The work of a data analyst demands a diverse range of technical skills with a high level of attention to detail. Most companies looking for data analysts want candidates to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics. This article covers the best data analytics bachelor’s degree programs, as well as details about the universities that provide them.
Data analytics bachelor’s degrees are a great first step towards a lucrative career track. Pursuing one of the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics can open up a wide range of job opportunities. In addition to information about online and in-person data analytics bachelor’s degree programs, this article covers the best data analytics bachelor’s degree jobs.
What Is Data Analytics?
Data analytics is the science of analyzing raw computational information and drawing educated conclusions about it. Data analytics helps individuals and companies understand data of all sizes. Data analysts typically analyze raw data to identify specific trends and patterns.
To help organizations make effective decisions, analysts use various techniques, analytic software, and tools. Those who want to work in a data analysis role need to be experts in data analytics software, statistical methods of data analysis, and working with database management programs.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics?
You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics at a four-year university or college. You can choose to pursue this degree in person, online, or through a hybrid program. Some of the best colleges where you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics are listed below.
What Schools Offer the Best Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Drexel University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Purdue University
- Syracuse University
- Arizona State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics always include a high diploma or a GED. Most schools’ requirements also include an online application, an application fee, and standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT. The requirements for a data analytics bachelor’s degree will vary depending on the school you’re applying to.
Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of an online application or the Common Application
- SAT or ACT scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Official high school transcripts
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics
To get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics, you must complete all of the course requirements and an average of 120 credits. The credit requirements for data analytics bachelor’s degree programs are made up of core courses, general education courses, elective courses, and a capstone or final project.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics?
You need between 120 and 130 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics. These credits will be made up of courses that cover mathematics, analysis, statistics, and business administration. There are also usually elective credits and a senior seminar or project to be completed.
Data Analytics Degree Requirements
- 45 credits of required core courses
- 15 credits of mathematics courses
- 15 credits of computer science courses
- 15 credits of elective courses
- 30 credits of upper division courses
- 4 credits of a capstone project
Best Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
School | Program | Accreditation |
---|---|---|
Bethel University | Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Data Science | Higher Learning Commission |
Bryant University | Bachelor of Science in Data Science | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business |
California University of Pennsylvania | Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
College of Charleston | Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Data Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Colorado State University | Major in Data Science, Statistics Concentration | Higher Learning Commission |
Drexel University | Bachelor in Data Science and Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Kansas State University | Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics and Data Science | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
Lebanon Valley College | Bachelor in Computer & Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Marist College | Bachelor in Data Science and Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Purdue University | Bachelor of Science in Data Science | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
Best Schools for Data Analytics: Top Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
If you are hoping to become a data analyst, there is a broad variety of schools offering strong programs in data analytics that will prepare you for your future career. These bachelor’s programs focus on algorithms, mathematics, and mastering essential analytics tools. Check out the list below for more details on the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics.
Best Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
School | Program | Accreditation |
---|---|---|
Arizona State University | Online Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Colorado State University Global | Online Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
DeVry University | Online Bachelor’s Degree Specialization in Big Data and Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Rasmussen University | Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree | Higher Learning Commission |
Regent University | Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Southern New Hampshire University | Online Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Data Analytics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Syracuse University | Bachelor of Professional Studies in Applied Data and Predictive Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
University at Albany SUNY | Bachelor of Science in Informatics, Data Analytics Concentration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Utica College | Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Data Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Washington State University | Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Colleges for Data Analytics: Top Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
For some students, studying on-campus isn’t an option. For those who prefer the convenience and price of online courses, check out our list of the best online Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics.
What Is a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
A data analytics bachelor’s degree is a four-year program that teaches the skills necessary for a data analysis role. In this undergraduate degree, students study discrete mathematics and analytical tools while completing analytical competency and statistics courses. Students will also gain soft skills in communication and collaboration by completing group projects during their degree.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics is very important because it is an entry-level requirement for most data-related jobs. A data analytics bachelor’s degree will provide you with a solid foundation of core concepts in data analysis. Undergraduate degree programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to enter the workforce.
However, it is possible to get a data analysis job without a bachelor’s degree. Companies are most interested in your skills and abilities, which can be learned through traditional Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics or non-traditional education pathways like coding bootcamps.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Data Analytics?
There are at least four types of Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics. You can get a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Professional Studies, or Bachelor of Business Administration in Data Analytics. The type of Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics offered will depend on the school you attend. A Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics is the most common type of degree.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics, however, there is not a huge difference between the two types of degrees. The core curriculum for both types of programs will be the same, and focus on analysis and data-based decision making. The main difference is that the electives will either be focused on science or liberal arts.
