Data science is an expansive and rapidly growing field, making a career in it one of the most in-demand today. As the value of data-driven decision-making continues to grow, data science jobs are only going to become more numerous and desirable. The best online PhD in Data Science will help you launch or further your career in data science more than any other degree.
Getting your data science PhD online allows you to get a quality education within a flexible learning schedule, giving you the opportunity to accelerate your journey up the career ladder. Finding the right data science doctoral program can be challenging, but this article will tell you all you need to know about the best online PhDs in Data Science and the data science jobs you can get with one.
Can You Get a PhD in Data Science Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Data Science online. Many schools offer online data science programs alongside in-person programs. These online courses often have the same core courses and admission and graduation requirements as their on-campus counterparts but provide extra advantages like accelerating your learning and having lower tuition costs.
Is an Online PhD Respected?
Yes, an online PhD is respected. Nowadays, most employers have no preference when it comes to the learning format of your degree. Whether online or in-person, having a PhD demonstrates that you are self-disciplined, have a solid work ethic, and can manage your time well. Prospective PhD students should only consider programs offered by accredited institutions.
What Is the Best Online PhD Program in Data Science?
The best online PhD program in data science is the PhD in Information Systems – Analytics offered by Dakota State University. This doctorate degree program has an extensive curriculum delivered using cutting-edge technology and is taught by experienced faculty who can provide ample career support and excellent research opportunities for your dissertation process.
Why Dakota State University Has the Best Online PhD Program in Data Science
Dakota State University has the best online data science PhD program because of its world-class faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and state-of-the-art facilities. Their faculty have years of experience working in the industry, the curriculum gives students a well-rounded, hands-on education, and the school’s high-tech facilities allow students to learn seamlessly remotely.
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Online PhD in Data Science Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for an online PhD in Data Science include having a bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as math, data science, statistics, and mathematical analytics. Other common requirements include submitting your official transcripts, GRE test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose or intent.
Online PhD in Data Science Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or letter of intent
- GRE test scores
Best Online PhDs in Data Science: Top Degree Program Details
| School | Program | Estimated Length |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Technology University | PhD in Business Analytics and Data Science | 3 years |
| Clarkson University | PhD in Computer Science | 3 years |
| Colorado Technical University | PhD in Big Data Analytics | 3 years |
| Dakota State University | PhD in Information Systems – Analytics | 3 years |
| Grand Canyon University | DBA in Data Analytics – Quantitative | 3 years |
| Harrisburg University | PhD in Data Sciences | N/A |
| Northcentral University | PhD in Data Science | 3.5 years |
| University of Cumberlands | Online PhD in Information Technology | N/A |
| University of North Texas | PhD in Information Science – Data Science | N/A |
| University of Rhode Island | PhD in Computer Science | 4-5 years |
Best Online PhDs in Data Science: Top University Programs to Get a PhD in Data Science Online
The top university programs to get a PhD in Data Science are offered by a wide variety of public and private institutions across the country. The best online PhDs in Data Science cater as much to full-time students as they do part-time students and provide huge amounts of courses covering topics such as statistical theory, integrative data science, linear algebra, and more.
Online Data Science PhD Graduation Rates: How Hard Is It to Complete an Online PhD Program in Data Science?
It is hard to complete an online PhD program in data science. For example, the graduation rate for Colorado Technical University is about 23 percent. The degree requirements for online data science PhDs require a massive amount of hard work to complete. PhDs are terminal programs which means that the topics they cover are extremely advanced and complex.
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Data Science Online?
It takes about three to four years to get a PhD in Data Science online for full-time students but this can vary. The core courses doctoral students take in data mining, machine learning, and big data analysis can be daunting for both full-time students in a full-time program or part-time students. The dissertation committee not approving your thesis can also extend your studies.
Students can accelerate their program by developing a degree completion plan with their advisor and should take advantage of every resource their school offers. That being said, graduate students should try to get involved in their field of study as much as possible and network with professionals in their field. Taking the time to do so can be beneficial and completing your PhD as fast as possible isn’t always ideal.
