Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S IN DATA SCIENCE AND ANALYTICS

By Dr. Winston Ewert and Dr. James Barham

Published: Jun 30, 2021
Updated: Nov 28, 2023

Find top-ranked online bachelor’s in data science and analytics degree programs to prepare students to hold positions as data scientists, business intelligence officers, and usability analysts.

Featured Programs

Key Takeaways

Data science is one of the fastest growing industries, with a predicted job growth rate of 36%.
Analyzing, interpreting, and communicating crucial information, as well as data management, are at the heart of a data science and data analytics program.
While technical skills are a must for data science and analytics professionals, soft skills like attention to detail, critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills are a must, too!

>Top 10 Online Bachelor's in Data Science

University of Alabama at Birmingham
Saint Louis University
Southern New Hampshire University
Golden Gate University
Maryville University
Thomas Jefferson University
Austin Peay State University
Troy University
Liberty University
University of the Sciences

Saint Louis University
Thomas Jefferson University
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Liberty University
Golden Gate University
Southern New Hampshire University
Troy University
Lipscomb University
St. Petersburg College
Austin Peay State University

Liberty University 99%
Southern New Hampshire University 96%
Troy University 95%
Austin Peay State University 94%
Husson University 91%
Thomas Jefferson University 89%
Maryville University 88%
University of Alabama at Birmingham 87%
Saint Louis University 85%
Lipscomb University 71%

Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
St. Petersburg College 22 to 1
Liberty University 18 to 1
University of Alabama at Birmingham 18 to 1
Troy University 16 to 1
Colorado Christian University 16 to 1
Husson University 16 to 1
Thomas Edison State University 15 to 1
Austin Peay State University 14 to 1
Bellevue University 13 to 1

Saint Louis University $50,644
Thomas Jefferson University $44,350
Lipscomb University $37,152
Newman University, Wichita $34,400
Maryville University $27,166
Capitol Technology University $27,004
Ohio Christian University $23,050
Liberty University $22,511
Husson University $21,090
Colorado Christian University $17,476

Thomas Jefferson University $22,509
Saint Louis University $22,500
Golden Gate University $19,620
Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
Lipscomb University $17,370
Husson University $17,220
Maryville University $14,346
Colorado Christian University $13,931
Thomas Edison State University $12,150
Bellevue University $11,340

Herzing University
Capitol Technology University
Husson University
Ohio Christian University
Thomas Edison State University
Newman University, Wichita
Lipscomb University
Colorado Christian University
Bellevue University
St. Petersburg College

Newman University, Wichita
Ohio Christian University
Colorado Christian University
Bellevue University
Capitol Technology University
Thomas Edison State University
Maryville University
Herzing University
Husson University
University of the Sciences

Newman University, Wichita 51%
Capitol Technology University 64%
Lipscomb University 71%
Saint Louis University 85%
University of Alabama at Birmingham 87%
Maryville University 88%
Thomas Jefferson University 89%
Husson University 91%
Austin Peay State University 94%
Troy University 95%

Ohio Christian University 8 to 1
Saint Louis University 9 to 1
Capitol Technology University 9 to 1
Newman University, Wichita 10 to 1
Bellevue University 13 to 1
Golden Gate University 13 to 1
Lipscomb University 13 to 1
Maryville University 13 to 1
Thomas Jefferson University 13 to 1
Austin Peay State University 14 to 1

St. Petersburg College $1,943
Austin Peay State University $6,816
Thomas Edison State University $7,372
Bellevue University $8,790
University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,832
Troy University $9,312
Golden Gate University $11,088
Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
Colorado Christian University $17,476
Husson University $21,090

Liberty University $7,893
Newman University, Wichita $7,920
Austin Peay State University $8,226
University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,424
Troy University $8,550
Ohio Christian University $11,160
Bellevue University $11,340
Capitol Technology University $11,340
Thomas Edison State University $12,150
Colorado Christian University $13,931

Table of Contents

Exploring Data Science and Data Analytics Degree Program And Its Career Prospects

A bachelor’s degree in data science and analytics integrates computer science, statistics, and math, providing a pathway to so many in-demand careers. As a data analyst, your main task is to provide crucial information for an industry’s decision-makers.

You may help healthcare organizations in studying information surrounding patient care. You could also help assess financial materials for firms that make huge investment decisions and handle research into what consumers will look out for in new products. Data science touches nearly every industry.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the job growth rate for data scientists over the next 10 years is a hefty 36%, making it one of today’s fastest-growing job markets.