What Is the Difference Between a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree and a Data Analytics Certificate?
The difference between a data analytics bachelor’s degree and a data analytics certificate is that a four-year bachelor’s program teaches all of the core data analytic concepts in addition to courses in other areas. Alternatively, a data analytics certificate is a short program provided by a school, usually for professional development. Whether you pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics or a data analytics certificate will depend on where you are in your career.
If you’re a working professional looking to upskill or change careers, a data analytics certificate program is an efficient way to learn new data analytics concepts. If you are a recent high school graduate or someone will no experience in data analytics who can commit four years to a degree program, opt for a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics?
It costs an average of $16,647 per year to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Some schools may charge a high tuition cost, but they also provide financial aid. Scholarships and aid can cover as much as $30,000 a year in financial aid at some universities.
Institutions may also offer other payment methods, such as split tuition payments. This means that you pay divided tuition over a given period, allowing you to comfortably pay several fees every month or year.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get a data analytics bachelor’s degree. Most first-time undergraduate students complete their degree over eight semesters while taking 15 credits of courses. The Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics length may be shorter if you choose to pursue an accelerated bachelor’s degree program or longer if you attend a school with a co-op program.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics?
It is hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics because you have to commit four years of learning new concepts in statistics, programming, and analysis. However, if you’re interested in computer science, math, and programming, you will have an easier time in this degree program.
Why Should You Get a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get a data analytics bachelor’s degree because it equips you with the fundamental skills you will need for a career in data science, data analytics, or business administration. Not only is a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics a prerequisite for many relevant positions, it also provides the foundation you need to succeed in one of those positions.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Data Analytics?
Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics courses cover topics in programming, analysis, business, and statistics. The Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics course list below is based on the online data analytics bachelor’s degree completion program at Rasmussen University.
Introduction to Business Intelligence
This course teaches students the basics of making data-driven decisions for businesses. Students will analyze data and begin to understand how it can be used for business planning and decision-making.
Programming Languages
The programming languages covered in this course are C++ and SQL. Students will learn how to use code for data analysis.
Advanced Analytics, Platforms Environments, and Software
In this course, students will use large data sets and find out how to create and position Extract Transform Load (ETL) jobs. They will then learn how to configure the ETL environment to perform data analysis.
Data Visualization Implementation and Communication
This course also focuses on using data to make business decisions, but at a more advanced level. Students will work with quantitative and qualitative data and obtain insights from it.
Data Analytics Capstone
Most of the Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics programs on this list require a capstone project to be completed before graduation. It is usually a group project, wherein students work together to solve real-world business problems using data analysis.
Continuing Education Paths for Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
A continuing education path for someone with a data analytics bachelor’s degree is to study for a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics. Graduates with a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics can also choose to pursue certificates and certifications that align with their goals for career advancement or qualify them to work in other more specialized or technical fields.
Related Data Analytics Degrees
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What to Look for in the Best Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Accreditation, cost, and the school’s reputation are all things to look for in the best data analytics bachelor’s degree programs. However, there are a number of other factors to consider before choosing a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics program, some of which are listed below.
Accreditation
Accreditation is important. You should not attend a university or program if the school is not accredited. Accreditation is a confirmation that the school has been reviewed by a third party and the quality of education has been vetted and approved.
Cost
Getting a bachelor’s degree can be expensive. Consider attending a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics program offered by a school in your district or state. Most schools offer tuition discounts and scholarships for in-state students.
School Reputation
For a technical program like a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics, the reputation of the school is something to consider. Although you can get a high-quality education at any college or university, some employers might prefer to see a recognizable name on your resume.
Accelerated Options
Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs allow you to complete your degree in less than four years. Not every school offers these programs, but if you are a dedicated student willing to take additional courses each semester or study in the summer, you may want to consider an accelerated program.
Course Offerings
Make sure that the school you’re attending offers the courses you’re interested in taking or need for the career you’re interested in. If you would prefer to study for a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree, make sure the electives you want to take are offered by your school of choice.
What Is the Most Affordable Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable data analytics bachelor’s degree is the online Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Data Analytics offered by Southern New Hampshire University. It costs $320 per credit for all students and this price has been frozen since 2012.
Salary and Job Outlook for Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
There are many data analytics bachelor’s degree jobs available, as this degree is the most common prerequisite for jobs in data science and business administration. Although your Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics salary will not be as high as those with more experience or advanced degrees, it is still a field with decent starting salaries.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a data analytics bachelor’s degree as long as you have the necessary technical skills required to perform that job. If your degree program did not teach you all of the skills necessary for your dream job, consider taking additional data analytics courses to strengthen your skillset.