How Hard Is an Online Doctorate in Data Science?
An online doctorate in data science is relatively hard. While, compared to a traditional PhD, an online PhD can be relatively easier to obtain due to a shorter program length, obtaining a PhD is no walk in the park. Online PhDs from an accredited university have an equally rigorous curriculum as on-campus PhDs and their faculty assess each student’s work with equal scrutiny.
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What Courses Are in an Online Data Science PhD Program?
The courses in an online Data Science PhD program typically include statistical modeling, statistical theory, quantitative analytics, business analytics, probability theory, data mining, qualitative and quantitative methods in research, and statistical computing, but can vary from program to program.
Main Areas of Study in a Data Science PhD Program
- Big data analytics
- Statistical modeling
- Business analytics
- Decision analysis
How Much Does Getting an Online Data Science PhD Cost?
It costs $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Data Science on average, according to a 2019 report by the National Center for Education Statistics. However, the actual cost of obtaining a PhD will vary on the individual school’s tuition and fees. Furthermore, the type of school will also influence the cost of attendance, with private institutions usually being more expensive than public ones.
How to Pay for an Online PhD Program in Data Science
You can pay for an online PhD program through scholarships, bursaries, grants, student loans, and other financial aid opportunities. Many schools and organizations provide financial aid programs to help students cover their tuition and other additional fees like living expenses. At the PhD level, this can include fellowships and research or teaching assistantships.
How to Get an Online PhD for Free
You cannot get an online PhD for free. Regardless of the delivery method, all universities charge tuition for their PhD programs which you will have to pay alongside some additional fees. Do not confuse a fully-funded program, which is sponsored through government spending or charitable organizations, for a free PhD. Currently, there are no fully funded online data science PhDs.
What Is the Most Affordable Online PhD in Data Science Degree Program?
The most affordable online PhD in Data Science degree program is the PhD in Information Systems offered by Dakota State University. Its online PhD program cost $3,365.10 per semester for South Dakota residents. If completed in three years, this will only cost a total of around $20,190.60 to earn, which is about $28,000 cheaper than the University of Rhode Island’s PhD program.
Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in Data Science: In Brief
| School | Program | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Dakota State University | PhD in Information Systems | $3,365.10 per semester |
| University of the Cumberlands | PhD in Information Technology | $500 per credit |
| Colorado Technical University | PhD in Big Data Analytics | $598 per credit |
| Harrisburg University | PhD in Data Science | $650 per credit |
| Grand Canyon University | DBA in Data Analytics | $715 per credit |
Why You Should Get an Online PhD in Data Science
You should get an online PhD in Data Science because it costs less compared to the traditional PhD and can usually be completed much faster. An online PhD in Data Science will allow you to pursue your academic goals while still letting you work. Best of all, online PhD programs provide you the same curriculum quality and personal attention as in-person programs.
Top Reasons for Getting a PhD in Data Science
- Job Opportunities. A doctorate is the highest academic degree you can get and a graduate with a PhD can adapt to almost any aspect of the field they specialized in. A PhD provides you with the qualifications you need for a wide range of positions in the field of data science and beyond.
- Higher Pay. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, PhD graduates earn an average salary of $1,909 per week, while master’s degree graduates earn $1,574, and bachelor’s degree graduates only earn $1,334. This is a firm indication that getting a PhD will significantly increase your average income.
- Specialized Skills. A PhD in Data Science can help you build specialized skills by allowing you to focus on fields such as machine learning, deep learning, or natural language processing. You can also choose to specialize in a certain industry, such as healthcare, finance, or retail.
- Career Boost. Earning a PhD in Data Science will significantly upgrade your knowledge of the field, provide you with numerous networking opportunities, academic versatility, and transferable skills, and qualify you for the highest-earning positions in your field of study.
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What Is the Difference Between an On-Campus Data Science PhD and an Online PhD in Data Science?
The difference between an on-campus data science PhD and an online PhD in Data Science is in the learning format. They both offer the same quality of coursework and faculty, but there are some slight differences. This section highlights those unique characteristics and weighs the pros and cons.
