Business analytics associate degree students learn statistics, data modeling, and other data-driven approaches to develop business insights. If you’re interested in earning an Associate Degree in Business Analytics, your chosen program will teach you to analyze data from a business’s past performance and use it to improve its future performance.
In this article, we discuss the best Associate Degrees in Business Analytics that will lead to a lucrative career in the business industry. As well, we explore the types of jobs you can get after attending one of the best business analytics associate degree programs and what you can expect your annual salary to look like after graduation.
What Is Business Analytics?
Business analytics is the use of quantitative methods to extract meaning from data and make better business decisions. The three main methods of business analytics are predictive, descriptive, and prescriptive.
Predictive analysis uses statistics to predict outcomes in the future. Descriptive analysis involves the identification of patterns and trends in historical data. Lastly, prescriptive analysis requires running tests to determine desirable outcomes for specific business scenarios.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Business Analytics?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Business Analytics are accredited schools with accreditation from organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). If you’re wondering where to get an Associate Degree in Business Analytics, below are five of the best schools.
What Schools Offer the Best Business Analytics Associate Degrees?
- Broward College
- Community College of Allegheny County
- Fox Valley Technical College
- Mid-State Technical College
- North Central State College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Business Analytics?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Business Analytics are a high school diploma or GED accompanied by your transcripts, with some colleges requiring a minimum grade point average (GPA). Depending on the school you choose, there may be additional requirements like a placement test or proficiency in programming languages like R and Python.
If you’re looking to pursue business analytics, it’s important to be aware of the business analytics associate degree requirements. Do your own research into each school’s requirements to ensure you are qualified for enrollment.
Business Analytics Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED with transcripts
- Minimum GPA as stated by the school
- Some programming knowledge
- Placement test
- Application fee
How to Get an Associate Degree in Business Analytics
You can get a business analytics associate degree by taking prerequisite high school courses and brushing up on topic-specific facets of what your chosen degree program entails. The type of knowledge required for a business analytics associate degree includes proficiency in mathematics, statistics, spreadsheets, and databases, as well as excellent documentation and research capabilities.
The best way to get a business analytics associate degree is by attending an accredited postsecondary institution with a reputable business program. Review the college website to see what courses they offer for business analytics and choose electives that fit your interest. Before you start your business analytics associate degree program, be aware that it will take lots of effort to be successful.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Business Analytics?
You need approximately 60 credits for an Associate in Business Analytics program. Typically a 60-credit business analytics program takes two years to complete, but some colleges have a quicker turnaround time due to differences in curricula. These quicker programs can be completed in around 18 months.
Business Analytics Degree Requirements
- 40 technical studies credits, including electives
- 20 general studies credits
- A business analyst capstone course
- Demonstrated proficiency in programming
Best Business Analytics Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
School | Program | Accreditation |
---|---|---|
Broward College | Associate of Science in Business Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Cape Fear Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Business Analytics |
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Community College of Allegheny | Associate of Science in Data Analytics Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Fox Valley Technical College | Associate in Applied Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Great Bay Community College | Associate in Science in Analytics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Hocking College | Associate of Science in Data Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Mid-State Technical College | Associate in Applied Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
North Central State College | Associate of Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
St. Petersburg College | Associate of Science in Data Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Wilmington University | Associate of Science in Data Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Business Analytics: Top Business Analytics Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for a business analytics associate degree are an excellent way to secure a high-paying job in business analytics. Some of the best schools for business analytics associate programs teach business analytics through other disciplines like data science or data analytics.
If you want to know more about the best schools for business analytics associate degree programs, the section below covers what these schools are, their tuition costs and graduation rates, as well as what each program entails and how to apply.
Best Online Business Analytics Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
School | Program | Accreditation |
---|---|---|
Miami Dade College | Associate in Science in Business Intelligence | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Moraine Park Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Northcentral Technical College | Associate of Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | Associate of Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Oakland Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Business Systems Analysis Specialization | Higher Learning Commission |
Southern New Hampshire University | Associate of Science in Data Analytics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Data Analytics Specialization | Higher Learning Commission |
St. Petersburg College | Associate of Arts in Business Analytics and Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Wake Technical Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Business Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Western Technical College | Associate of Applied Science: Business Analyst | Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges |
Best Colleges for Business Analytics: Top Online Business Analytics Associate Degree Programs
If you want a more flexible program, you can consider some of these online business analytics associate degrees. Some offer accelerated learning while others allow you to study at your own pace, offering you the chance to learn regardless of what your schedule looks like.
