In the business world today, the “how” and “why” of data analysis is everywhere.
Whether scrolling online or signing into LinkedIn, you will notice pop-ups for multi-degrees in the field of analytics. There are offerings from a wide range of universities.
Your intention may be to gear up for an advanced degree in analytics or weigh its growth in popularity. Either way, it makes sense to see what the buzz is all about.
A master’s in data analytics is still relatively new in higher ed. The field is cutting-edge for good reason.
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Featured Data Analytics Masters
School Name | Program | More Info |
---|---|---|
Johns Hopkins University | Master of Science in Data Analytics and Policy | Visit Site |
George Mason University | Master of Science in Data Analytics Engineering | Visit Site |
University of Virginia | Online MS in Data Science | Visit Site |
Ohio University | Online Master of Business Analytics | Visit Site |
Northern Illinois University | Online MS in Data Analytics | Visit Site |
Georgetown University | Online MS in Business Analytics | Visit Site |
Michael Shulman, head of machine learning at Kensho explains, “Since most of the world’s data is unstructured, an ability to analyze and act on it presents a big opportunity.”
Data Analytics on the Rise
In the past two decades, analysis has become a buzzword. This is not just widespread in corporate America but around the world as well.
You don’t have to look far in your job search to find a company that is seeking a professional who is skilled in analysis. Most occupations these days call for a deep dive into the root cause of any given problem.
Being analytical is a must-have and spans an array of disciplines. From small to large businesses, all see the benefit of gaining insight into their data. If you are already thriving in almost any industry, you can expand your repertoire. With some focus, you can build the analytical side of your business savvy.
In this Age of Information, companies have made a concerted effort to improve their capabilities. They are in tune with first capturing and then storing data. Many interpret historical data or advance to real-time.
Business leaders know this is the fast path to improve their decision-making. Think about the words of Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web. He proclaims that “Data is a precious thing and will last longer than the systems themselves.”
Best Online Master’s in Data Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- Program: M.S. in Data Analytics and Policy
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $1,527
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $54,972
DASCA Designation: Yes
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $275
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $9,900
DASCA Designation: Yes
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Applied Analytics
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $2,536
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $91,296
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 1-29
Cost per credit: $625
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $18,750
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $366
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $13,167
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Strategic Analytics
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $976
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $29,280
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Science and Analytics
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $576
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $20,736
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $650
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $23,400
Learn more: Program details - Program: Master of Professional Studies in Analytics
Credits: 45
Cost per credit: $1,116
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $50,220
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $450
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $13,500
Learn more: Program details - Program: Professional Master in Data Analytics
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $444
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $13,332
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Credits: 33
Cost per credit: $1,922
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Required
Total Tuition: $63,426
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $694
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $24,984
DASCA Designation: Yes
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 40
Cost per credit: $910
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $36,400
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Credits: 33
Cost per credit: $1,091
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $36,003
Learn more: Program details - Program: Analytics Master of Science (MSA)
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $374
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Required
Total Tuition: $11,220
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics and Information Management
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $1,095
Delivery Method: Online & hybrid
GRE Required: Optional
Total Tuition: $32,850
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 32
Cost per credit: $670
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $21,440
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics Engineering
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $930
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $27,900
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Applied Security and Analytics
Credits: 34
Cost per credit: $750
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $25,500
Learn more: Program details - Program: Data Analytics Master's Degree
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $673
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $20,194
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 33
Cost per credit: $516 in state | $774 out of state
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $17,028 in state | $25,542 out of state
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Informatics and Analytics
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $438 in state | $1,223 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus & Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $6,412 in state | $20,542 out of state
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $565 in state | $963 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Optional
Total Tuition: $16,950 in state | $28,890 out of state
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Credits: 45
Cost per credit: $560
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Total Tuition: $25,200
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 is a Master’s in Data Analytics?
Before embarking on your journey to selecting the right program and approach, it’s important to define “what is a master’s in analytics?” Analytics on its own is the art and science of taking raw data, i.e., data points, and mining these to extract data gems. The end goal is actionable intel.
A master’s degree in analytics has many arms. It is a blend of Management Information Systems (MIS), Finance and Economics, Computer Science, and Statistics.
For this reason, it attracts students with STEM know-how and strong business acumen. It touches on programming, BI, and data science.
Concentrations will vary. Some students want to learn more about data engineering and modeling. Others may vie for data architecture or computer science. Roles range from the back-end, more technical perspective to the front-end, outward leaning.
Data Analytics Online Master’s Program Format
Professionals may look to hone their skills at different chapters in their lives. Some will be moving directly from college and into an advanced degree program.
