Data science is a crucial field in a wide range of industries. Associate Degrees in Data Science can put you on a path to getting a tech job that pays $100k or more. The best part of pursuing data science associate degrees is that you do not need to spend as much time or money as you would at a four-year university.
If you want to pursue a career in data science, data science associate degree programs are an excellent way to start. This guide will highlight the best Associate Degrees in Data Science and everything you need to know before enrolling in one of these programs. You will learn enough to enter the data science field in an entry-level job.
What Is Data Science?
In simple terms, data science is the study of data. Experts in this field study where data comes from, its meaning, and the different ways it can be used to create value for IT and business strategies. Data science relies on advanced tools that can process large datasets from different sources. Common sources of data include multimedia files, financial logs, text files, marketing forms, and sensors.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Data Science?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Data Science include Northcentral Technical College and Hocking College. When determining where to get an Associate Degree in Data Science, students have several options.
You can get an Associate Degree in Data Science at a variety of community colleges. However, universities, like those mentioned above, may also offer data science associate degree programs. There are also online degrees available for online students, which teach soft skills and critical thinking just as well as in-person programs.
What Schools Offer the Best Data Science Associate Degrees?
- Florida State College at Jacksonville
- Hocking College
- Northcentral Technical College
- Saint Paul College
- Sinclair Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Data Science?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Data Science can vary widely. In most cases, you’ll have to submit a letter of recommendation together with your high school diploma or GED, as well as standardized test scores and your grade point average (GPA).
In some cases, Associate in Data Science requirements may include submitting a short essay outlining your goals. In addition, some schools may require students to take preparatory courses before the program. There are no programming language requirements for an Associate Degree in Data Science.
Data Science Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school transcripts
- Proof of immunizations (if required)
- Completed application form
- Payment of application fee (if needed)
How to Get an Associate Degree in Data Science
You can get a data science associate degree by attending an associate program at a community college or university. A data science associate degree is an academic program offered at the undergraduate level. It gives students the skills and knowledge needed to progress to a bachelor’s degree or to enter the workforce.
The best way to get an Associate Degree in Data Science is to join a full-time, two-year program at a reputable institution. Since this is not an advanced degree, you do not need any prior data science knowledge to join an associate degree program.
Students enrolled in an Associate Degree in Data Science learn crucial topics like data mining, data visualization, statistics, algorithms, and data acquisition and cleaning. You can find in-person as well as online programs.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Data Science?
You usually need to complete 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Data Science. Some data science associate degrees require up to 65 credits. An associate degree is a two-year program that provides students the foundational knowledge they need to begin seeking career opportunities or to continue their education in the field.
Data Science Degree Requirements
- Complete 60 total credit hours
- Complete up to 15 credit hours of general studies
- Maintain at least a C-level grade point average
- Pass intermediate-level statistics courses
- Pass database management courses
Best Data Science Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Brookdale Community College | Associate of Science in Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | Associate in Science in Data Science Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Hocking College | Associate of Science in Data Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Lone Star College | Associate of Applied Science in Data Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Nashua Community College | Associate of Science in Data Analytics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Northcentral Technical College | Associate Degree in Data Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northwestern Connecticut Community College | Associate of Science in Data Science | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Saint Paul College | Data Science Associate of Science Degree | Higher Learning Commission |
| Sinclair Community College | Associate Of Applied Science in Data Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Tunxis Community College | Associate in Science Degree in Technology Studies – Data Science Option | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Schools for Data Science: Top Data Science Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for data science associate degrees are those that offer an accessible data science education. The best data science associate programs offer students all of the foundation knowledge they need to begin careers in the field of data science or to continue their studies.
Typically a two-year commitment, an associate degree is much faster, and often cheaper, than a bachelor’s degree. Discover our in-depth overview of the best schools for an Associate Degree in Data Science below. These schools offer the top data science associate programs.