Online PhD vs On-Campus PhD: Key Differences
- Asynchronous Coursework. Many online programs allow you to study independently from your classmates by making pre-recorded lectures and learning materials available anytime and anywhere. Depending on how you learn best, this can be good or bad.
- Affordability. Online programs are usually cheaper to attend than on-campus programs because they use fewer of the university’s facilities and resources. Online students also get to spend less on learning materials and costs related to transportation.
- Program length. A traditional on-campus PhD can take as long as seven years to complete, which is significantly higher than the three-to-five-year range of most online PhD programs. Many online programs also offer an accelerated option with full time-study, which can potentially half the time it takes to obtain a degree.
- Interaction with faculty and students. PhD students enrolled in an in-person program usually have a lot more face-to-face contact with their peers and professors, which can make them a better option for students needing a dedicated learning environment. Online PhD programs are a great option for students who learn particularly well independently.
How to Get a PhD in Data Science Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
To get a PhD in Data Science online, you must have completed a Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Data Science, Data Analytics, or another related field. Next, you’ll have to apply to an accredited institution, complete the core and required courses, pass a qualifying examination, and complete your research work. Although they can vary, here are the typical steps you’ll need to take to earn yours.
Online PhD in Data Science Salary and Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 22 percent growth for data science jobs between 2020 and 2030 and a PhD in the field gives you a huge leg up over other candidates when applying for this surge of new jobs. This demand for data scientists is also reflected in their annual earnings as they can earn between approximately $80,000 and $180,000 per year, depending on their title.
What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Data Science?
With an online doctorate in data science, you can work in senior roles as a senior data scientist or chief data officer. You may also work in other related data disciplines like machine learning, automation, or artificial intelligence, depending on your concentration. A PhD online program also qualifies you to work in academia or research, if that’s where your interests lie.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Data Science?
- Chief data scientist
- Chief data officer
- Data science director
- Senior data scientist
- Senior data analyst
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What Is the Average Salary for an Online PhD Holder in Data Science?
The average salary for a PhD in Data Science is $133,000 per year, according to PayScale. Naturally, the amount of money you actually earn will depend on certain factors such as your position, location, employer, and experience. That being said, you will easily be able to earn higher than the average as you gain more experience and leverage your specialized skills.
Highest-Paying Data Science Jobs for PhD Grads
| Online Data Science PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Chief Data Scientist | $179,351 |
| Chief Data Officer | $176,693 |
| Data Science Director | $157,128 |
| Senior Data Scientist | $127,452 |
| Senior Data Analyst | $84,491 |
Best Data Science Jobs for Online PhD Holders
The best data science jobs for online PhD holders are positions reserved for professionals at the peak of their business or data science careers. Examples of such professionals include chief data officers, chief data scientists, senior data scientists, data science directors, and senior data analysts.
Is It Worth It to Do a PhD in Data Science Online?
Yes, it is worth it to do a PhD in Data Science online. The lectures are delivered online, which is convenient for busy professionals and the tuition is usually less expensive than its on-campus alternative. Online PhDs are respected by employers and other institutions as long as it was acquired from an accredited institution.
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Online PhD in Data Science FAQ
Many schools will prefer candidates who have a background in statistics, data science, computer science, IT, physics, and mathematics. Having completed foundational courses in linear algebra and differential equations, social sciences, and physical sciences will also help you qualify for admission.
A fully-funded PhD in Data Science is a program whose tuition can be fully covered by scholarships offered either by the government or by the school itself. They also sometimes provide stipends to help cover living expenses. Unfortunately, there are no fully funded online Data Science PhD programs.
Yes, you can get a good job with an online PhD in Data Science. Because a PhD is the highest level of education you can get in the field, you are almost guaranteed to have a leg up over other applicants when applying for jobs in your field.
To choose an online PhD in Data Science program, you should consider the student-to-faculty ratio, the school’s retention rate, and the program’s available concentration areas. Many schools offer a health-related field concentration such as precision medicine, biomedical and health informatics, computational biology, or population health.
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