Data analytics refers to the analysis of datasets as a way to develop conclusions from the data reviewed.
In the business realm, historical data may be collected, or a business may find new information about a specific product being introduced to the marketplace.
Data analytics enable a business to take raw data – for example – the target markets’ demographics, behaviors, and interests, and use it to the company’s benefit.
Data analysis helps to identify valuable insights hidden in mounds of data.
These insights ultimately help decision-makers make well-informed business about strategic marketing, customer experiences, the streamlining of business operations, and more.
What Will I Learn in a Data Analytics Program? (Curriculum)
Data analytics courses are available on-campus and online.
These data science programs are designed to allow students to explore and learn the techniques that permit the extraction and evaluation of data using methodology from the areas of computer science, statistics, and data-based business management.
Coursework for each program will vary, but generally include classes in:
- Introduction to Programming.
- Exploratory Data Analytics.
- Analysis of Algorithms.
- Data Structures & Algorithms.
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence.
- Machine Learning and more.
In combination, these classes provide the foundational framework for students to:
- Critically evaluate data.
- Interpret & visualize data.
- Draw accurate conclusions.
- Apply theoretical methods to real-world applications.
How to Choose a Good Program?
When the time arrives, and it is time to select a bachelor’s degree program in data analytics, it is crucial to base your decision on a number of essential aspects.
Each school approaches a data analytics degree program a little differently – perhaps highlighting one or more relevant areas within the career sector.
The following is a list of a few of the important aspects your selection should include:
- The higher learning institution’s reputation.
- The data analytics program’s reputation.
- The campus for traditional programs or the distance-learning platform for an online data analytics program.
- Affordability of tuition.
- The student-to-teacher ratios in classes/lectures.
- The school’s extracurricular options.
Is the Data Analytics Program Accredited?
The process of accreditation is a formalized procedure in which a school or a specific program is assessed against predefined standards.
At the regional level, accreditation is managed and administered by an agency sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Education’s regional accrediting agencies.
School accreditation is an important factor in determining the most suitable program in data analytics.
This is because accreditation affects earned credit transferability, plus a student’s ability/eligibility to qualify for financial aid from the federal government.
In addition to regional accreditation, institutions of higher education have the option to volunteer for specialized accreditation.
The Data Science Council of America
The DASCA is a globally-known accrediting organization that evaluates and accredits programs in data analytics, data engineering, and data science.
Programs accredited by DASCA align with the latest data science procedures and standards.
The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
There are Master of Business Administration degree programs (MBAs) that could be accredited by the AACSB is essential to “the accrediting gold standard for business schools.”
The AACSB initially accredited programs offered by Ivy League Schools and Public Ivies – those schools with high-quality programs that happened to be state-funded.
Will the Curriculum Meet Your Academic/Professional Objectives?
Does the planned curriculum have concentrations that will help lead you to a data analytics career of your choice?
Also, research the credentials of the program’s faculty.
Online vs. On-campus Data Analytics
With online and distance education options, there are now more choices than ever with regard to data analytics degree programs.
In addition, online programs offer accelerated academic pathways and added convenience/flexibility.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Bachelor’s in Data Analytics?
Most baccalaureate programs require the completion of approximately 120 academic credit units (for semester-based programs) to earn the degree.
A Bachelor of Science degree program in Data Analytics works similarly and will generally take four years to complete.
Certain data analytics degree programs at the bachelor’s level provide opportunities to earn credit towards the degree for previous related work or military experience, which reduces the time to complete the degree and the cost as well.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a Bachelor’s in Data Analytics?
The cost to enroll and complete a bachelor’s degree in data analytics will vary and, at times, the tuition and costs will vary significantly.
In an effort to reduce the expenses of a data analytics education, consider these cost-saving suggestions:
- Start at a community college (where the tuition is less than a four-year school). Transfer and then to a four-year school in your junior year.
- State-funded schools offer in-state residents more affordable education options. For example, the average yearly tuition cost for an in-state student (at a public in-state school) was $9,349 last year. In contrast, tuition for out-of-state students at public institutions of higher education was $27,023 a year.
- Consider enrolling in a program that is offered online exclusively or at least offered with some classes available online. These online data analytics programs are typically offered at a lower tuition cost, and students will have no travel expenses getting to and from school. Some online degree programs even offer accelerated study paths, offering another way to reduce the cost of your education.
- Determine if the school has a policy that allows for previous work or military experience to be applied toward academic credit requirements, thereby reducing the time to earn the degree and the final cost.
Many students are eligible for federal financial aid.
Data analytics programs often provide scholarship opportunities to interested students.
Finally, there are private loans or the option to work while earning your data analytics degree.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s in Data Analytics?
Data has great potential.
It offers incredible insight and value for organizations and businesses; however, the analytics component is mandatory if one is to uncover the power of data.
And, as the importance of data analytics grows across industries, it will become increasingly essential for firms to understand how to use data to the company’s benefit.
As a data analyst, you will be tasked with the responsibility of collecting, processing, and analyzing large sets of data.
Whether they have realized it or not, every business has the potential to generate, collect and use data as a business tool.
This data can be sourced from customer feedback, account data, existing logistics, marketing research, and more.
A data analyst is a professional who evaluates and manipulates data to improve customer experience, develop costs of new materials, or mitigate the costs related to transportation.
Data Analyst
A data analyst is the perfect entry position for many new graduates of a baccalaureate program in data analytics.
Data Analysts are tasked with the responsibility of data handling, data modeling, and data reporting.
And with a typical starting salary of approximately $70,000, it offers a great starting point for your career.
Data Scientist
A data scientist is another typical entry position for those beginning their work in data analytics, usually after earning a master’s degree.
The average salary of this position is $100,910 per year, which equates to $48.52.
Logistics Analyst
With a BS in analytics degree, graduates can start a rewarding career as logistics analysts.
The average salary for logistics analysts in 2022 was approximately $71,886.
Big Data Architect
Becoming a big data architect is a career in which you learn how to use big data.
The average salary in 2023 for a data architect was $113,700, which is equivalent to $54.66.
Even at the lower end of the salary spectrum, data architects earn $84,000/year.
Machine Learning Engineer
The Machine Learning Engineer is a relatively new data analytics specialty.
The average salary in 2023 for machine learning engineers was $121,788 per year.
Graduate degrees may be required for certain positions.
Analytics Translator
The analytics translator professional combines basic knowledge from the fields of both analytics and business.
The average salary in the United States in 2023 for analytics translators was $85,107, which is equivalent to $41 per hour.
Should I Get a Bachelor’s in Data Analytics?
To succeed as a data analyst, professionals need to possess strong math and analytical skills that translate to logical problem-solving conclusions and solutions.
Aside from the incredible career opportunities and financial benefits, the emerging field of big data has now created new opportunities across sectors.
With so many companies and governments looking to capitalize on the insights offered by data, it’s a great time to begin a data analytics career.
