A bachelor’s degree can help you land entry-level or mid-level roles in the tech industry. However, if you’re currently working as a data analyst and looking for career advancement, you may need to earn a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics. Attending one of the best data analytics master’s degree programs will increase your employability and salary potential while preparing you for leadership roles.
To apply for a data analytics master’s degree program, you will need to have an undergraduate degree in a technical field. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find out what else you need to begin a master’s program. We will also examine the best Master’s Degree in Data Analytics programs and the jobs you will have access to after graduating.
What Is Data Analytics?
Data analytics is the process of gathering and analyzing raw data to identify trends and make decisions with the information collected. This is done using various technical and mechanical processes, as well as algorithms. The information collected through data analytics has many applications but is commonly used to help businesses make better and more strategic decisions.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
You can get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics at a university or college that offers graduate degrees. The schools where you can get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics include Ivy League schools, state universities, private universities, and technological institutes.
What Schools Offer the Best Data Analytics Master’s Degrees?
- Columbia University
- Drexel University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- North Carolina State University
- University of Chicago
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics are an undergraduate degree in a related field as well as some years of job experience. During the application process, you’ll be asked to submit academic transcripts, your resume, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose or personal essay. You may also be asked to submit GRE or GMAT scores.
Data Analytics Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Academic transcripts
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Professional resume
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics
To get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics you will need to complete all course requirements and complete a major research project or dissertation. Courses will cover topics such as programming, machine learning, big data management, and algorithms.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
You need between 30 and 50 credits for a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics. The credit requirement varies for this degree depending on the school you attend and the depth of its curriculum. These credits are usually made up of academic coursework, a final project, and sometimes an internship or co-op. Most data analytics master’s degree programs do not require a thesis.
Data Analytics Degree Requirements
- 30-50 credits of academic coursework
- Final capstone or practicum
- Internship or co-op
- Maintain a GPA of at least 2.0-3.0
Best Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | Master of Science in Applied Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Data Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Science in Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Northeastern University | Master of Science in Data Analytics Engineering | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Northwestern University | Master of Science in Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of California, Los Angeles | Master of Science in Business Analytics | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| University of Chicago | Master of Science in Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Minnesota – Twin Cities | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Data Analytics: Top Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
Many excellent schools offer graduate degrees in data analytics, but choosing the right data analytics master’s degree can be overwhelming. To help you make the right call and find the program that aligns with your professional goals, check out our list of the top ten programs and their details below.
What Is a Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
A data analytics master’s degree is a program that teaches students the advanced skills and knowledge required to advance in the data analytics field. It prepares students for leadership and specialist roles within this discipline. The students who qualify for this program have a strong background in STEM, data engineering, data science, and computer science.
The program curriculum will help you learn data mining, data visualization, statistical methods, data architecture, predictive analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, ethics, and programming languages. It lasts from one to two years depending on the school and learning format. Part-time and online courses usually last for a longer period.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
A Master’s Degree in Data Analytics is not as important as a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degrees are the most common minimum-education requirement for entry-level tech jobs. However, a data analytics master’s degree is important for those who want to advance to senior-level positions and earn higher salaries.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to become a computer and information research scientist you will need a Master’s Degree in Computer Science or a related subject such as data analytics. These professionals earn an average salary of $131,490.
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Data Analytics?
The most common type of master’s degree you can get in data analytics is a Master of Science. All of the degrees on our list of best data analytics master’s degree programs are this type of degree. However, some schools may offer similar programs as a Master of Business Administration or Master of Professional Studies.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Professional Studies in Data Analytics?
It is better to get a Master of Science in Data Analytics because this program will cover the most important advanced data analysis concepts. A Master of Science is focused on theory and research, which allows students to gain a deeper understanding of and practical experience in data analysis. This type of data analytics degree is also more accessible.
A Master of Professional Studies is designed for those who are currently working in data analysis or hope to soon. This type of data analytics degree focuses on teaching hands-on skills through internships in addition to college courses. Whether you pursue a Master of Science or a Master of Professional Studies will depend on the university you choose and your educational and professional goals.
What Is the Difference Between a Data Analytics Master’s Degree and a Data Analytics Certificate?
The difference between a data analytics master’s degree and a data analytics certificate is the depth of the program. Most graduate certificate programs only require four courses, but students can take these courses in one to three years. Whether you get a master’s degree or certificate in data analytics will depend on your professional and educational background and goals.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of master’s degrees across all types of institutions is $19,314 per year. The average cost of tuition for public institutions is $12,171, while the cost of private institutions is $25,929, including for-profit and nonprofit. Nonprofit private institutions cost $27,776 and for-profit schools have an average tuition of $14,208.
There are financing options available to fund your master’s degree program in the US including scholarships, work-study programs, grants, and student loans. Grants and student loans are offered by federal and state governments as well as private organizations.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
It takes one to two years to get a data analytics master’s degree. Although the Master’s Degree in Data Analytics length will vary based on your school and status as a part-time or full-time student, master’s degrees are generally short programs. Students will often take classes in one or two summer semesters to complete their degree within one year.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
It is fairly hard to get a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics. These degree programs focus on advanced concepts in mathematics, statistics, and algorithms, which may be difficult to master. This is why most schools require students to have completed a certain number of prerequisite courses before applying for a data analytics master’s degree program.
Why Should You Get a Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
You should get a data analytics master’s degree if you want to learn advanced concepts in data analytics in a classroom setting. A Master’s Degree in Data Analytics can also help you earn higher salaries. However, you may be able to achieve the same level of knowledge and income by gaining one or two years of work experience instead of attending a master’s degree program.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Data Analytics?
The courses you need to take in a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics program will cover subjects like machine learning, decision making, and predictive modeling. The data analytics master’s degree courses listed below are based on the program offered by the University of California, Los Angeles.