Others will have worked for a period and are ready to acquire new skills. With both paths, it’s important to assess the online curriculums that are out there.
At this stage, you may have more questions than answers. You are smart to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. Insight into coursework and projects is a good first step in making a decision.
Advantages to Think About
There are many pluses. Choose that which is most important to you:
- Quality: One of the advantages of online education is its high-quality learning. With the refinement of best practices, the industry has yielded digital learning tools that make learning easier. These better connect students with their professors and classmates.
- Flexibility: Nowadays, the choice is not only whether to choose online or in person. You can also opt for the type of schedule that works best for you. In the online world, there are two formats, asynchronous and synchronous.
- Online communications: With the movement of workers to remote, students aim to sharpen their communication skills. Education through an online platform is a value-add. Professionals need to become practiced in conveying complex concepts in this new work setup.
- High ROI: It’s easy to prove the business case here. The correlation between a master’s level degree and higher pay is strong. Advancement from a bachelor’s to a master’s is studied to be as high as 20 percent.
Some Disadvantages
An online master’s program calls for dedicated time and a real commitment. Consider the minuses before you move forward:
- Style and format: Despite the growth in all things online, it’s not for everyone. It can be challenging to adapt to the remote style of learning.
- Absence of face-to-face contact: You may miss the subtle nuances and engagement that takes place in a classroom. It can be hard to thrive in an environment where you can’t see the facial expressions of your peers and professors.
- Lack of discipline: Some may perceive an online program as too flexible. There can be distractions from home and family life that thwart concentration. It can be difficult to focus on the subject material.
Online Data Analytics Courses Overview
The programs that are offered will vary by institution. You will often see a master’s in data or business analytics. A master’s in science in analytics is also commonplace. Regardless of the name, the crux is that is stands as an interdisciplinary degree.
The types of courses may also differ. A graduate program of this kind is made up of multi-focuses. These range from business and computation to operations research and statistics.
Depending on your interests, you may lean towards a program that is business-oriented or more tech-based. You can even choose from accounting, healthcare, supply chain, and social media.
There are an array of core subjects and electives. It is up to you to select the concentration. You pick out in which area you desire a high-level understanding or a narrower focus. As you assess things like value and ranking help navigate.
Choose from a wide range of topics like these:
- Intelligence methods
- Data mining
- Modeling
- Problem-solving
- Machine learning
- Forecasting
- Business ops
- Programming of computer languages
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
Tools and programming languages may change with the times. At present, Python, R, SQL, and Tableau are commonly studied.
Key Points in Admissions
Most online master’s programs in the field of data analysis are rigorous. Some institutions require a BA/BS in a STEM-related field. Others ask for hands-on experience (work) in the field.
A computer programming certification can also serve as a supplement. The magic formula is a background in math and/or IT.
It’s important to point out that a standardized test is not needed. There is no requirement for a GRE or GMAT. Students applying from outside of the US may need to provide additional items.
Most admissions offices will request a resume/CV and an SOP (statement of purpose) as well. These are essential and should be presented as well-edited and polished.
Graduation Requirements
The checklist for fulfilling a masters will also diverge. For many, a master’s thesis or research is needed. Some require what’s referred to as a “capstone project.”
There are distinctions in terms of credit or class requirements. At a minimum are 11 courses. Others call for 30 to 36 credits. Depending on whether a part or full-time program, classes average no more than three to four during a semester.
Completion ranges vary, from 12 to 16 months to 23 months. The good news is that there is an abundance of programs or different types and specs that can meet a wide range of needs and goals.
Online Degree and Career Prep
There is much to consider when choosing to advance your career path by earning a degree in a highly sought-after field. Laid out below are three reasons why an online degree is the 100 percent smart route to level up your future:
- Save a significant amount of money. No travel or room and board costs. Most online master’s programs have standard tuition rates. This reduces costs for out-of-state.
- Save time and energy. No need to waste time in the car and rush to your class. With your laptop in hand, classes can take place anytime, anywhere.
- Save on stress. No more worries about fitting in classroom time and homework. Make the most of the autonomy and flexibility.
The biggest benefit of an online master’s program is that working professionals can kill two birds with one stone. You can level up your education in a convenient and economical way and at the same time, up-skill your resume.
As you well know, experiential learning goes hand and hand with the traditional style. The relationships that you forge through the years will propel your career forward. The building of a robust professional network is part of the journey to earning your dream job.
Lucky for you, there are a number of opportunities that have been introduced in recent years.
The New Networking
- Career services: This department’s single focus is to connect students with people and resources. They can advise on jobs and internships in the area. Take advantage of these resources to put you in touch with alumni that are hiring.
