A bachelor's in data analytics helps students obtain valuable insights from data by developing the hard skills essential for analytical careers.
With our continued reliance on technology, we continue to generate massive quantities of data that perpetually grow in size. Modern data analysts can organize this significant volume of information to develop insights and offer recommendations to businesses and other organizations.
The following page discusses the benefits of obtaining data analytics degrees, what these programs entail, and a ranking of the top bachelor's degrees in data analytics.
Why Get a Data Analytics Bachelor's Degree?
Though the concept of analyzing data to make important decisions has been around for centuries, the data analysis industry — a subsection of data science — has evolved into its own field with the rise of technology that helps store, organize, and study ever-increasing amounts of data. The contemporary data analysis expert can find work as a data scientist, data engineer, or data analyst.
Almost every field can benefit from data analytics: Industries from healthcare to manufacturing hire experts to better understand their business and optimize processes. According to 2022 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the U.S. employs 168,900 data scientists. The BLS also projects career opportunities in the field will grow 35% between 2022 and 2032.
Individuals with an interest in computers, logic, and transforming data into decisions may thrive in the data analytics field. A bachelor's degree in data analytics is designed to cover crucial analysis tools and concepts, preparing students for careers in the field.
Bachelor's in computer science programs may include data science or data analysis coursework and provide learners with a broader knowledge base in coding and technology. Online bachelor's degrees in computer science can offer increased flexibility for learners with family or career obligations.
In addition to a full bachelor's degree, data analytics learners can attend a shorter, more focused program. Coding bootcamps, an alternative to traditional degrees, offer a condensed timeline for enrollees to learn essential data analytics skills.
Benefits of earning a data analytics bachelor's degree include:
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Career Flexibility: Data analytics experts can apply their skills to multiple industries, allowing them to pursue careers in an array of fields.
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In-Demand Skills: Because companies increasingly use data to make decisions regarding marketing, manufacturing, and sales, professionals who can transform large volumes of data into business insights are in high demand.
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Versatile Knowledge: Data analytics students learn statistics, coding languages such as SQL and Python, data visualization, and business skills. This widely applicable knowledge can help them qualify for a variety of careers, increasing their competitiveness on the job market.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What To Expect From Bachelor's in Data Analytics Programs
The main goal of data analytics programs is teaching learners to convert raw data into analytical insights. Enrollees study programming, math, and communication skills. Bachelor's degrees in this subject typically take four years of full-time study and require 120 credit hours. Some undergraduate programs may include capstone project requirements that ask students to demonstrate their accumulated data analytics skills.
Data analytics bachelor's come in a variety of forms, including BA and BS degrees. Some schools offer computer science degrees with a concentration in data analytics. Individual courses vary by degree type and institution. Tuition can also vary widely, with rates often ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 annually.
Admission Requirements
Bachelor's in data analytics admission requirements vary by program. Generally, prospective students need a high school diploma or equivalent. They submit official transcripts, fill out an online application, and pay a fee.
Applicants may also need to provide materials like a resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Some programs require students to have a minimum GPA — often 2.5-2.75 — and others ask for scores from standardized tests like the ACT or SAT. The Common App allows prospective learners to send one application to multiple schools.
Degree Options
Data analytics programs run in multiple formats — in-person degrees, hybrid programs, and online offerings with synchronous or asynchronous classes. Asynchronous online programs typically have more flexible schedules for assignments and lectures, as they do not meet at set times during the week. Consequently, these degrees can benefit learners with busy schedules. Students who enjoy face-to-face interaction and more rigid structures may benefit from an on-campus program.
Some schools offer bachelor of arts data science degrees, while other institutions' programs culminate in a bachelor of science. Generally, BA degrees include a wider breadth of general education courses to develop communication and critical thinking skills, while BS degrees often focus more heavily on logic and quantitative thinking. Data analysis degrees may include concentrations in subfields like computational data, environmental systems data, and social data.
Popular Bachelor's in Data Analytics Courses
Specific data analytics classes vary by institution. However, the courses below are common across many programs.
