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Best Data Science MBA Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Joana Ferreira - May 26, 2022


Taking the best MBA in Data Science is a great education path for students seeking a career in data science. You can learn the technical skills of data scientists and the business acumen you need to make data-driven decisions and succeed. Since data science is a fast-growing career field, you have plenty of career options with various types of data science jobs .

A Master’s Degree in Data Science offers great careers in business. In fact, according to the US News & World Report, data scientists rank third in the best technology jobs in the market. Check out this article on where you can find the best data science master’s degree jobs, schools, and the admission requirements for each university offering data science MBA degrees.

Where Can I Get an MBA Degree in Data Science?

Some of the best schools to get an MBA Degree in Data Science include Arizona State University, Southern New Hampshire University, and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Some of these business schools, such as the University of Chicago, rank among the top 10 schools of the QS World University Business Masters Rankings in the United States for full-time students.

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What Schools Offer the Best Data Science MBA Degrees?

  • Arizona State University
  • Rockhurst University
  • Rutgers University
  • Southern New Hampshire University
  • University of Chicago Booth School of Business

What Are the Admission Requirements for an MBA Degree in Data Science?

The admission requirements for an MBA Degree in Data Science include official school transcripts from degree-granting schools attended, a minimum GPA, and standardized test scores. You also need to submit a resume to show your professional experience.

Some schools require a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), a Graduate Record Examination (GRE), an Executive Assessment (EA), or English proficiency tests (IELTS or TOEFL). Other requirements include essays, video essays, and letters of recommendation from academic instructors or your colleagues.

Data Science MBA Degree Admission Requirements

  • Official transcripts
  • Minimum GPA (optional, as required by the school)
  • Standardized test scores in GMAT, GRE, or EA
  • Essay and resume
  • Video essay
  • Letters of recommendation
  • English language proficiency test scores (for non-native speakers)

How to Get a Data Science MBA Degree

The best way to get a data science MBA degree is by completing all the necessary graduation requirements. Most schools require students to maintain a minimum GPA and complete 30 to 60 credits, depending on the program.

How Many Credits Do You Need for an MBA Degree in Data Science?

You need 60 credits for an MBA Degree in Data Science. These credits will be offered through core courses, elective courses, and concentration courses. Some schools also have credits for immersive learning or internships where students have the opportunity to get real-world experience. An MBA in Data Science can be an excellent option for students in developing management skills and proficiency in data analysis.

Data Science Degree Requirements

  • Core courses
  • Elective courses
  • Concentration courses
  • Immersive learning or internship

Best Data Science MBA Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School Program Accreditation
Arizona State University WP. Carey School of Business MBA – Concentration in Business Analytics Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business Business Analytics MBA Track Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cornell University SC Johnson College of Business MBA with Digital Technology Immersion Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Harvard Business School Harvard Business Analytics Program Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
New England Commission of Higher Education
Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management MBA Data Analytics Pathway Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Higher Learning Commission
Rockhurst University Helzberg School of Management MBA – Data Science Concentration Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Rutgers Business School MBA – Concentration in Analytics and Information Management Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Southern New Hampshire University MBA – Business Analytics Concentration New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Chicago Booth School of Business MBA Business Analytics Higher Learning Commission
University of Pennsylvania The Wharton School MBA Major in Business Analytics Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Best Schools for Data Science: Top Data Science MBA Degree Programs

The best schools for a data science MBA degree include Arizona State University, Harvard University, and Southern New Hampshire University. It can be challenging for students interested in data science to find the right business degrees.

To find the top data science MBA degree program, you must consider online programs, the program’s accreditation, tuition, and location. Programs can be available for students online or in person. Below we have compiled a list of some of the best MBA Degrees in Data Science.

1

Arizona State University WP. Carey School of Business

Tempe, AZ

Founded in 1886, Arizona State University (ASU) is a public research university located in Tempe, Arizona. ASU has about 100,000 students in various programs and is the nation's biggest university by enrollment. It has approximately 300 degree options. The US News & World Report named this school as the most innovative school in the US .

