The realm of data science is one that onlookers regard with curiosity and respect. There are a lot of unknowns in this area of study that only recently became hugely relevant.
A few decades ago, the job of data scientists was non-existent or very rare. With the lack of exposure, many, like you, may not know if a career in data science is the right one to pursue.
It is important to get the facts on how expertise in data science is transforming the world. Below are some highlights of what a bachelor’s degree means in today’s market and the future.
What is a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science?
A bachelor’s degree in data science comes in two forms, i.e., a BA or a BS. It is an interdisciplinary field, and both the science and arts tracks are chock full of STEM elements. These include computer science, databases, ethics, mathematics, and statistics.
There are general differences between a Bachelor of arts versus a bachelor of science in data science. For a BA, the emphasis is on the humanities. For a BS, math and science are the focus.
There are many areas to which a BA or BS in data science can be applied. These range from business and health to social science, the climate, and oceanography.
Best Online Bachelor’s in Data Science Degree Programs for 2024
Ottawa University
Ottawa, Kansas
Program: BS in Data Science and Technology
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $1,063
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $127,560
DASCA Designation: No
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CaliforniaProgram: BS in Information Technology, Data Science (MyPath)
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $267
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $32,000
DASCA Designation: No
Learn more: Program detailsSalem University
Salem, West VirginiaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — Data Science
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $425 in state | $550 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus & online
Total Tuition: $66,000
DASCA Designation: No
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, MissouriProgram: BS-MS: Data Science
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $373 in state | $973 out of state
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $116,760
DASCA Designation: No
Learn more: Program detailsIndiana University Southeast
New Albany, IndianaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science (Online)
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $250 in state | $712 out of state
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $85,440
DASCA Designation: Yes
Learn more: Program detailsIndiana University
Bloomington, IndianaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $290 in state | $390 out of state
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $46,800
DASCA Designation: Yes
Learn more: Program detailsMaryville University
Saint Louis, MissouriProgram: Bachelor’s in Data Science
Credits: 128
Cost per credit: $781 Campus | $525 Online
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $99,968
DASCA Designation: No
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin-Platteville
Platteville, WisconsinProgram: Data Science Major, B.S.
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $377
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $22,644
DASCA Designation: No
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North DakotaProgram: Data Science Degree Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Credits: 124
Cost per credit: $428 in state | $642 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus & online
Total Tuition: $79,608
DASCA Designation: No
Learn more: Program detailsArizona State University
Tempe, ArizonaProgram: Online Bachelor of Science in Data Science
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $653
Delivery Method: Online
Total Tuition: $78,360
DASCA Designation: Yes
Learn more: Program details
These rankings were compiled from data accessed in December 2023 from Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Navigator (both services National Center for Education Statistics). Tuition data was pulled from individual university websites and is current as of December 2023. If available, we also use additional criteria such as accreditation or designations by outside organizations or agencies.
What Can I Do With a Data Science Degree?
To get a glimpse into the power of data science on a global scale, you only need to see what is trending in Fortune 100 companies these days.
According to TechRepublic, Facebook employs 1,200+ data workers. The headcount for Microsoft and Amazon is close to that. IBM employs the highest at 2,500.
There is a multitude of opportunities and these are ever-changing. With a degree in data science, you can write your ticket. Here is just a sample of the occupations that are out there.
- Data scientists, engineers, and architects
- Database administrators
- Machine learning experts
- Big data engineers
- Artificial intelligence specialists
The Growth of Data Science
A bit of history here. Data science was born in the 1960s, although it did not become popularized until the 2000s. When applications like AI and ML came to market, the need for this type of knowledge grew. A decade or so later, data science now falls among the top 10 best majors.
To show the progression of this discipline, look at how two generations perceive(d) data science on college campuses. Generation Z views this STEM-centric field as a highly sought-after career. Students are in hot pursuit of it and for the right reasons. According to a Glassdoor survey, data science ranks very high in terms of job satisfaction.
In contrast, when Generation X-ers, these now 40 and 50-year-olds, were choosing college majors, computer science was the only option. Back then, this faction of science was new, and enrollment in it was minimal.
Today the occupation of data scientist stands as the single fastest-growing job and it was predicted that there will be 11.5 million new jobs in the field by 2026.
Online Data Science Degree Programs
Many online programs are broadcast to students these days. This is due in part to the cultural shift to all things remote. The other factor is the growing desire for flexibility.