- Professors: This important group should be your first to ask when it comes to plotting a career path, writing recommendation letters, or offering advice.
- Social media and virtual networking events: Keep your profiles updated, and be on the lookout for events in your field. Commit to putting business dates on your calendar. Start building relationships through your peer group.
Tuition Costs
It’s important to think about which type of analytics master’s program is best for you. This will impact the credits required, the length of time to complete, and the overall cost. There are many from which to choose.
For example, GA Tech’s top 10-ranked program for its master’s degree in analytics calls for a tuition rate of $9,900. At Southern New Hampshire University, a master of business administration (MBA) in business analytics will put you at $19,000 in total tuition.
There are other kinds of programs as well. LSU touts an (MBA) in data analytics. The total is $14,370.
How to Pay
As mentioned previously, the ROI is proven. That said, you still need to figure out the best and most cost-effective way to pay the tuition fees. Make sure to consider every option before you rack up debt with student loans. For starters, review these options:
Outlook on Salary
Now that you have calculated the return, you should start looking at some real numbers. It’s important and exciting to look at how your hard-earned work can pay off in dollar amounts. It’s easy to find job sites that show the high demand for professionals with advanced know-how in data analysis.
Salary levels are no secret. The most widely used career resources offer stats on wages. You can check out your earning potential. According to Payscale, the average salary with a master’s in business analytics is $77,000. BLS cites earnings of up to $85,720.
Elite schools show even higher numbers, i.e., $103,000 or a 22 percent lift from the previous salary. You can begin to assess how these average rates compare to your current pay.
The Final Analysis and Next Steps
It is key to learn as much as you can about what a master’s in analytics means and where it will take you. You have done your homework. The specs and requirements of every program will differ greatly.
You are now in tune with the wide range of formats and styles of learning in the realm of online education. It is an exciting time to be a student.
There are multi-ways to create an education plan that meets your career, expense, and long-term goals. Keep in mind the insight of Keith Bachman, Wall Street analyst at BMO Capital.
He shared that “In times where small instructor-led classrooms tend to be the exception, electronic learning solutions can offer more collaboration and interaction with experts and peers, as well as a higher success rate than the live alternative.”
Whichever route you take, move forward. Plot out your next steps and follow them to the “t”.
Frequently Asked Questions
An online master’s in data analytics is a graduate-level program that teaches students how to analyze and interpret complex data. This program is delivered entirely online, offering flexibility for working professionals.
This program is ideal for individuals with a background in statistics, computer science, or business who wish to advance their skills in data analysis and interpretation.
Most programs require a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related field, along with foundational knowledge in statistics and computer programming.
Typically, these programs can be completed in 1-2 years, depending on whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time.
Coursework often includes data mining, statistical methods, machine learning, data visualization, and ethical considerations in data analytics.
Many institutions offer financial aid options, including loans, scholarships, and grants, for eligible students.
Programs may include case studies, capstone projects, or internships that provide practical, real-world experience in data analytics.
Online Data Analytics Master’s School Listings
- Program: M.S. in Analytics
Cost per credit: 1922
Credits: 33
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Strategic Analytics
Cost per credit: 976
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 910
Credits: 40
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Cost per credit: 715
Credits: 48
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Applied Analytics
Cost per credit: 2536
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 625
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: Analytics Master of Science (MSA)
Cost per credit: 374
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics and Information Management
Cost per credit: 1095
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online & hybrid
GRE Required: Optional
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 670
Credits: 32
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics Engineering
Cost per credit: 930
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Cost per credit: 275
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Cost per credit: 650
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics and Policy
Cost per credit: 1527
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: Data Analytics Master's Degree
Cost per credit: 673.13
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Cost per credit: 862
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Science and Analytics
Cost per credit: 576
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: Professional Master in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 444.4
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: Master of Professional Studies in Analytics
Cost per credit: 1116
Credits: 45
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 560
Credits: 45
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: Master of Professional Studies in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 1056
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: $1171 in state | $1915 out of state
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus, online & hybrid
GRE Required: Required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Analytics
Cost per credit: 1091
Credits: 33
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Big Data Analytics
Cost per credit: $598 in state | $994 out of state
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: $516 in state | $774 out of state
Credits: 33
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 637
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: $565 in state | $963 out of state
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Optional
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Applied Security and Analytics
Cost per credit: 750
Credits: 34
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 365.75
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 694
Credits: 36
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Informatics and Analytics
Cost per credit: $438 in state | $1,223 out of state
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 450
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus & online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Business Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 965
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details - Program: M.S. in Data Analytics
Cost per credit: 534
Credits: 33
Delivery Method: Online
GRE Required: Not required
Learn more: Program details