MBA - Concentration in Business Analytics

This online MBA is offered at ASU's top business school, WP. Carey School of Business. The program's analytics curriculum includes data mining, modeling, and predictive analytics. It’s a 30-credit program designed to prepare students for data-driven careers.

Business analyst, data analyst, and marketing and analytics consultant are some of the career options for graduates of this data science MBA degree.

MBA - Concentration in Business Analytics Overview

  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
  • Tuition: $59,794/term (in state); $95,470/term (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 21 months
  • Learning Format: In-person or online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%

MBA - Concentration in Business Analytics Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
  • Application Fee: $70
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, essay, letter of recommendation, proof of English proficiency

Applying to Arizona State University WP. Carey School of Business

  1. Make sure to meet the admission requirements.
  2. Complete the graduate admission application.
  3. Pay the application fee.
  4. Submit all the required admission documents.
2

Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business

Pittsburgh, PA

The Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) was founded in 1949 and has grown to become one of the leading schools for management education. It’s also known to be a pioneer in analytical decision-making and management science. This School of Business currently has over 500 MBA students.

Business Analytics MBA Track

This MBA program offers a business analytics concentration with a lot of practical applications  in data science. Its business analytics courses include Modern Data Management, Mining Unstructured Data, and Forecasting Time Series Data, which are useful to students who want to learn how to manage tons of data. It also has dedicated application courses in operations, finance, and marketing.

To complete this program, students need to take eight specialization courses through a mix of in-person and online classes and then finish a capstone project.

Business Analytics MBA Track Overview

  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
  • Tuition: $15,475/semester
  • Required Credits: 96 credits
  • Program Length: 18 months
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 93%

Business Analytics MBA Track Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.32
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT, GRE, or EA
  • Application Fee: $200
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Resume, essay, one professional recommendation, transcripts of all academic work, proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)

Applying to Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business

  1. Complete the online application in the portal.
  2. Upload all the required and supporting documents.
  3. Pay the application fee.
  4. Wait for an interview invitation.
3

Cornell University SC Johnson College of Business

Ithaca, NY

Cornell University was founded in 1865 and is a private Ivy League university located in Ithaca, New York. The university has a total enrollment of over 25,000 students. It established its SC Johnson College of Business in 1946, which is now offering a range of programs, including an Executive MBA, Master of Science, and Master in Professional Studies.

MBA with Digital Technology Immersion

This MBA degree offers immersive learning paths. One of which is Digital Technology Immersion (DTI), which allows students to learn intensively about digital technology and data science. This core curriculum combines coursework and hands-on experience through practical and actionable solutions for a company project.

In the MBA core course, not only will students learn about management and strategy, but they will also deep dive into data analytics and modeling. The full program can prepare students for a career in consulting in digital technology, analytics, and data science.

MBA with Digital Technology Immersion Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition: $76,690/term
  • Required Credits: 48 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 95%

MBA with Digital Technology Immersion Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.34
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
  • Application Fee: $200
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Academic records and transcripts, resume, goals statement and essay, one letter of professional recommendation, proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)

Applying to Cornell University SC Johnson College of Business

  1. Check your eligibility for an MBA and consider your financing options.
  2. Complete the online application form.
  3. Submit all the required admissions documents.
  4. Wait for an interview invitation from a faculty advisor after the preliminary review of your application.
  5. Wait for the admissions decision.
4

Harvard University Business School

Cambridge, MA

Founded in 1908, the Harvard University Business School offered the first MBA program in the world. The school offers a wide range of degree programs, from undergraduate to doctorate. More than 40,000 students are enrolled at the school, on-campus and online. Harvard Business School is known for producing some of the world's most successful business leaders.

Harvard Business Analytics Program

The Harvard Business Analytics program provides students with a solid foundation in business analytics. The curriculum includes fundamental courses that help students understand how to incorporate data into their organizational strategy. It’s well-suited for professionals who want to lead amid innovation and change and specialize in emerging data trends and technologies.]