What Is a Business Analytics Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Business Analytics teaches students the skills they need to enter the business industry. This form of postsecondary education often takes place at a community college, but some universities offer it as well.
An Associate Degree in Business Analytics takes two years to complete and usually includes general education courses, around 60 credits of coursework, and occasionally a capstone project that prepares you for the field.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Business Analytics?
It is very important to have an Associate Degree in Business Analytics because it will help you break into the tech or business industry and prepare you for real-world scenarios. This degree program also teaches students to work as liaisons and support business initiatives by collecting and analyzing data for companies, using modern tools for business analysis.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Business Analytics?
The business analytics associate degree types you can get include an Associate of Arts in Business Analytics and an Associate of Science in Business Analytics.
The type of Associate Degree in Business Analytics you should pursue depends on if you want a broader approach to business analytics or a more hands-on, applicable approach. If you want a career in tech, you should get an Associate of Science.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science in Business Analytics?
It is better to get an Associate of Science in Business Analytics because its math and science approach will drive your career in tech and business forward. An Associate of Arts in Business Analytics can help you get a job in numerous fields but has less emphasis on math and science.
However, an Associate of Arts is better than having no degree. Both an Associate of Arts and an Associate of Science in Business Analytics will get you a job as a business analyst.
What Is the Difference Between a Business Analytics Associate Degree and a Business Analytics Certificate?
The main difference between a business analytics associate degree and a certificate in business analytics is that an associate degree is the first degree you can get after high school. It offers job-ready knowledge and skills while increasing your employability.
If you’re eager to start working sooner, you can get a certificate in business analytics instead. A certificate is a career-focused technical program that can be finished in less time than a degree. When paired with a degree, though, a certificate enhances your resume.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Business Analytics?
Business analytics associate degrees cost between $15,000 to $40,000, but the average tuition cost for two-year degrees is between $3,812 to $18,631, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
An Associate Degree in Business Analytics is more affordable than an advanced degree. However, the cost may depend on other factors, such as whether the school is public or private, or whether it is for-profit or non-profit.
Business Analytics Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Business Analytics Degree
Payment options for a business analytics associate degree include private loans and scholarships. Other than financial aid for Associate Degrees in Business Analytics in the form of federal student loans and grants, students may work a few hours per week to pay off part of their tuition. If you’re wondering how to pay for Associate Degrees in Business Analytics or what the full financial aid for an Associate in Business Analytics is, then contact admissions.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Analytics Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Business Analytics. To break down the typical timeframe for this degree, students will complete 60 credits over four semesters at their chosen school. The Associate Degree in Business Analytics length may vary depending on the school, with some schools recommending five semesters instead of four.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Business Analytics?
An Associate Degree in Business Analytics can be hard to get if you struggle with mathematics and programming languages. If getting a business analytics associate degree is hard for you, contact academic advising to find solutions to help you succeed in the program.
A business analytics associate degree is hard because it requires students to be familiar with data collection, processing, and analyzing, as well as compiling the data and organizing it. The organization process is often done through programming languages like R and Python.
Why Should You Get a Business Analytics Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Business Analytics are being able to pursue a career in tech and business, being prepared for real-world scenarios, and having a degree on your resume to get a higher salary. The benefits of an Associate Degree in Business Analytics outweigh the cons since you’ll be prepared for the job market in only two years.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Business Analytics?
Associate Degree in Business Analytics courses helps students learn the fundamental skills required for business analyst jobs. The Associate in Business Analytics course list typically includes quantitative methods of data collection, how to apply these methods efficiently, and how to utilize programming languages for productivity.
Business Analyst Essentials
In this basics course, typically taught in the first semester of study, students learn what business analytics is, how to do the job effectively, and the ethical standards of the profession. Students also gain a solid understanding of business analytics best practices.
