online via online videos and courses. Master the bridge courses like math, statistics, and data science for a seamless educational experience.
Data Analytics Bootcamp vs Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
Data analytics bootcamps are better for students wanting a short-term, immersive program that provides job-ready skills to start a career in data analytics as soon as possible. However, a master’s degree has its own set of advantages.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree
- Increased job opportunities. With a master’s degree, you have access to a wider range of job opportunities, as you are no longer limited to entry-level or mid-level jobs.
- Advanced skills. You gain advanced technical skills that will increase your efficiency and give you a competitive advantage in the job market.
- Expert instruction. The faculty in charge of master’s degrees are usually highly-experienced professionals in the field.
- Increased employability. With a master’s degree, your chances of securing the jobs you apply for are much greater.
- Impressive salary. A data analytics master’s degree will give you access to jobs that pay very well. Most people that earn a master’s degree see their earning potential grow.
Top 5 Benefits of a Data Analytics Bootcamp
- In-demand skills. Coding bootcamps focus on equipping their students with the skills that employers in the industry are looking for.
- Hands-on training. Bootcamps teach their students using a hands-on approach to give them real-life experience and make them more hireable.
- Low-cost. Bootcamps are very affordable. Some come at no cost or offer a deferred payment plan.
- Flexible. A data analytics bootcamp will have a more flexible curriculum and learning format to make it accessible to mid-level workers and professionals.
- Career services. The best data analytics bootcamps offer extensive career support in the form of interview prep, resume reviews, or events to connect students to potential employers.
Why You Should Get a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Online
You should get a data analytics master’s degree online if you are in search of an advanced education that is affordable, flexible, and helps you land senior data roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected job outlook for operations research analysts is 25 percent between 2020 to 2030. BLS categorizes data analytics occupations under operations research analysts. Your online master’s degree will help you secure a fruitful job in this growing field and help you earn a lucrative compensation package.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Data Analytics?
The common courses you take in an online master’s degree program in data analytics cover statistical reasoning, data mining, data science, and mathematics fields. If you opt for a business analytics degree the curriculum will include courses in business intelligence and business administration. Below are the top five common courses you will take during your data analytics master’s program.
Data Science
Data science coursework is a common requirement for students and it covers machine learning, deep learning, Python, R, big data, and data modeling. You will solve real-world problems using sample data repositories.
Mathematics
Mathematics is an integral component in the data and statistical analytics field. Your math classes will include calculus, probability calculus, variance, correlation, differential equations, and covariance topics. Some math courses will also be a part of your degree’s core credits.
Statistical Computing and Analytics
Statistical computing courses cover data programming, research, and input methods. You will acquire both basic knowledge and advanced skills in statistics and learn data forecasting, risk assessment, predictive analytics, and data visualization.
Database Management
A database management and administration course is another typical course requirement for a data analytics program. You will learn SQL, database design, and database maintenance to manage datasets.
Python and R
You will learn to use Python and R for data analytics and other applied data science tasks. You will gain skills in statistics, hands-on programming, and solving business problems with these languages. The courses also help you master other applied data analytics topics and tools.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
The continuing education paths for online data analytics master’s degree graduates include a PhD program or certification exams. You can also further your career by completing the IBM Data Science Professional Certification, CCA Data Analyst Certification, or Amazon Web Services Certified Big Data exam.
Related Online Data Analytics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best data analytics master’s degree programs are the application process, prerequisite courses, program curriculum, and tuition rates. You should choose the degree that best suits your educational and financial preferences. Below are the top five factors to consider while choosing your data analytics master’s program.
Tuition Costs
A major factor to consider when choosing your master’s degree program is tuition that matches your financing preferences. Get in touch with the school’s admissions team to find out about any scholarships, payment plans, or financial aid programs.
Program Requirements
The prerequisite coursework for data analytics or science programs varies from school to school. Look up the required coursework and be sure to meet it during your bachelor’s degree program to avoid any issues when applying for your master’s.
Program Curriculum
A Master’s in Data Analytics is offered in conjunction with data science or business fields. Choose a program that offers a curriculum that matches your career goals and educational preference. You should choose a degree in business analytics if a career in the business sector is your goal, and choose an applied data analytics degree if you want an IT career.
School Ranking and Reputation
Choosing an accredited university with a high ranking and reputation will help enhance your professional portfolio and land lucrative data jobs. The data analytics world is a competitive one, making creating an impressive portfolio a necessity.
Career Services and Graduation Rate
You should also consider the school’s graduation rate and career services to secure your upcoming career placement. Choose schools with a high graduation rate and an extensive career services program.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
The most affordable online data analytics master’s degree is offered by the University of Missouri at $14,096 for the program. The data analytics program requires you to complete 34 credit hours at a cost of $414.4 per credit hour.
Can I Get a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a data analytics master’s degree online for free. A master’s degree is an advanced degree that requires extensive time and financial commitment. However, you can learn data analytics online for free using online videos or free Udemy or Coursera courses.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
Your relevant work experience paired with your online Master’s Degree in Data Analytics can help you get sought-after jobs in the data field. Below are the best data analytics master’s degree jobs you can get post-graduation.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with a data analytics master’s degree. Your degree provides you with advanced data training and real-world experience in applied data analytics for your future career success. Universities also offer resume critique, interview prep, networking opportunities, and other career services to help you land your dream job after graduation.
What’s the Average Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for an online data analytics master’s degree holder is $80,000 according to PayScale. Your annual salary will vary depending on your job designation, place of employment, and relevant work experience.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online data analytics master’s degree are data scientist, data analyst, business intelligence analyst, or logistician. You can also become a statistician or a database architect. Your career path is determined on the basis of your data analytics specialization and technical skillset.
Data Analytics Degree Jobs
- Big Data Architect
- Computer and Information Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Management Analyst
Potential Careers With an Online Data Analytics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
You can make between $66,000 to $144,400 with an online data analytics master’s degree. Your overall salary varies depending on your choice of concentration, job designation, and company. You can also earn data analytics industry certifications to increase your chances of landing a high-paying job.
Highest-Paying Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Data Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Big Data Architect | $144,315 |
| Computer and Information Scientist | $109,345 |
| Data Scientist | $97,294 |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $71,104 |
| Data Management Analyst | $66,195 |
Best Jobs for Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Grads
Below are the highest paying jobs for online data analytics master’s degree grads. Landing these jobs requires you to excel in your program, acquire valuable data skills, and ace your job application process.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online data analytics master’s degree worth it if you want to land lucrative jobs in the data science, business intelligence, or information technology fields. An online degree provides you with an affordable education that is perfect for busy individuals looking to further their education. It will help you land senior-level, high-paying data analytics jobs and secure your career in a growing field.
Additional Reading About Data Analytics
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Online Data Analytics Master’s Degree FAQ
You learn data analytics, data science, data visualization, statistical analytics, linear modeling, and machine learning in an online data analytics master’s degree.
You can get jobs such as business intelligence analyst, data scientist, or computer and information scientist with an online data analytics master’s degree.
A business analytics master’s degree covers topics such as business intelligence, statistical computing, data analytics, data science, accounting analytics, and finance analytics.
Arizona State University, Southern New Hampshire University, and Drexel University offer the best data analytics master’s degrees.
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