Harvard Business Analytics Program Overview

  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Tuition: $19,250/term
  • Required Credits: Non-credit course
  • Program Length: 9 months (full time), 18 months (part time)
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 98%

Harvard Business Analytics Program Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree
  • Other Requirements: Transcripts from degree-granting schools attended, current professional resume, one essay, one letter of recommendation, proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)

Applying to Harvard Business School

  1. Submit your application form and admissions document online before the deadline.
  2. Wait for the invitation for an interview.
  3. Submit a written reflection letter through the online application system.
  4. Wait for further instructions from the school on the next steps.
5

Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management

The School of Commerce at Northwestern University was first established in 1908. Later in 1969, it was renamed the Kellogg School of Management. Considered a prestigious business school, it’s well-known for its entrepreneurial, marketing, and management programs.

MBA Data Analytics Pathway

This program equips students with the analytical mindset and skills necessary to be successful data analysts. In this pathway, students have the opportunity to specialize in one of three areas: business analytics, data science, or marketing analytics. After completion, students can pursue career tracks in business intelligence and analytics, data engineering, and market research. You can pursue this program through in-person or online courses.

MBA Data Analytics Pathway Overview

  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $76,368/year
  • Required Credits: 15.5 credits
  • Program Length: 1-year
  • Learning Format: Online or in-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 95%

MBA Data Analytics Pathway Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.7
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
  • Application Fee: $250
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Essays, transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume, video essays, work experience

Applying to Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management

  1. Fill out an online application.
  2. Write an essay as well as create video essays.
  3. Submit the required admission documents, such as resume, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
  4. Pay the application fee.
  5. Wait for your interview schedule.
  6. Wait to hear whether you were accepted to the program.
6

Rockhurst University Helzberg School of Management

Rockhurst University was founded in 1910. It offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Currently, there are approximately 3,000 students enrolled at this school. It offers its MBA degrees through the Helzberg School of Management.

MBA - Data Science Concentration

This Master of Business Administration program offers a concentration in Data Science, where students can learn about predictive modeling, data visualization, big data, and more. The program has 32 credit hours, with core and concentration courses combined. You also need to complete a capstone project at the end of the program.

The program prepares students for careers in data analytics, data science, and management analysis.

MBA - Data Science Concentration Overview

  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
  • Tuition: $775/credit hour
  • Required Credits: 32 credits
  • Program Length: 1 year 6 months
  • Learning Format: In-person or online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 73%

MBA - Data Science Concentration Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.25
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
  • Application Fee: $25
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, professional resume, completed supplemental information form, proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)

Applying to Rockhurst University

  1. Complete the online application.
  2. Submit your official school transcripts.
  3. Upload your professional resume to your online application.
  4. Provide official GMAT or GRE scores or a completed supplemental information form.
7

Rutgers Business School

Newark, NJ

Founded in 1766, Rutgers University is the eighth-oldest college in the United States. It established the Rutgers Business School in 1929. Today, it has over 10,000 students spread across undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs. It’s known as an innovative leader in business education, with special recognition from Bloomberg Businessweek , Financial Times, and many others.

MBA - Concentration in Analytics and Information Management

The Rutgers Business School part-time MBA with a concentration in analytics and Information management offers students the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to lead in a data-driven world. The program is designed for working professionals and offers a flexible schedule.

The core curriculum provides a foundation in business fundamentals, while the concentration in analytics and information management gives students the ability to harness data to make better strategic decisions and drive innovation.