Computer Programming
The computer programming course teaches students how to use programming languages like Python and R to solve business-related data issues. You’ll also learn how to manipulate programming language files, scripts, and interactions.
Project Management
As a business analyst, it is imperative to know how to create functional business projects. In a project management course, you’ll learn the project creation process, from planning and creating the project to working with a group to using analytics technology.
Analytical Methods
This is a highly math-related course where you’ll learn algebra with business applications, linear and non-linear algebra functions, probability, and finance applications. This is an essential course since business analytics revolves around mathematic functions.
Business Strategy
As part of the business strategy course, you can expect to learn business structures and how to curate your business strategies to fit the specific company you work for. As well, you’ll find out how to make informed decisions based on the data you’ve collected.
Continuing Education Paths for Business Analytics Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a business analytics associate degree is to apply for entry-level business analytics jobs. The path after an Associate Degree in Business Analytics leads to systems analyst, operations research, and chartered accountant roles, all of which are vital in the business analyst field.
However, the best path to take with a business analytics associate degree depends on your interests, so it is best to do as much research as possible. If you feel as though you need further education, then seek out a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Analytics.
Related Business Analytics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Business Analytics Associate Degree Programs
The best business analytics associate degree programs are accredited and have curricular content tailored to prepare you for the life of a business analyst. You can expect to learn programming languages, the fundamentals of analytics, and the best path to career success. Below is what you should look for in an Associate Degree in Business Analytics program.
Cost
Consider the cost of the program overall and any other fees that will be incurred. Other fees and costs may include out-of-state tuition, room and board, books and supplies, and transportation. Depending on your current financial situation, you should choose a school and program that fits well with you and pursue financial aid if needed.
Accreditation
Accreditation is extremely important when considering a school. Accreditation means that your degree is recognized by other institutions and employers. If you attend a non-accredited school, you won’t be able to pursue further education from accredited institutions.
Employment Outcomes
Find out what the schools’ employment outcomes are. If the school has low employment outcomes for graduates, then it is likely going to be difficult to get a job after receiving your degree. Select a school with a high job placement rate.
Barriers to Admission
Barriers to admission include minimum education requirements, standardized tests, transcripts, grade point average, and financial aid. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, are unable to provide appropriate documentation, or do not receive financial aid, it may be difficult for you to get into an Associate Degree in Business Analytics program.
Curricular Content
Look into the courses provided by the school. Each course will have a course description detailing what you’ll learn during the program. Every program should include programming courses, business analytics fundamentals, and project management. Read student reviews online to find out what alumni are saying.
What Is the Most Affordable Business Analytics Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degree in Business Analytics can be acquired at North Central State College for $15,293 per year, Cape Fear Community College for $18,006 per year, and Mid-State Technical College for $18,047 per year.
If you’re looking for affordable business analytics associate programs online, you can attend Northcentral Technical College for $15,863 per year, Oakland Community College for $17,550 per year, or Southwest Wisconsin Technical College for $18,115 per year.
Salary and Job Outlook for Business Analytics Associate Degree Graduates
Business analytics associate degree jobs are excellent career paths for those interested in using quantitative methods to make sense of data and help companies make business decisions. Find out what the Associate in Business Analytics salary is and what the best Associate Degree in Business Analytics jobs are.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Business Analytics Associate Degree?
It can be difficult to get a job with a business analytics associate degree. Many of the top companies in both tech and business prefer business analysts with a bachelor’s degree over those with an associate degree.
However, how hard it is to get a job with an associate in business analytics is determined by how proficient you are in business analytics best practices, software tools, programming languages, and quantitative methods.
To reduce how hard it is to get a job after getting an Associate Degree in Business Analytics, ensure you excel in the following essential business analytics technical skills:
- SQL, R, and Python
- Predictive, descriptive, and prescriptive quantitative methods
- Spreadsheet and presentation creation
What’s the Average Business Analytics Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for a business analytics associate is about $57,192 per year. This career path has significant room for advancement, though, with the overall average salary for a business analyst being about $70,661 per year.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Business Analytics Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a business analytics associate degree are accounting and operations analytics jobs. The highest-paying business analytics jobs for associate degree holders are great for paving your way to a career in business and tech.