A career in data science and analytics also has more than an above-average salary. And since this job is considered a “pandemic-proof” career path, professionals often have the convenience to work remotely.

What is the Online Bachelor in Data Science and Analytics?

A data science and analytics program trains students to gather data, analyze it using statistical methods, and draw conclusions. In this degree, your analytical and mathematical skills are strengthened. You will learn about the many data challenges in various industries like technology, healthcare, and marketing.

The online bachelor’s in data and science analytics provides students with the option of a distance learning program. For practical experience, some online programs offer internships at their local sites where students can also build their professional network.

Concentrations in Online Data Science and Data Analytics Degree

Bioinformatics/Biology: Students in bioinformatics and biology are taught how they can apply data analytics to various topics in science like pharmacology, genomics, and neuroscience. Those who major in biology will learn the proper organization of biological data and apply the most suitable models for analyzing data. Bioinformatics/biology graduates can find careers in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.
Health Data: When making decisions about patient care or resource allocation, the healthcare industry relies heavily on data science. Health data concentrations focus on public health and other healthcare issues, including statistical modeling in biomedicine. This concentration also includes data analysis uses in health insurance.
Economics: Students in data science and analytics who are interested in economic and financial data can pursue an economics major. Here, you will learn about consumer behavior, microeconomics, and macroeconomics. This concentration also the significance of analysis in policymaking.
Sociology: Data scientists constantly work with social data, especially when they are working for marketing companies or social media. A concentration in sociology will train students in analyzing data within a social context, including its ethical issues. Students will learn about the ethics of data sourcing methods, and how to build statistical models from sample populations.
Mathematics: Bachelor’s degree in data science and analytics students who love numbers can consider the mathematics concentration. This concentration has additional courses in statistics, calculus, and number theories. You can also explore applied mathematics and algorithm theory.

Common Courses in Online Bachelor’s in Data Science and Analytics

Calculus: A degree in data analysis requires solid mathematical skills. Programs include a calculus course that trains undergraduates in geometric and analytic functions.
Data Structures: Students will study data structures and algorithms and hone their computational skills. Topics usually include graphs, recursions, and sorting algorithms.
Data Analysis and Visualizations: This course combines data science with visualization techniques so students will have proper knowledge in analyzing dimensional data.
Statistical Modeling: This will introduce statistical computing, linear regression models, and simulations. Students will learn how to analyze variances and examine assumptions.
Data Science Ethics: Here, students use personal information when creating conclusions about groups. They learn about discrimination and bias in data analysis, study how data-based decisions can create a social impact and assess various ethical issues relative to applying algorithms to personal information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Data Science Degrees

In today’s technology-centered world, data science can lead to opportunities in various professional sectors, including business, healthcare, and social media.

Students with an interest in data college and analysis can earn their bachelor’s in data science and analytics either online or on campus. This undergraduate degree is about 120 credits, and students can expect to take courses on predictive analytics, optimization for linear programming, and forecasting analytics.

Students who earn this bachelor’s degree will apply their knowledge in quantitative modeling and data analysis to solve problems and make predictions. Graduates often hold positions as data scientists, business intelligence officers, and usability analysts.

Data Analysts vs Data Scientists

The key difference between data scientist and data analyst job duties is how the data is manipulated.

Data scientists collect new data and look for meaning by using tools like algorithms and models to predict future events. By contrast, data analysts work with existing data to answer specific questions. The data they analyze is often already structured.

This is a simplistic overview of data analysts vs data scientists. Let’s do a deeper dive into the key differences between these two careers.

Data Scientist vs Analyst

A data scientist gathers new data for analysis. They clean and process vast amounts of raw data. This data is often unstructured, though data scientists might also work with structured data.

Additionally, data scientists often perform data modeling. For example, a data scientist could develop algorithms or predictive models for examining large amounts of information.

Data science applies to all manner of businesses and industries. Financial institutions, universities, and government agencies all employ data scientists, to name but a few examples.

On the other hand, a data analyst often works with data that has already been cleaned and organized. They then examine that data for useful information.

For example, suppose you’re a data analyst that works for a manufacturing company. You might analyze data sets on production times and look for patterns that can translate into actionable steps for reducing those production times.

Additionally, a data science vs analyst comparison should note that data analysts are usually responsible for disseminating information to those without data science expertise.