MBA - Concentration in Analytics and Information Management Overview

  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
  • Tuition: $14,198 (in state), $24,649 (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 15 credits
  • Program Length: 1-year
  • Learning Format: Online or in-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 65%

MBA - Concentration in Analytics and Information Management Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT, GRE, or EA
  • Application Fee: $70
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, current resume, one essay, proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)

Applying to Rutgers Business School

  1. Complete the online application.
  2. Submit all the required documents.
  3. Pay the application fee.
  4. Wait for the admissions decision.
8

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, non-profit institution with almost 140,000 on-campus and online students. Founded in 1932, SNHU now offers over 200 graduate and undergraduate programs. This university has been ranked number one by the US News & World Report for being the most innovative school .

MBA - Business Analytics Concentration

SNHU’s MBA with a business analytics concentration is designed to help students develop data analysis skills and make strategic business decisions. Descriptive analytics, predictive analytics, and prescriptive analytics are its three main focus areas. After completing this 30-credit-hour course, you can build a career as a management analyst or operations research analyst.

MBA - Business Analytics Concentration Online Overview

  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Tuition: $700/credit hour
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 1 year
  • Learning Format: In-person or online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

MBA - Business Analytics Concentration Online Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.75
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Southern New Hampshire University

  1. Complete the online application.
  2. Submit official transcripts.
  3. Consult an SNHU admissions counselor to know your financial options.
  4. Confirm your enrollment.
9

University of Chicago Booth School of Business

Chicago, IL

University of Chicago Booth School of Business was founded in 1898. It offers full-time, part-time, and executive MBA programs. The school has about 3,500 enrolled MBA students. It’s known for its rigorous curriculum, faculty research, and alumni network. The US News & World Report ranked this school eighth in the best business analytics MBA programs .

MBA Business Analytics

This MBA degree is a concentration program for business analytics consisting of 2,100 units.  Here, graduate students get to understand emerging fields like data mining, machine learning, and artificial intelligence and use them for managerial decision modeling. They also learn about data science for marketing decision-making.

Graduates of this data science MBA degree can build a career in different business areas, such as operations, marketing, finance, and strategy.

MBA Business Analytics Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $74,919/year
  • Required Credits: 2100 units
  • Program Length: 1-2 years (full time), 2-3 years (part time)
  • Learning Format: In-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 96%

MBA Business Analytics Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.6
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
  • Application Fee: $250
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, resume, professional recognition or certifications, proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)

Applying to University of Chicago Booth School of Business

  1. Complete the online application and required documents before the deadline.
  2. Pay the application fee.
  3. Wait for an interview invitation.
  4. Check for the admissions decision posted in the school’s online system.
10

University of Pennsylvania The Wharton School

Philadelphia, PA

The Wharton School is the first global business school founded in 1881 at the University of Pennsylvania . The school enrolls over 2,000 graduate students in MBA and Executive MBA programs. Today, it has grown from being an entrepreneurship center to being a research center for alternative investments.

MBA Major in Business Analytics

This 19-credit unit major in business analytics teaches students about a range of data science applications in different fields, from healthcare to finance. Required courses cover data analytics and statistical computing, marketing analytics, and data for finance. Career tracks for this data science MBA degree include data scientist, business analyst, and marketing analyst.

MBA Major in Business Analytics Overview

  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
  • Tuition and Fees: $83,230/year
  • Required Credits: 19 credits
  • Program Length: 20 months
  • Learning Format: In-person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 96%

MBA Major in Business Analytics Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.6
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
  • Application Fee: $275
  • Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree
  • Other Requirements: Two essays, letters of recommendation, official transcripts, resume, proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)

Applying to University of Pennsylvania The Wharton School

  1. Complete the application form with background information and other required documents.
  2. Pay the application fee.
  3. Wait for an interview invitation.
  4. Check for the admissions decision posted in the school’s online system.

What Is a Data Science MBA Degree?

An MBA Degree in Data Science is a graduate degree that covers the use of quantitative methods to analyze data and make business decisions. It’s typically a two-year program. A degree in data science at this level is different from a bachelor’s or master’s degree in data science. It provides a more in-depth look at using data science to improve organizations.

How Important Is an MBA Degree in Data Science?