What Is a Data Science Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Data Science is a two-year program that provides students with the foundational knowledge they need to either continue their education or enter the workforce. A data science associate degree is an undergraduate degree that will cover topics surrounding computer science, information technology, and more. With this degree, students can work as data analysts or data scientists.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Data Science?
An Associate Degree in Data Science is important because it allows you to begin the process of breaking into the profession of data science. One of the reasons why a data science associate degree is important is that it gives you the flexibility to either continue your education or enter the workforce in just two years.
Getting a degree in data science is important because it is a technical field that requires professionals to operate at a high level. A degree program will provide you with the technical knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the field. In addition, getting certifications in data science can also be useful for your career potential.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Data Science?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for data science:
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Applied Science
The two data science associate degree types are very similar but they often have one key difference. An Associate of Science degree prepares students to continue their education and work towards a bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, an Associate of Applied Science program will typically aim at providing students with the necessary technical knowledge to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
Based on your own career and educational goals, one may be more suitable than the other. For example, if you want to start working in data science after just two years of studying, an Associate of Applied Science in Data Science would be the best degree choice.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Data Science?
It is better to get an Associate of Applied Science in Data Science because it will better prepare you to start working after graduation. However, when considering which is better, an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Data Science, it is important to consider your own educational goals.
The difference between an Associate of Science degree in data science or an Associate of Applied Science is that the former will provide you with more of the foundational and theoretic knowledge you need to excel in a bachelor’s degree program.
Though you can continue your education with either degree, some of the credits may not transfer from an Associate of Applied Science program. As such, getting the practical skills that an Associate of Applied Science in Data Science provides is better for getting a job if you only plan on studying for two years.
What Is the Difference Between a Data Science Associate Degree and a Data Science Certificate?
The primary difference between a data science associate degree and a certificate in data science is that a certificate is aimed at providing focused and practical job-based knowledge. On the other hand, an associate degree will provide students with a wide breadth of knowledge and may also involve broader course content. When considering a data science certificate vs an associate degree, you should know that an associate degree will be more valuable to your future.
You should get a data science degree instead of a certificate because it will provide you with well-rounded knowledge and skills that will help you be successful in the professional world. Employers will also recognize that the value of an associate degree is much higher than just a data science certificate.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Data Science?
Data science associate degrees cost $3,621 per year, according to the average cost of an associate degree from the National Center of Education Statistics. However, it is important to note that this estimated Associate Degree in Data Science cost does not include room and board or other costs of attendance.
In addition, this figure can vary considerably depending on the type of institution. While you can attend a public school for just 3,377 a year, private institutions cost nearly $16,000. This price may also change depending on whether you plan to attend the program part-time or full-time.
Data Science Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Data Science Degree
There are several ways to finance your data science associate degree, including federal loans, private loans, scholarships, and grants. In addition, some schools allow you to work while you study. Others have flexible payment options like deferred tuition schemes or income share agreements (ISAs).
You can apply for financial aid for Associate degrees in Data science directly through your institution or through government programs such as the FAFSA. If you are still not sure how to pay for an Associate in Data Science, it is best to reach out to your institution’s financial aid office as there are often payment plans or scholarships available.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Science Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Data Science. Though the exact Associate in Data Science length may vary from program to program, associate degrees typically require around 60 credit hours. This means that after taking 15 credits for four semesters, you can graduate with an Associate Degree in Data Science.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Data Science?
An Associate Degree in Data Science is easy to get when compared to any other academic degree. That being said, getting a data science associate degree is still hard as it requires technical coursework and multiple years of studying.
As data science is a technical field, students will need to learn complex topics such as programming, data modeling, data mining, and more. Though getting an associate degree is much easier than getting a bachelor’s degree, the subject matter of this particular field is still complex and may be challenging for many students.
Why Should You Get a Data Science Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Data Science are gaining essential foundational knowledge, building your network in the field, and developing the skills necessary for employment. Big data has changed the way organizations operate. An Associate Degree in Data Science can give you the opportunity to work in different sectors, from healthcare and finance to marketing and technology.
