🥇
$11,100
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad rate
79.6
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data analytics degree programs: U of Alabama, Auburn, U of South Alabama
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $8,976 to $21,930/year
Auburn offers the most affordable option at $10,704/yr
Data Analytics degree programs available: 4 master's, 1 doctoral in Alabama
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
1 online data analytics degree programs in Alabama
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SAIC
Tech hubs in Huntsville and Birmingham
Hakia Research 2026
Data Analytics degree programs near 44+ cities across Alabama
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Alabama Data Analytics programs
We rank 11 accredited data analytics programs in Alabama using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Data Analytics Degree Programs in Alabama Worth It?
Answer
$98,520
Yes. The best data analytics degree programs in Alabama deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $98,520 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $11,864/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Analytics Degree Rankings in Alabama
Compare the top-ranked Data Analytics programs in Alabama by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Programs in Alabama
6
Programs ranked
$10,477
Avg tuition/yr
91%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 6 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Alabama, Auburn, U of South Alabama, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Alabama data analytics programs earn a median salary of $83,742, 15% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,976 to $12,090 annually, with an average of $10,477/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 91%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Alabama's leading technology employers. For students seeking data analytics degrees in Alabama, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$10,704
Tuition/yr
81%
Grad rate
77.8
Hakia Score
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$8,976
Tuition/yr
99%
Grad rate
59.7
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University of North Alabama | Florence, AL | Public | $10,200 | — | 32.9 |
Best Master's Data Analytics Programs in Alabama
4
Programs ranked
$13,464
Avg tuition/yr
85%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama offers 4 master's degree programs in data analytics, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Faulkner, U of Alabama, Auburn, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Alabama earn a median salary of $98,520, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $13,464/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Alabama's data analytics schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$11,100
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad rate
69.0
Hakia Score
🥉
$10,704
Tuition/yr
81%
Grad rate
68.5
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Data Analytics Programs in Alabama
1
Programs ranked
$11,100
Avg tuition/yr
90%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama is home to 1 doctoral programs in data analytics, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Alabama are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Alabama PhD holders earning a median of $123,150, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Alabama programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing data analytics degrees in Alabama, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Data Analytics Degree Costs & Tuition in Alabama
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $11,864/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $29,660/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,966/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $71,184 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $17,796 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Analytics Students in Alabama
State Aid Programs
Alabama residents pursuing data analytics degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to reduce educational costs. The Alabama Student Assistance Program provides need-based grants specifically for Alabama students attending in-state institutions, making it a critical resource for reducing tuition burden. Additionally, federal aid programs through FAFSA and the Federal Student Aid office remain available to all eligible students, regardless of state residency. These programs combine to create a comprehensive financial safety net for data analytics students across Alabama's 12 institutions offering this degree.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal grants, students should explore institutional scholarships offered by Alabama's top data analytics programs. The University of Alabama and Auburn University, which together produce over 220 completions annually, frequently offer merit-based scholarships and graduate assistantships to attract high-performing students. Community college students can take advantage of lower initial costs, averaging $3,810 per year at institutions like John C Calhoun State Community College and H Councill Trenholm State Community College, before transferring to four-year programs through Alabama's STARS transfer system. This pathway significantly reduces overall degree costs while maintaining academic momentum. For comprehensive guidance on federal aid eligibility and application procedures, visit StudentAid.gov to complete the FAFSA and explore loan options.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator, Alabama
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree in Alabama. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Data Analytics Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Alabama metro areas
Huntsville$108K
Birmingham$103K
Mobile$99K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Huntsville | $108K |
| Birmingham | $103K |
| Mobile | $99K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Data Analytics Graduates in Alabama
Find data analytics jobs in Alabama. These major employers across Alabama metro areas are actively hiring data analytics degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Analytics Jobs in Huntsville
ALNASA Marshall Space Flight Center
government
Redstone Arsenal
defense
Dynetics
defense
SAIC
defense
Boeing
aerospace
Data Analytics Jobs in Birmingham
ALRegions Financial
finance
BBVA USA
finance
Shipt
tech
Protective Life
insurance
Data Analytics Jobs in Mobile
ALAirbus
aerospace
Austal USA
defense
AM/NS Calvert
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Data Analytics Degrees in Alabama
State Transfer System
Alabama's Statewide Transfer and Articulation Reporting System (STARS) facilitates seamless transitions for data analytics students moving from community colleges to four-year universities. (STARS) enables students to complete general education and foundational coursework at one of Alabama's 26 two-year institutions before transferring advanced credits to bachelor's degree programs at four-year universities. This pathway significantly reduces overall educational costs, community college tuition ranges from $3,048 to $3,810 annually, compared to an average public four-year in-state cost of $9,589 (IPEDS). Top-ranked community college programs include John C Calhoun State Community College, H Councill Trenholm State Community College, and Jefferson State Community College, all offering data analytics coursework at $3,810 annually. Students completing associate degrees can transfer to institutions like Auburn University, The University of Alabama, or University of Alabama in Huntsville with guaranteed credit recognition.