It is important to get an MBA Degree in Data Science because it opens up many opportunities for someone’s career and allows them to specialize in a significantly growing field. The rising need for data science will result in high demand for highly qualified professionals. With data science becoming a critical part of businesses, an MBA will give someone an edge in the job market.

What Types of MBA Degrees Can You Get in Data Science?

You can get the following types of MBA Degrees in Data Science:

  • Conventional Masters of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Executive MBA
  • Global MBA

While all of these MBA degrees commonly deal with business strategies and project management, they still differ when it comes to teaching approach. A conventional MBA student has a more immersive learning experience than an Executive MBA student. So for professionals with busy schedules, an executive MBA is a more viable option since it won’t demand too much time for immersion.

On the other hand, a Global MBA incorporates an international perspective, as students enhance their analytical skills in operations management in a business environment.

Is It Better to Get a Master’s Degree or an MBA in Data Science?

It’s better to get an MBA Degree in Data Science if you want to elevate your career in leadership and management roles. MBA degree programs in data science offer a business or management focus, which could benefit students interested in working in a data-related field while developing their management skills.

A Master’s Degree in Data Science is the better route if you want to be a highly regarded expert in the data science field. It can also be a good option if you want to build a career in academia.

What Is the Difference Between a Data Science MBA Degree and a Data Science Certificate?

The difference between a data science MBA degree and a data science graduate certificate is the program’s comprehensiveness. An MBA in Data Science degree is a more comprehensive program that typically takes two years to complete. This degree covers all aspects of data science, while a data science graduate certificate focuses on a specific part of data science.

In comparison, a data science graduate certificate is a shorter program. It’s more focused on certain topics, such as data mining or machine learning. It typically takes one year to complete.

How Much Does It Cost to Get an MBA Degree in Data Science?

The data science MBA degree cost is approximately $12,171 , according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This tuition rate may increase or decrease depending on the type of institution you’ll enroll in, whether public or private and for-profit or non-profit. You’ll also have to prepare for other expenses.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Science MBA Degree?

It usually takes two years to get an MBA Degree in Data Science. To get this degree, a student needs to complete 60 credits of coursework. They would need to take 15 credits per semester or 30 credits per year.

Some programs may be completed in as little as 12 months, while others may take up to four years, depending on the learning pace. Many schools offer part-time or online programs, which can extend the amount of time it takes to complete the degree.

How Hard Is It to Get an MBA Degree in Data Science?

Getting a data science MBA degree can be hard because it’s a new and emerging field. There are not as many programs available, and it can be challenging to find well-experienced experts to learn from outside the course. It’s also critical that a reputable organization accredits the program. Like any other MBA program, a data science MBA requires a lot of coursework.

Why Should You Get a Data Science MBA Degree?

You should get a data science MBA degree because it will provide you with the knowledge and hard skills needed to pursue a career in data science. Through its courses, you’ll learn how to collect, organize, and analyze data sets and how to use them to solve business problems. Since it’s also a business course, you can also enhance the management skills you need to succeed.

Data science is a relatively new field. As such, there are not many jobs that explicitly require an MBA in Data Science. However, the skills and knowledge gained through this program would benefit any job involving data analysis, including marketing, finance, and management positions.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in an MBA Degree Program in Data Science?

MBA Degree in Data Science courses include math, computer science, data science, business, and business intelligence. These are only a few of the courses that will help you complete your MBA college credits. See the list below for detailed information about each course.

Mathematics

MBA graduate students need to take courses in math because it’s the language of business, and it’s typically used to solve business problems. For example, math is fundamental in data science when analyzing data to find patterns and trends. Math is also used to model data to predict future outcomes.

Computer Science

Computer science is a critical course because the modern business world relies heavily on computer systems and networks. To effectively manage a business in the 21st century, it’s essential to understand how these systems work. Additionally, computer science courses can help MBA graduate students develop analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Data Science

Data science is a field of study relevant to businesses of all sizes across industries. Subjects under this course teach students to analyze and interpret data for better-informed decisions. Additionally, data science courses help students develop the technical skills and competence necessary for working with large datasets.