A bachelor’s degree in data science is one of the highest-trending. The public and private sectors place a great deal of focus on the study. The reason is that they see the need.
Know-how in data science is deemed critical in making its mark on a) the business world and b) community outreach. There remain high hopes for how emerging tech and the data scientists behind it can advance in multiple areas. Think of the impact on medicine, government, infrastructure, and much more.
There is a concerted effort to get the best and brightest to gain expertise in the subject matter that calls for exactly that. As a result of this need, STEM education has become an initiative on a grand scale. You can see its importance reflected in the goals of the US Department of Education. STEM is front and center.
Business leaders and the government are putting an exorbitant amount of money into those who tout the STEM mind. In 2021, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced its pledge of $34.5 million for data science and computation tools. That same year, US corporations made investments to the tune of $350 billion towards largely STEM programs in education.
If data science is your niche, the financial support and convenience of an online format may make it hard to pass up.
Online Degrees and Hands-On Experience
If you are new to an online curriculum, you may have questions. Like, how do you get direct experience in a remote environment? You will be amazed by the learning developments in recent years. Programs like these can help enrich your online experience:
Internships: In a field as cutting-edge as data science, hands-on learning is a must-get. Data science internships, in-person or online, are the surefire way to enjoy the kind of real-world experiences that every student needs. There are pluses to interning from a remote space.
You gain exposure to virtual collaboration platforms and work tools. These are key to finding success in a real-life position in data science. Check out remote data science internships to get a feel for what is offered.
Hands-on projects: This is a key component of any program. In the field of data science, the focus is on the building of know-how in math and statistical theory. It will allow you to put forth the practical application of what you have read about.
A data science degree in an online format can be appealing to students who have a passion for data. Learning in a remote environment should be right up their alley.
That said, online programs differ across the board. Some even have in-person requirements. There is a trend for a hybrid offering. Be sure to check out all of the options that are available.
Application Process for an Online Data Science Degree
The application process for an online data science degree is pretty straightforward. There is nothing out of the ordinary compared to an on-campus program. Other than assuming that you have internet access and a laptop, there is no real difference.
You will need to have completed high school or received a GED. Some universities require a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA and a satisfactory SAT or ACT score. Stats will vary depending on the competitive nature of the program.
Every college or university has an application to fill out which may or may not be part of the Common App. Most call for a letter(s) of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a written essay. Be sure to carefully review the requirements and deadlines.
Courses in an Online Data Science Degree
There is probably no better way to assess if a program is a good fit than to see if the course titles sync with your interests. There are many classes from which to choose. It seems like each year, with emerging technology, universities are adding new ones.
Every program is unique, but below are some to take a peek at:
- Introduction to Programming
- Programming and Problem Solving
- Analysis of Categorical Data
- Data Structures and Programming (R, Python, SAS, Applied Linear Algebra, and/or SQL)
- Algorithm Design and Analysis
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
- Math (Modeling/Linear Algebra/Statistics/Probability)
- Experimental Design
- Machine Learning
- Predictive Modeling
- Big Data Analytics
Acceptance Rates for Online Data Science Degrees
Acceptance rates, to some extent, point to the competitive level of a program. US News & World Report data from a few years ago shows that generally speaking, online schools have higher acceptance rates than in-person programs. There may or not be environmental factors that contribute. Some that show 100 percent acceptance rates, at the same time, rank high in educational value.
Don’t discount the level of education that you are getting with the online format. Many great online schools will set you on the right career path. More important is whether a vocation in data science is right for you. Talk to real-life workers or research to hone in on the behind-the-scenes work.
Advantages and Disadvantages of an Online Degree
If you review any online program in detail, you will quickly see its benefits. This form of education promotes life-long learning, and it gives you real-world skills as well. For these good reasons, remote programming is popular and growing. It is a convenient route to take and offers much flexibility to boot.
Despite the perks, getting a bachelor’s degree in a highly complex field of study is not for everyone. For some, it can be isolating and difficult to time manage. The abundance of freedom and lack of face-to-face contact may prove overwhelming. You have to carefully evaluate if the style of online learning is right for you.
It’s easy to look at the viability of a degree in data science and want to sign up right away. The age-old advice holds.
“Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” – Mark Twain
Choosing the right program may be the hardest task in the vetting process. In this Age of Information, there are many sites to guide you along the way. The cost of an online data science program varies greatly. These range from $28,160 to $88,000, with the average in-state cost at $53,100. Only you can determine if you should seek the most cost-effective route or the best-ranked program.