This degree can offer job security because data analysis skills are in high demand today. The benefits of an Associate Degree in Data Science also include acquiring valuable skills in mathematics, computer science, and comparative statistics that will allow you to switch to some of the best jobs in tech. In addition, the benefits of getting a second Associate Degree in Data Science are that you can further specialize your area of knowledge and boost your resume.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Data Science?
The required courses for a data science associate degree include introductory programming and analytics courses as well as data visualization courses. Much like a computer science degree, an associate program in data science will consist of around 60 credit hours that cover topics from data modeling to various programming languages. For Associate Degree in Data Science courses, you can also expect to learn about statistics. Check out the common Associate in Data Science course list below.
Database Management Fundamentals
This course covers the topics of database query languages, object oriented design, and information systems and models. Students will learn how to use SQL and how to work within a database. In this course, students will also learn how to design databases.
Intro to Computing and Programming
This course will help students become familiar with computational problem-solving. Through this course, students will be able to identify problems and determine which computer-centered strategy would be most useful. Students will also learn how to build a solution and implement it accordingly.
Intermediate Statistics
Students will learn important statistical methods such as nonparametric methods, various types of regressions, component and Bayesian data analysis, and ANOVA and survival. At the end of this course, students will have a better understanding of computer outputs and how to use the various practices covered to gain meaningful insights.
Intro to Algorithms and Data Structures
In this introductory course, students will learn how to tackle problems using algorithms and data structures. Students will utilize software tools and software design practices to reach their goals. They will gain experience in choosing which method or tool is best used in particular scenarios and will also learn how to troubleshoot undesired outcomes.
Data Visualization
Students will learn the best techniques and practices to visualize data. They will gain an understanding of how data visuals are used in real-life industries. Class projects will allow students to practice data visualization in a hands-on manner. This is an advanced course, so previous experience with programming is typically advised. As such, you should take other Associate in Data Science courses first.
Continuing Education Paths for Data Science Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a data science associate degree is to move on to a bachelor’s degree. After graduating from an associate degree program and transferring your credits to a four-year institution, you will typically only need to study for two more years to earn a Bachelor’s in Data Science.
You may even be able to transfer your credits towards a related bachelor’s degree such as computer science or data analytics if you prefer. Regardless, getting a bachelor’s degree is the most common path after an Associate Degree in Data Science.
Related Data Science Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Data Science Associate Degree Programs
The best data science degree programs have a comprehensive curriculum that will provide students with a strong foundation in data science. You can expect to learn about topics such as programming and database modeling from a data science associate degree. The points below will help you determine what to look for in a college for an Associate Degree in Data Science.
Continuing Education Options
Most often, those who graduate with an Associate Degree in Data Science go on to pursue a bachelor’s degree in a similar field or within data science itself. As such, it is important to make sure that your hard-earned associate degree credits are transferable to a four-year university. Thankfully, many associate programs have established relationships and transfer agreements with bachelor programs.
Flexibility
Pursuing a higher education degree is a huge commitment that can take extensive time and energy. As such, many institutions provide their students with flexibility. Look for associate programs that help meet your needs by offering evening classes, online classes, and other flexible learning arrangements.
Curricular Content
The most important aspect of any degree program is the course material. It is essential that the coursework is relevant, meaningful, and useful to a student’s educational and career goals. Make sure that the program you want to apply to covers the various topics of knowledge that are essential in data science. Students should be able to learn about programming, data modeling, data visualization, and more.
Cost
Many students’ primary consideration in choosing a degree program is naturally the cost of attendance. A higher cost does not necessarily mean better education. You should consider the cost against the school’s reputation, the teaching style, the experience of the faculty, the course content, and the number of credits.