Business Analysis

Business analysis helps MBA graduate students understand the fundamental concepts of business administration. Here, students can also learn how to use analysis effectively when dealing with business complexities. They’ll further know how to provide innovative solutions based on their business analysis.

Business Intelligence

This course will teach MBA graduate students how to gather and analyze datasets efficiently and use them to improve business performance. Apart from data processing and analysis, business intelligence also covers big data, another emerging field of study. Business intelligence involves business forecasting based on large sets of data.

Continuing Education Paths for Data Science MBA Degree Graduates

The best path to take with a data science MBA degree is a doctorate degree in data science. You can also seek licensing routes like becoming a certified data scientist. A dual degree program may also be an option for those who wish to continue their education in another data science-related or business specialization.

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What to Look For in the Best Data Science MBA Degree Programs

The things to look for in the best MBA data science degrees are cost, flexibility or format, the school’s reputation, faculty credentials, and the employment outcomes. Below we discuss in detail the factors you need to look for while selecting an MBA Degree in Data Science.

Cost

The cost of an MBA degree is essential to consider because it helps determine the amount of money you need to save for your education. Also, the cost of an MBA Degree in Data Science can vary significantly from school to school, as well as the number of college credits and program length. As such, it’s important to compare the cost of different programs before making a decision.

Flexibility or Format

There are programs that provide schedule flexibility and various learning formats that can meet your needs and preferences. For example, an online format may be best if you’re also working while taking your data science MBA degree. If you learn better through structured learning with dedicated schedules, then the traditional route is a good option for you.

The Reputation of the School

A school’s reputation is important when choosing the best MBA Degree in Data Science because it reflects the quality of its programs. A school with a strong reputation will likely have a well-respected faculty, a robust alumni network, and a good job placement record. These factors can be important when looking for a job after graduation.

Faculty Credentials

The school faculty’s credentials can show the level of expertise that the school has in the field. In addition, the faculty’s level of excellence in research, teaching, and practical applications can help ensure that students gain the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career. You’ll also get a sense of how effective they are in producing quality graduates.

Employment Outcomes

Employment outcomes give you an idea of what jobs you can expect to get after completing the degree. It also shows the career trajectory you’ll have with your MBA in Data Science degree. This information can help you determine if the program is right for you and your career goals.

What Is the Most Affordable Data Science MBA Degree?

The most affordable MBA Degree in Data Science is SNHU’s MBA in Business Analytics. It only costs $700 per credit hour. At 30 credit hours, the full MBA program only costs $21,000.

Salary and Job Outlook for Data Science MBA Degree Graduates

Woman sitting at a desk in front of a computer screen while coding.
An MBA Degree in Data Science can help you develop the business skills you need to succeed in a data-driven world.

There are many employment paths for students who complete an MBA Degree in Data Science. After graduation, many students pursue a career in data analytics or management. Other students may choose to become data scientists or business intelligence analysts.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Data Science MBA Degree?

It’s not hard to get a job with an MBA Degree in Data Science. MBA data science programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a data science career. With this master’s program, you can specialize in data mining, machine learning, big data management, and business intelligence.

Some schools also offer career services to help students find jobs after graduation. These services may include internship opportunities, job placement assistance, and business industry partnerships.

What’s the Average Data Science MBA Degree Salary?

The average salary for someone with an MBA Degree in Data Science is $100,082 per year , according to PayScale. However, this number can vary greatly depending on experience, skillset, and specialization. For instance, an expert in the field may earn a salary of around $83,000, while someone with less experience may earn around $65,000.

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Data Science MBA Degree?

The types of jobs you can get with a data science MBA degree include data analyst, financial analyst, or management analyst. You can also become a data scientist or business intelligence analyst. Below, we share in detail some of the best data science master’s degree jobs, their salaries, roles, and outlook.