Business Analytics Degree Jobs
- Systems analyst
- Operations research analyst
- Business analyst
- Supply chain manager
- Chartered accountant
Potential Careers With a Business Analytics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Business Analytics?
You can make between $41,000 to $70,687 with an Associate Degree in Business aAalytics. How much money you can make with an Associate Degree in Business Analytics depends on if you go on to pursue a bachelor’s degree or other opportunities in higher education.
As well, the average money that business analytics majors make out of college depends on the company they work for. Each company pays its business analysts a different wage, so it is best to know going into your interview how much business analysts at the company earn.
Highest-Paying Business Analytics Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
Business Analytics Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
---|---|
Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
Management Analyst | $93,000 |
Operations Research Analyst | $82,360 |
Chartered Accountant | $77,250 |
Supply Chain Manager | $77,030 |
Best Jobs for Business Analytics Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for business analytics associate degree grads are high-paying analytics jobs with positive job outlooks. If you want to know what the best paying business analytics associate jobs are, this section outlines five jobs you should consider.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Business Analytics Bootcamp vs Business Analytics Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An associate degree program is not the only starting point for a business analytics career. You can also become one after attending one of the best data analytics bootcamps. Below are some advantages of each option.
Benefits of a Business Analytics Associate Degree
- Affordability. Associate degree programs make it possible to earn a degree without being weighed down by student debt. The program is more affordable than most and it is easier to clear debts from such programs.
- Career openness. This degree can offer you an opportunity to explore careers without having an advanced degree. It’s less risky than jumping into a bachelor’s degree program immediately after high school.
- Flexibility. A business analytics associate degree can give you the chance to work and earn a living while attending school. This reduces your long-term debt profile.
- Speed. Another main benefit is that an associate degree does not require a long time to complete. Some schools allow you to finish in 16 months.
- Higher earnings. You can earn more with a degree than with a high school diploma. Even though most associate degree jobs are entry-level positions, they have a higher-than-average salary.
Benefits of a Business Analytics Bootcamp
- Brevity. Bootcamps are short and intensive programs that give you the background you need to take up entry-level roles. Within a few weeks, you can get a job and start a new career.
- Support. Students also get support from career coaches to help them land a job within a few weeks of completing their program.
- Affordability. Bootcamps are considerably cheaper than most training programs. They also offer payment programs to encourage more people to transition to a career in tech.
- Flexibility. Students in bootcamps can choose between attending on campus or learning from home.
- Curricular intensity. Bootcamps offer an accelerated and focused curriculum. This means that you can learn what you need without having to enroll in general ed courses.
Is an Associate Degree in Business Analytics Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Business Analytics is worth it if you want to prepare for a successful career in business, tech, or many other lucrative industries. An Associate in Business Analytics program is short and convenient. Some colleges offer shorter programs that are more flexible so you can attend from the comfort of your home.
If you want to enroll in a program that gives you valuable skills that you can use in several other career paths, then an Associate Degree in Business Analytics is definitely worth it. Also, an associate degree will give you an opportunity to earn more and apply for jobs in an in-demand industry, which is another thing that makes a business analytics associate degree worth it.
Additional Reading About Business Analytics
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Business Analytics Associate Degree FAQ
With a business analytics degree, you can get jobs in several industries, including healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Some job titles you can get with this degree are operations research analyst, business analyst, supply chain manager, and project manager.
A business analytics degree is worth it because the job growth and employment statistics in this field are impressive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for management analyst jobs is predicted to increase by 14 percent over the next decade, which is far higher than the average rate of job growth across all occupations.
You can earn less with an Associate Degree in Business Analytics than with other types of degrees. This field offers as much as six figures for more experienced professionals, most of whom have bachelor’s or master’s degrees. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for a business analyst is $70,661.
Requirements for a business analytics associate degree vary depending on the school. You may be required to present your high school diploma or the equivalent. Most programs consist of around 60 to 64 credits, and many of them allow you to transfer your credits to a bachelor’s degree program.
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