How Transfers Work
Transfer articulation agreements streamline the path to bachelor's and master's degrees. The STARS system ensures that courses completed at community colleges align directly with four-year program requirements, minimizing repeated coursework and accelerating degree completion. Students earning an associate degree in data analytics or related fields at community colleges can enter bachelor's programs as juniors, finishing within two additional years. Many four-year institutions maintain explicit articulation pathways with nearby community colleges, for example, students in the Huntsville area can transfer from a regional college to University of Alabama in Huntsville, while those in Birmingham may target University of Alabama at Birmingham (tuition $8,832). The Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE) oversees these agreements to ensure consistency and student success. By leveraging (STARS), students reduce total educational costs while accessing quality programming and building a clear pathway toward bachelor's or master's degrees in data analytics.
Why Pursue a Data Analytics Degree in Alabama?
Industry & Workforce
Alabama offers a strong and growing data analytics education landscape, with 12 institutions delivering programs across all degree levels according to (IPEDS). In 2023, the state produced 194 bachelor's completions, 138 master's completions, and 3 doctoral completions, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to this high-demand field. Top-tier institutions like The University of Alabama and Auburn University lead the state with 127 and 95 completions respectively, providing students access to research-intensive programs that compete nationally. Whether you're pursuing an undergraduate degree or an advanced degree, Alabama's diverse program offerings ensure quality education at multiple credential levels.
Salary Outlook
Alabama's geographic position makes it an ideal location for data analytics students. Major metropolitan areas including Birmingham, Huntsville, and Mobile host significant employers in technology and analytics-driven industries, including Redstone Arsenal, UAB Health System, and Mercedes-Benz. The state's public four-year institutions offer affordable tuition, averaging $9,589 for in-state students (IPEDS), making quality data analytics education accessible. Additionally, Alabama's Alabama Student Assistance Program provides need-based grants for in-state residents, further reducing educational barriers. Students can explore related fields such as Data Science, Information Systems, and Machine Learning to develop complementary expertise.
Data Analytics Program Availability in Alabama
8 Programs
Alabama offers 8 accredited data analytics programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Analytics Job Market & Salary Data in Alabama
Employment Outlook
Alabama's data analytics job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a diverse employer base across multiple sectors and geographic regions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Alabama offers competitive opportunities for data analytics professionals across its major metropolitan areas. The state's job market is particularly strong in Birmingham-Hoover, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery, where major employers actively recruit analytics talent. With 12 institutions offering data analytics programs across the state, Alabama produces a consistent pipeline of qualified graduates to meet industry demand.
Salaries by Metro
The state's data analytics education system demonstrates strong completion rates, with 194 bachelor's degree completions, 138 master's degree completions, and 3 doctoral completions annually (IPEDS). Leading institutions like The University of Alabama and Auburn University contribute significantly to this talent pipeline, with 127 and 95 completions respectively. Career advancement is further supported by Alabama's transfer system through STARS, which connects community college graduates to four-year institutions, enabling workforce development across all education levels. Prospective students can explore detailed salary and employment trends through the College Scorecard and consult related field opportunities through Data Science in Alabama and Machine Learning in Alabama programs.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Alabama$64,038$142,854
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Data Analytics Programs in Alabama
Online Programs
1 available in Alabama
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$10,678/yr$11,864/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Data Analytics Programs in Other States
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Florida
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $4,500
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $9,800
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $11,300
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 3
- Median Tuition
- $9,300
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 64
- Median Tuition
- $11,800
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $11,500
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 44
- Median Tuition
- $11,700
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 42
- Median Tuition
- $47,200
Data Analytics Degree Programs in Alabama: FAQ
What are the best data analytics degree programs in Alabama?
The best data analytics degree programs in Alabama based on our methodology are: 1) The University of Alabama (90% graduation rate), 2) Auburn University, and 3) University of South Alabama. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Alabama offers 8 total accredited programs across 7 public and 1 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do data analytics degree programs cost in Alabama?
Data Analytics degree program costs in Alabama vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $11,864/year, while private institutions average $26,101/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $2,966/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $47,456 at public schools to $104,403 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can data analytics degree graduates earn in Alabama?
Data Analytics professionals in Alabama earn a median salary of $98,520, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $64,038, while senior roles exceed $142,854. Salaries vary by metro area: Huntsville ($108,372), Birmingham ($103,446) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online data analytics degree programs in Alabama?
Yes, Alabama offers 1 accredited online Data Analytics programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from University of North Alabama. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire data analytics degree graduates in Alabama?
Major Data Analytics employers in Alabama include NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SAIC, Dynetics. The Huntsville and Birmingham metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Alabama universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Alabama's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a data analytics degree program worth it in Alabama?
A data analytics degree program in Alabama offers strong ROI with a $98,520 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $11,864/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($111,328), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do data analytics degree programs take in Alabama?
Standard completion times for data analytics degree programs in Alabama are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Alabama community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Alabama university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for data analytics degree students in Alabama?
Alabama data analytics degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Alabama state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Alabama's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Alabama salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.