What’s the Average Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for data analysts is $82,3600. However, a data analyst’s salary range is heavily influenced by their level of experience, skillset, and location.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
You can get entry or mid-level data-related jobs with a data analytics bachelor’s degree. A Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics will prepare you for a career as a business intelligence analyst, data modeler, data scientist, quantitative analyst, and data analyst.
Data Analytics Degree Jobs
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Quantitative Analyst
- Data Modeler
- Data Analyst
Potential Careers With a Data Analytics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics?
You can make between $62,000 and $93,000 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics based on the jobs in the table below. However, your salary range will depend on your skillset, job title, and years of experience.
Highest-Paying Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
---|---|
Business Intelligence Analyst | $93,000 |
Data Scientist | $87,812 |
Quantitative Analyst | $86,628 |
Data Modeler | $83,185 |
Data Analyst | $62,838 |
Best Jobs for Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for data analytics bachelor’s degree grads are positions that use skills in analysis, communication, and business decision making. The more time you spend in the industry, the more options you will have for your data analytics career.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Data Analytics Bootcamp vs Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A data analytics bachelor’s degree is better as it is an established credential for many careers today. However, data analytics bootcamps are rising in prominence and employers are beginning to qualify graduates of these programs for the same jobs available to degree holders.
Data analytics bootcamps and bachelor’s degrees have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it can be confusing to determine which is best. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option before choosing which is appropriate for you.
Benefits of a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree
- High demand: A data analytics degree will put you in a position to make the most of the available job opportunities in the data analysis field. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics, recruiters may even approach you directly if they’re interested in you.
- Career support: Data analytics majors and graduates can benefit from faculty advisors who can help set and achieve worthwhile objectives. You can find internships and careers through personal counseling, networking events, on-campus recruiting, and job fairs at your school’s career center.
- Graduate opportunities: Obtaining a data analytics bachelor’s degree from a college or university can lead to a master’s or doctoral program that will expand your resources and improve your career prospects. There are many schools offering Master’s Degrees in Applied Mathematics that focus on data analysis.
- Versatility: The demand for data analysis skills is growing across many sectors, from management to medicine to marketing. If you major in data analytics, you’ll be well-versed in the analytical skills companies need regardless of what career path you choose. Comprehensive knowledge of statistics, mathematics, computer science, and software will enable you to adjust to a wide array of job roles.
Benefits of a Data Analytics Bootcamp
- Program length: Bootcamps allow you to specialize and become an entry-level data analyst much faster than a traditional college degree. You’ll be able to pass a job interview for an entry-level position successfully within three to six months.
- Cost: Data analytics bootcamps are relatively inexpensive compared to full-time tuition at most US colleges. Bootcamps also offer flexible payment methods that might include income share agreements, deferred payments, and scholarships.
- Learning methods: At a data analytics bootcamp, you’ll learn from respected industry experts. Bootcamps employ experienced professionals to teach students the basics of data analytics and coding while providing extensive training and hands-on experience. As a result, students gain practical knowledge and experience from the programs.
- Career opportunities: There are a lot of jobs for data analytics bootcamp graduates as employers who are desperate for data talent are snapping them up not long after they graduate. Bootcamps also often provide career services to help graduates find jobs in data analysis or software development quickly.
Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics is worth it if you are interested in pursuing a career in tech. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that most entry-level jobs for data analysts require a bachelor’s degree. However, developing your data analysis skills and gaining a job is possible even without a college degree.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Analytics give graduates career opportunities to find roles as operations research analysts and data analysts. An accredited degree exposes you to a structured method of gaining skills and networking with professionals, so think about which option suits your needs best before deciding between a bootcamp or a bachelor’s degree.
Additional Reading About Data Analytics
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Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Yes, you can be a data analyst without a bachelor’s degree if you have built a strong skillset and have real-world experience in the field. However, it’s important to note that you may find more job opportunities if you have a degree.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Business Analytics, and Data Analytics are the best degrees for a data analyst. A strong math and analytical background is needed to be successful in the profession, especially if you wish to progress in your career. If you wish to specialize further, you can also gain a graduate degree.
Yes, it is possible to start a career as a data analyst without professional experience. With an online degree in data analysis, you can land entry-level analytics positions. An online bootcamp or course for data analysis would strengthen your knowledge of the subject and allow you to build and practice practical projects to enhance your skills.
No, advanced coding skills are not a requirement for data analysts. Data analysts are required to possess high-quality mathematics skills, as is the case for most data science careers. However, it’s also standard for data analysts to feel comfortable with programming, statistics, and mathematics. Data analysis requires analytical reasoning and attention to detail.
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