Data Science MBA Degree Jobs

  • Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Financial Analyst
  • Management Analyst

Potential Careers With an MBA in Data Science Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With an MBA Degree in Data Science?

You can make between $81,000 to $108,000 per year with an MBA Degree in Data Science. How much more money you will get with an MBA Degree in Data Science will depend on how many years of professional experience you have and what courses you have taken in the field. Below are some of the best MBA in Data Science jobs, as well as their salary information and top-paying states.

Highest-Paying Data Science MBA Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Data Science MBA Degree Jobs Average Salary
Data Scientist $108,660
Mathematician and Statistician $96,280
Management Analyst $93,000
Operations Research Analyst $82,360
Financial Analyst $81,410

Best Jobs for Data Science MBA Degree Grads

The best jobs for data science MBA degree grads are data scientist, data architect, mathematicians and statisticians, and data analyst.

1

Data Scientist

Average Salary: $108,660

Data scientists use their expertise in math, statistics, and computer science to analyze data and draw insights from it. They may work for a company to help them make better business decisions to achieve their business goals, or they may work for a research organization to help them understand social or economic trends.

2

Mathematician and Statistician

Average Salary: $96,280

Mathematicians and statisticians use mathematical methods to understand and analyze data. They may work with numbers, graphs, and formulas to solve problems or understand data patterns.

3

Management Analyst

Average Salary: $93,000

Management analysts look into the processes and people within organizations and suggest efficiency initiatives. Their inputs are valuable in applying adjustments to the company's strategic planning and business practices.

4

Operations Research Analyst

Average Salary: $82,360

Operations research analysts help a company understand its customers and operations. They collect, organize, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. They develop reports and recommendations based on that data.

5

Financial Analyst

Average Salary: $81,410

Financial analysts recommend how organizations must spend their money and investments. They also do risk management analysis to assess which investments will yield the highest profits.

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Is an MBA Degree in Data Science Worth It?

Yes, an MBA Degree in Data Science is worth it. Data science is one of the most in-demand skills in the job market today, and it’s expected to continue to be in high demand in years to come. It’s also a well-compensated career with high-paying job opportunities for midcareer professionals and those seeking higher management roles.

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Data Science MBA Degree FAQ

Is an MBA good for data science?

Yes, an MBA is good for data science as it can provide you with a strong business foundation and help you develop essential soft skills , such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. Most of these degrees will also allow you to do projects that are focused on real-world problems.

These skills can be beneficial in a data science career, where you may need to work with business stakeholders to understand them and translate complex data into actionable insights. This degree alos gives you a competitive advantage over others who may be pursuing the same job vacancy as you.



What can I do with an MBA Degree in Data Science?

With an MBA in Data Science, you can build a career as a data analyst, business intelligence expert, or data scientist. You can use your knowledge in collecting and analyzing data to help any organization make better business decisions.

Additionally, this degree can help prepare you to work in data-driven fields, such as marketing and finance since these industries have a high demand for professionals with business skills. You will also have many networking opportunities while attending this degree, which can help you in finding a job in the future.

Who can do an MBA in Data Science?

Accepted students who pass the eligibility and admission requirements of their preferred business school can do an MBA in Data Science. Typically, they are bachelor’s degree or master’s degree graduates who are excellent in mathematics, statistics, or computer science. Those who have professional experience also have a good chance of getting into a data science MBA program.

Can I become a data scientist after my MBA?

Yes, after an MBA, you can become a data scientist with the right data scientist skills and experience. Many data scientists have math, statistics, computer science, and engineering backgrounds as their career foundations. However, adding business skills through an MBA degree can also be a helpful credential for a data scientist role.

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.

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Joana Ferreira

About the author: Joana is an expert content writer and world traveler. Experienced in content optimization and other tech topics, she contributes to the Career Karma blog's informative technical content. Joana has a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism.

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