To do so, data analysts offer summaries of what the data says and provide insights into its meaning. Data analysts communicate these findings by using data visualization tools. These tools - like graphs and charts - help stakeholders understand the importance of what the data reveals.

From Data Analyst to Data Scientist

Data analysts and data scientists usually work independently of one another. But, in some cases, data scientists and analysts might be part of the same team.

In this case, a data scientist might spearhead the processes of collecting, cleaning, and organizing data. From there, a data analyst might take over to provide insights into the information contained in the data and report on their findings.

Data Analyst to Data Scientist Toward the Same Goal

Our discussion of data analyst vs data science should highlight that these professionals work to achieve the same basic goal - answer critical questions based on data. This just happens in different ways.

Data scientists deal with the unknown. They make predictions based on the data they collect. Meanwhile, data analysts seek to find answers to specific, tangible questions based on data from events that have already occurred.

The meaning derived from data can be immensely useful to organizations. Organizations can use meaningful data to adapt to changing conditions. It can also be used to improve the customer experience. There are more applications, of course. In any case, data scientists and data analysts are critical for extracting as much meaning from data as possible.

Learn more about how to major in computer science.

How do we determine the best online data science and analytics bachelor's degree programs?

Methodology

Pursuing your degree online doesn’t mean you need to settle for an inferior school. Today, most universities and colleges offer online degrees, and many respected schools are seeing significant growth in their numbers of online students.

The people affiliated with a school are ultimately what make it great. This is why influence — i.e., the academic impact of faculty and alumni associated with a school — gets at the heart of what is truly best in education. The combined influence score of a college or university’s top academic influencers is the best indicator of academic excellence. For our online degree rankings, we focus on the academic influence of faculty and alumni in the specific disciplines we’re ranking.

If you are serious about finding the best online colleges, you should be asking where the most influential professors are teaching, and whether their graduates themselves are advancing the school’s reputation for academic excellence. Most ranking sites rely on an opaque combination of reputation surveys and arbitrary performance metrics. Influence, as measured by our InfluenceRanking engine, provides a ranking that is free from bias, insulated from manipulation, and reflective of real-world educational outcomes.

Ranking the Outstanding Bachelor of Data Science and Analytics Degrees

Several programs across the United States offer an online bachelor of data science and analytics degree, but not all of these can be considered “ideal” programs. Our list consists of the top-rated colleges that deliver the undergraduate program online, which all demonstrate academic excellence.

A salient feature of the online bachelor of data science and analytics on our list is the relevant courses that emphasize a cultivation of the most-needed skills for this career path. The coursework also blends technical know-how with interpersonal skills that allow future professionals to perform better at work.

The online programs on this list qualify students for entry- to mid-level career opportunities, while also preparing them for a master’s degree in the same discipline. With a graduate-level expertise, students become eligible candidates for senior positions in careers involving data science and analytics.

The online instructors play a significant role in ensuring that students obtain the right training. And because each school on our list employs only the most qualified panel of seasoned professors, graduates become equipped for their journey upon completing the undergraduate program.

The online schools featured here are also regionally accredited, signifying their compliance with the governing academic standards.

20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs

Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

If you’re looking for a way to boost your data science skills, a data science bootcamp may be a perfect solution for you.

Online Data Science Programs Looking for You

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Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024

Featured Programs

Key Takeaways

>Top 10 Online Bachelor's in Data Science

Exploring Data Science and Data Analytics Degree Program And Its Career Prospects

What is the Online Bachelor in Data Science and Analytics?

Concentrations in Online Data Science and Data Analytics Degree

Common Courses in Online Bachelor’s in Data Science and Analytics

Frequently Asked Questions About Data Science Degrees

Why get a bachelor’s in data science and analytics?

How do I get a bachelor’s in data science and analytics?

What can I do with a bachelor’s in data science and analytics?

What’s the difference between data science vs data analytics?

Data Analysts vs Data Scientists

Data Scientist vs Analyst

From Data Analyst to Data Scientist

Data Analyst to Data Scientist Toward the Same Goal

Ranking the Outstanding Bachelor of Data Science and Analytics Degrees

20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs

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Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect from an online college course?+

Is online college easier than campus-based college?+

Why does accreditation matter in online college?+

Will I be able to transfer my online college degree?+

Will employers respect my online degree?+

What are the disadvantages of online classes?+

What are the advantages of online classes?+

Resources for Online College-Bound Students

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