- Introduction to Data Science: This introductory data science course covers statistical and analytical techniques. Enrollees analyze data sets and demonstrate their findings.
- Data Visualization: Data analysts must boil down data and display their findings to stakeholders. Courses in data visualization teach students to do this work, covering topics like design principles, color theory, and storytelling to ensure best practices for conveying data analysis.
- Algorithm Design: Algorithm design courses teach students to convert qualitative ideas into algorithms. Enrollees also learn which algorithms to apply in specific situations.
- Business Intelligence: Business intelligence courses discuss how to use data analytics to help business strategies. Learners study data types, patterns, statistics, and presentation skills.
How Much Will a Bachelor's in Data Analytics Cost?
Depending on the school, the tuition for a bachelor's in data science degree can range from $10,000 to $30,000 annually. Public or private school status, student state residency, and Institutional prestige can all impact tuition expenses.
Prospective students should also budget for additional expenses, including housing, transportation, and food. Learners can apply for multiple forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans. Individuals interested in learning more about financial aid can follow the links below.
Jobs for Graduates of Data Analytics Programs
Skilled data analysts can pursue careers like data scientist, database administrator, and business analyst. These jobs may require similar underlying knowledge, but ask workers to apply their skills in different ways. Advanced positions, including senior data scientist and computer research scientist, may require additional degrees or experience. Data analysts can find office jobs or work-from-home tech roles.
Common jobs for graduates of data analytics bachelor's programs include:
Data scientists identify data sources, gather data, and analyze the resulting information. These professionals may use a combination of data mining, machine learning, and algorithms in their work. Data scientists must present findings to management and non-technical individuals.
- 2022 Median Annual Salary: $103,500
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +35%
Database administrators create and maintain systems to store data. Administrators ensure databases have sufficient security to prevent data loss or intrusion. Industries with large volumes of data, including healthcare and logistics, often employ database administrators.
- 2022 Median Annual Salary: $112,120
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +8%
Computer programmers use coding languages to create and maintain software. Companies expect these professionals to understand and work in multiple programming languages. Programmers also need to test and debug codes to ensure they work correctly.
- 2022 Median Annual Salary: $97,800
- Job Outlook (2022-32): -11%
Business Analyst
Business analysts use data and business acumen to offer insights and solutions to corporations. Analysts usually work with structured data and spend time communicating with clients. Individuals in this profession should understand the financial implications of choices and have financial modeling skills.
- September 2023 Average Annual Salary: $66,580
- Job Outlook (2022-32): Not available
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Choosing a Bachelor's in Data Analytics Program
When researching bachelor's in data analytics programs, prospective attendees must consider multiple factors. The following list discusses important aspects to investigate for each potential school.
- Accreditation: Students should ensure every school they consider holds institutional accreditation, which verifies that the school meets standards of academic excellence. Additionally, specific programs or departments can hold programmatic accreditation, which examines how well coursework prepares enrollees for careers in the field. Organizations like ABET and the Data Science Council of America offer programmatic accreditation to data analysis programs.
- Financial Aid: Attendees should research financial aid opportunities at potential schools. Scholarships and grants, which do not require repayment, can help defray the expenses of earning a bachelor's degree.
- Program Length: Most bachelor degree programs take four years of full-time study, but accelerated options allow students to graduate faster.
- Course Offerings: Applicants with clear career goals should ensure that prospective programs offer courses or specializations that can impart the skills and knowledge necessary for these jobs.
- Career Outcomes: Schools may publish data about graduate job placement rates and wages. Programs with high job placement rates and average graduate salaries can signal career support for enrollees and a positive return on investment for the degree.
Should You Get Your Degree Online?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 59% of postsecondary students were enrolled in at least some distance education courses in 2021. Online courses have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and flexibility.
Data analytics programs may be particularly well-suited to online learning due to the computer-based nature of coding and data analysis tools. However, distance education typically requires self-sufficiency and strong time management skills, so these degrees may not be ideal for all students.