Start researching the online data science programs that are available, and be sure to take good notes. Map out your end goals, and look closely at the course curriculum. College counselors say to build a spreadsheet weighing the pros and cons of each.
Careers in Data Science
It doesn’t matter where you look. Every source cites the same bottom line. The career outlook for any student of data science is almost guaranteed a positive outcome.
According to Bureau of Labor stats, the median pay of a data scientist is $103,500.
The 2022-2032 job outlook is forecasted at 35 percent which is much higher than average.
To set expectations, it’s key to think about where a data scientist might begin their career path. Everyone has to start at the bottom.
Entry-level positions include titles like “entry-level data scientist” or “junior data scientist.” The average salary is $123,000. With more experience, data scientists are compensated with higher wages. In just a few years, pay reaches a base salary of $124,870. At the management level, the payout is as high as $106,510.
Final Words
The key takeaway is that the study of data science, cultivated through any program, yields one of the most in-demand sets of skills. There is no need to calculate the ROI. You will have zero problems finding a job nor should you have a problem earning a six-figure salary or close to it.
To back your decision, look at how the country is responding. Millions upon millions of dollars are being spent. These are to expose, educate, and reinforce science, technical, engineering, and math skills. Only you can decide if this area of coursework suits you.
If the government and market get their wish, the world will see a lot more “data science” people in the future. It’s up to you if you want to be one of them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Core courses often include Introduction to Programming, Data Structures, Algorithm Design, Machine Learning, and Big Data Analytics, focusing on practical and theoretical aspects of data science
The duration typically ranges from 3 to 4 years for full-time students. Costs vary based on the institution but can range from $28,000 to $88,000
Online and traditional programs cover similar content. However, online programs offer more flexibility, making them ideal for working professionals or those with other commitments
Online programs offer internships and hands-on projects to provide practical experience. This includes learning virtual collaboration platforms and tools essential for data science careers
Courses cover a wide range of topics, such as programming, problem-solving, categorical data analysis, data structures, algorithm design, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics
Online BS in Data Science Program Listings
American Military University
Charles Town, West VirginiaProgram: Online Bachelor of Science in Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $42,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $350
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsArizona State University
Tempe, ArizonaProgram: Online Bachelor of Science in Data Science
DASCA designation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $81,840
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $682
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsBellevue University
Bellevue, NebraskaProgram: Data Science, BS
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $57,023
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $449
Credits: 127
Learn more: Program detailsCity University of Seattle
Seattle, WashingtonProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $94,500
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $525
Credits: 180
Learn more: Program detailsColorado Technical University
Colorado Springs, ColoradoProgram: BS in Computer Science - Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $62,220
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $340
Credits: 183
Learn more: Program detailsDavenport University
Grand Rapids, MichiganProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online, campus & hybrid
Total tuition: $116,880
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $974
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsIndiana University
Bloomington, IndianaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science
DASCA designation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $34,800 in-state | $46,800 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $290 in-state | $390 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsIndiana University Southeast
New Albany, IndianaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $42,840 in-state | $114,840 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $357 in-state | $957 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsMaryville University
St. Louis, MissouriProgram: Bachelor's in Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $69,120
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $540
Credits: 128
Learn more: Program detailsThomas Edison State University
Trenton, New JerseyProgram: BS Degree in Data Science and Analytics
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $51,240 in-state | $66,720 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $427 in-state | $556 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Maine at Augusta
Augusta, MaineProgram: Data Science, BS
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $31,200 in-state | $46,800 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $260 in-state | $390 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MarylandProgram: Bachelor's in data science
DASCA designation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $38,160 in-state | $59,880 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $318 in-state | $499 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CaliforniaProgram: BS in Information Technology, Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $63,960
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $533
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Michigan-Flint
Flint, MichiganProgram: BS in Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $65,160
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $543
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, MissouriProgram: BS-MS: Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $60,840 in-state | $82,920 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $507 in-state | $691 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North DakotaProgram: Data Science, B.S.
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $52,452 in-state | $79,608 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $423 in-state | $642 out-of-state
Credits: 124
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Phoenix
Phoenix, ArizonaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $47,760
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $398
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WisconsinProgram: Bachelor of Science in Data Science
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $28,782 to $38,376
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $234 to $312
Credits: 123
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin-Platteville
Platteville, WisconsinProgram: Data Science Major, B.S.
DASCA designation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $31,500
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $525
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details