Accreditation
Getting an associate degree from a school that is not accredited is quite worthless. An accredited school has been vetted by a third party and established to offer a quality education. As such, a degree from such an institution will be respected by employers and four-year universities.
What Is the Most Affordable Data Science Associate Degree?
One of the most affordable programs for an Associate Degree in Data Science is from Florida State College at Jacksonville. At just $110 per credit for in-state students, this program is a very affordable data science associate program.
Another affordable Associate Degree in Data Science comes from Sinclair Community College at just $136.03 per credit for both in-state and out-of-state students. However, the most affordable Associate Degrees in Data Science are those that provide students with ample scholarship awards and financial aid.
Salary and Job Outlook for Data Science Associate Degree Graduates
There is a range of data science associate degree jobs available to graduates. With that, the expected Associate in Data Science salary can vary widely. However, there are many jobs that will allow graduates to earn a lucrative data science associate degree salary.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Data Science Associate Degree?
It is easy to get a job with a data science associate degree. However, you should be prepared to accept more entry-level roles until you gain the necessary work experience to move up the ladder. With an Associate Degree in Data Science, employers know that you have the foundational knowledge and technical skills to begin a career in data science.
In addition, data science is a rapidly growing field, so there are many job opportunities. Having a degree in data science makes you a great candidate for the variety of companies looking to fulfill this role. All you need to do is determine which industry you would like to work in.
What’s the Average Data Science Associate Degree Salary?
According to PayScale, the average salary for an Associate Degree in data science is $80,068 per year. As professionals gain real-world experience, they can earn more than six figures. However, the typical annual salary for various positions can vary widely.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Data Science Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a data science associate degree are data scientist, data modeler, database administrator, and more. Graduates can apply for many good-paying jobs with a data science degree from an associate program. One of the highest paying data science jobs for associate degree holders is simply working as a data scientist.
Data Science Degree Jobs
- Data scientist
- Data analyst
- Data modeler
- Data architect
- Business analyst
Potential Careers With a Data Science Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Data Science?
You can make $60,000 to $110,000 with an Associate Degree in Data Science. Data science is a lucrative field within the tech industry that rewards professional expertise well. With the right technical skills, data scientists can make a lot of money.
The average yearly earnings for someone with a data science associate degree is $80,068. To reach the higher end of the pay scale, you will need to gain some experience and work on significant projects. Data science is a complex profession. So, the more expertise you develop, the better you will be compensated.
Highest-Paying Data Science Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Data Science Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Data Scientist | $108,660 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Data Modeler | $83,185 |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $70,979 |
| Data Analyst | $62,789 |
Best Jobs for Data Science Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for data science associate degree grads are jobs that allow students to use their newly developed skills while earning a great salary. The best jobs for an Associate Degree in Data Science often come with great benefits and professional opportunities as well.
With an Associate Degree in Data Science, graduates can work in a variety of industries from healthcare to finance. Check out some of the best job options below.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Associate Degree in Data Science Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Data Science is worth it if you want a low barrier of entry to the data science profession. Associate degree programs are usually not competitive. As such, a variety of learners can access an associate degree education. With that, the skills and knowledge students gain in an associate program is enough to launch their tech careers.
Additional Reading About Data Science
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Data Science Associate Degree FAQ
Yes, you can get a data science job with an Associate Degree in Data Science. Some of the common job roles for this degree include business analyst, operations analyst, data scientist, operations research analyst, data analyst, data architect, and database administrator.
Data science skills are in high demand. The job outlook for professionals in this fast-growing field is quite impressive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this lucrative field is expected to grow by 22 percent from 2020 to 2030.
According to PayScale, the average salary of data scientists is $108,660 per annum. However, this salary varies significantly according to location and specialization. Some cities and industries offer higher wages than average.
An Associate of Science Degree in Data Science is worth it. It can give you the necessary foundational skills to enter the big data field or pursue education at four-year institutions. You can apply for several entry-level positions with this degree as well.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