More Options to Learn Data Analytics
Best Data Analytics Bootcamps
Online Data Analytics Bootcamps
Top Master's Degrees in Data Analytics
Overview of Data Science Degrees
Top Five Bachelor's in Data Analytics Degrees
Nearly every industry relies on data to make business decisions. As industries have become more reliant on data-driven insights, employers' need for data analytics professionals has also grown.
Want to learn to use data professionally? This guide spotlights five bachelor's in data analytics degrees and discusses admission requirements, tuition rates, and curriculum offerings. The following link covers how we rank schools.
#1 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics 2023
Bentley University
- Waltham, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
Avg. Cost:
In-State | $58,150/ year
Out-of-State | $58,150/ year
Credits to Graduate: 122
Like many data analytics majors, the program at Bentley University combines mathematics, statistics, and computing courses, with hands-on training in R, Python, and SQL. One of the unique factors of the program, however, is the parallel focus on how to effectively communicate technical findings. This can help graduates more effectively use their knowledge in a dynamic, real-world context.
With this combination, graduates will gain an understanding of core concepts and techniques, enabling them to apply their skills effectively and communicate results.
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics 2023
Bryan College-Dayton
- Dayton, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost:
In-State | $395/credit
Out-of-State | $395/credit
Credits to Graduate: 120
The Data Analytics program at Bryan College focuses on the essential core functions of data science such as programming, math, and research. Compared to other programs, however, there is more of an emphasis on electives and allowing students to elect complementary courses that might make them more well-rounded employees.
However, as a religious university, those electives do include at least three Christian studies courses. They offer in-person courses in Tennessee.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics 2023
CUNY New York City College of Technology
- Brooklyn, NY
- 4 years
- Campus
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Avg. Cost:
In-State | $305/credit
Out-of-State | $620/credit
Credits to Graduate: 120
The New York City College of Technology data science bachelor program is unique because it is dual data analytics and economics. In addition to the standard courses on mathematics and computer systems technology, students will take courses including applied micro and macroeconomics, and behavioral economics.
Before graduating, students are also required to participate in a semester-long internship or a research project in order to provide them with real-world experience.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics 2023
Drake University
- Des Moines, IA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost:
In-State | $24,733/semester
Out-of-State | $24,733/semester
Credits to Graduate: 120
Drake University has paired with Zimpleman College of Business to create a bachelor's, as well as a minor, in data analytics. There is also a strong focus on business knowledge to help students find work in a broader variety of industries and roles after graduation.
Drake University has also paired with companies in the greater Des Moines area to assist students in landing an internship and starting their new career.
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics 2023
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $41,200/year
Out-of-State | $41,200/year
Credits to Graduate: 120
The data analytics bachelor's at Lynn University combines business, information technology, and mathematics to help students break into the IT field. The focus points of this program are data mining, visualization, and programming. Overall, there is more of an emphasis on the skills needed to use analytics for business rather than just technical skills or experience.
The program is offered in person only at their campus in Boca Raton, Florida. For students who wish to complete their degree as quickly as possible, there is also a 3-year track.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
FAQ About Bachelor's in Data Analytics Degrees
What is a degree in data analytics?
Data analytics programs teach learners coding, math, and business skills to obtain insights from data sets. Students learn to organize data, build algorithms, and communicate results with non-technical coworkers.
What can you do with a bachelor's degree in data analytics?
Graduates with bachelor's degrees in data analytics can pursue roles like data scientist, computer programmer, and business analyst.
Is a bachelor's in data analytics worth it?
Individuals with a passion for data and extracting information may find a bachelor's in data analytics worth it. Because many careers in this field offer higher-than-average salaries, earning this degree can offer a positive return on investment.
What degree is best for data analytics?
A bachelor's in data analytics, data science, or computer science provides the fundamental knowledge to pursue relevant entry-level positions in this field. Advanced positions may require experience or additional degrees.
Page last reviewed on September 22, 2023.
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