Machine Learning for Decision Making
Machine learning is a core concept in artificial intelligence. In this course, students will use Python to execute machine learning tools. They will also get an introduction to deep learning and have opportunities for hands-on experiences.
Prescriptive Models and Data Analytics
This is another course on using data analytics for informed decision-making. Students will use their critical thinking skills to design and analyze data models and algorithms. This course focuses on practical skills rather than theory.
SQL and Basic Data Management
In this course, students will use SQL and basic algebra to manage databases. Since this is a master’s degree-level course, students will need to have some previous knowledge of programming languages and be able to write code.
Statistical Foundations for Analytics
This is an introductory course on machine learning and statistics. Some of the concepts covered include logistic models, resampling methods, and regularization.
Capstone Analytics Project
This is a common final requirement for many data analytics programs. At the University of California, Los Angeles, four students form a group and are paired with a corporate partner. They will use the skills they’ve learned in business analytics to solve real-world problems. It is held over one quarter and a research report is submitted for grading.
Continuing Education Paths for Data Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
After graduating with your data analytics master’s degree, you could continue your education and pursue a PhD in Data Science or Analytics. However, there are not many PhD programs for data analytics. The best path to take with a data analytics master’s degree is to get data analytics certifications. These short programs verify your skill level.
Related Data Analytics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
When choosing a data analytics master’s degree program, you should look for a school that offers financial aid to graduate students, the reputation of the school, and the employment outcomes of graduates from the programs. There are also other factors to consider. Read more about what to look for in your data analytics master’s degree program below.
Cost
Graduate tuition is generally more expensive per credit than undergraduate tuition even though graduate programs are shorter. Some schools are more expensive than others and it is usually cheapest to attend school in the state where you have residency. When researching programs, make sure you check the cost of tuition in addition to fees and other expenses like textbooks and technology.
Financial Aid Options
Many schools offer scholarships to graduate students or work-study and assistantship programs. There are also private scholarships available in addition to federal grants available. Some master’s degree students are able to get their education fully funded.
Reputation of the School
The reputation of the school you attend is important for master’s degree programs because it may determine the quality and depth of the education you receive. It will also improve your credibility with potential employers. Luckily, many of the best data analytics master’s degree programs are offered by prestigious institutions like Columbia University and the University of California, Los Angeles.
Graduate Employment Outcomes
Most people attend master’s degree programs to increase their employability and earning potential. Many schools will publish graduate outcomes or success stories from alumni, which can help you determine if their programs are worth it.
Flexibility
Some master’s degree programs only take one year to complete and are on a fixed schedule that only allows students to attend full time. If you need a more flexible schedule, you may want to find a program that allows you to study part-time or take a portion of your courses online.
What Is the Most Affordable Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
The most affordable data analytics master’s degree is the Master of Science in Business Analytics program offered by the University of California, Los Angeles. It takes around one year to complete and costs $17,756 per year for in-state students and $32,858 per year for out-of-state students.
Salary and Job Outlook for Data Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
Data analytics master’s degree jobs are available across a wide range of industries. With a master’s degree and some work experience, you can choose to specialize in machine learning, business analytics, or cyber security. Master’s Degree in Data Analytics salaries tend to be higher than the salaries of people with just a bachelor’s degree.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a data analytics master’s degree. In general, a master’s degree makes you more employable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics master’s degree holders only have a 2.6 unemployment rate. This rate is much lower than the national average.
What’s the Average Data Analytics Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary of a data analyst with a master’s degree is $80,000, according to PayScale. This is a high salary overall and the demand for data analysts means the earning potential is quite high, especially when paired with a master’s degree credential.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
You can get senior-level tech and business jobs with a data analytics master’s degree. There are very few positions that would not be open to a master’s degree holder. Find out more about the types of jobs you can get with a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics below.
Data Analytics Degree Jobs
- Senior Operation Manager
- Application Architect
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Information Security Analyst
- Database Administrator
Potential Careers With a Data Analytics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
You can make between $98,860 and $179,520 with a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics. There are also positions with lower and higher average salaries. How much you earn with a data analytics master’s degree will depend on your previous professional experience, your job title, and the company you work for.
Highest-Paying Data Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Data Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Senior Operations Manager | $179,520 |
| Application Architect | $118,912 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | $112,669 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
Best Jobs for Data Analytics Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics graduate require skills in problem-solving, statistical analysis, and programming. Master’s degrees will allow you to apply for high-level positions. Find out more details about the best jobs for data analytics master’s degree grads below.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics is worth it if you have an undergraduate degree in a technical field and want to break into tech or advance in your career. Having a master’s degree makes it easier to secure a high-paying tech job. This degree will equip you with the advanced skills and expertise in data analytics techniques needed to handle executive roles.
Additional Reading About Data Analytics
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Data Analytics Master’s Degree FAQ
A graduate of a Master’s Program in Data Analytics makes an average of $80,000 per year once they join the labor market, according to PayScale. There is a wide variety of factors that can influence your median salary, however, including your professional experiences, your command of analytics technologies, and even your location.
The best degree for data analytics is a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science, Data Analytics, Business Analytics, or Analytics. It is important to choose a program with core courses that cover analytics algorithms and big data analytics. Look for a course of study that will polish your statistical skills and give you in-depth knowledge of advanced tools in the field.
The top three technical skills for a data analyst are Structured Query Language (SQL), data visualization, and Microsoft Excel. You’ll also need analytical skills as well as problem-solving and interpersonal abilities.
To become a data analyst, you need to get an education through a four-year institution, a community college, or a bootcamp. Next, you need to get real-world experience through internships or apprenticeships and build your portfolio and professional network. Lastly, apply for entry-level roles and work your way up from there.
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.
