University campus in Arkansas
Updated January 2026

Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas — 2026 Rankings

Compare the top data analytics colleges in Arkansas. 5 accredited data analytics schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from Arkansas State University to University of Arkansas.

#1 ProgramU of Arkansas
Avg Salary$85,730
Tuition From$7,176/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Best data analytics degree programs: U of Arkansas, Arkansas State, U of Arkansas at Little Rock

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $6,600 to $31,780/year

Arkansas State offers the most affordable option at $7,176/yr

IPEDS 2023

Data Analytics degree programs available: 4 master's in Arkansas

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

Major employers: Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt, Dillards

Tech hubs in Bentonville and Little Rock

Hakia Research 2026

Data Analytics degree programs near 42+ cities across Arkansas

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$85,730
Are Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas Worth It?
Yes. The best data analytics degree programs in Arkansas deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $85,730 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $12,072/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

5 programs•$85,730 median salary•87% avg grad rate
5
Programs
$85,730
Median Salary
$12,072/yr
Avg Tuition
87%
Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

Arkansas ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Arkansas, Arkansas State, U of Arkansas at Little Rock, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Arkansas data analytics programs earn a median salary of $72,871—26% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $6,600 to $31,780 annually, with an average of $12,072/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 87%, with the highest reaching 93%. 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 Arkansas's leading technology employers. For students seeking data analytics degrees in Arkansas, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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University of Arkansas

PublicNSA CAE
Fayetteville, AR
$7,666
Tuition/yr
$256
Per Credit
80%
Grad Rate
76.0
Score
Website
Visit University of Arkansas
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Arkansas State University

Public
Jonesboro, AR
$7,176
Tuition/yr
$299
Per Credit
93%
Grad Rate
52.3
Score
Website
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University of Arkansas at Little Rock

PublicNSA CAE
Little Rock, AR
$6,600
Tuition/yr
$220
Per Credit
47.1
Score
Website
#4

Ouachita Baptist University

Private
Arkadelphia, AR
$31,780
Tuition/yr
$725
Per Credit
40.0
Score
Website
#5

University of Central Arkansas

Public
Conway, AR
$7,140
Tuition/yr
$238
Per Credit
30.0
Score
Website

Complete Data Analytics Degree Program Rankings in Arkansas

Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

### Program Landscape Arkansas ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with **5 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **4 public** and **1 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **U of Arkansas**, **Arkansas State**, **U of Arkansas at Little Rock**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from Arkansas data analytics programs earn a median salary of **$72,871**—26% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$6,600** to **$31,780** annually, with an average of **$12,072/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **87%**, with the highest reaching **93%**. 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 Arkansas's leading technology employers. For students seeking data analytics degrees in Arkansas, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. University of Arkansas

    Hakia ranks University of Arkansas as the #1 bachelor's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Fayetteville, AR has annual tuition of $7,666 ($256/credit) and a 80% graduation rate. Ranking score: 76.0. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE, CAE-R.

  2. #2. Arkansas State University

    Hakia ranks Arkansas State University as the #2 bachelor's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Jonesboro, AR has annual tuition of $7,176 ($299/credit) and a 93% graduation rate. Ranking score: 52.3.

  3. #3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

    Hakia ranks University of Arkansas at Little Rock as the #3 bachelor's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Little Rock, AR has annual tuition of $6,600 ($220/credit). Ranking score: 47.1. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

  4. #4. Ouachita Baptist University

    Hakia ranks Ouachita Baptist University as the #4 bachelor's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This private institution in Arkadelphia, AR has annual tuition of $31,780 ($725/credit). Ranking score: 40.0.

  5. #5. University of Central Arkansas

    Hakia ranks University of Central Arkansas as the #5 bachelor's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Conway, AR has annual tuition of $7,140 ($238/credit). Ranking score: 30.0.

Best Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

### Program Landscape Arkansas 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—**U of Arkansas**, **Arkansas State**, **U of Arkansas at Little Rock**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in Arkansas earn a median salary of **$85,730**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt 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 **$7,146/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 Arkansas's data analytics schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. University of Arkansas

    Hakia ranks University of Arkansas as the #1 master's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Fayetteville, AR has annual tuition of $7,666 ($256/credit) and a 80% graduation rate. Ranking score: 76.0. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE, CAE-R.

  2. #2. Arkansas State University

    Hakia ranks Arkansas State University as the #2 master's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Jonesboro, AR has annual tuition of $7,176 ($299/credit) and a 93% graduation rate. Ranking score: 75.2.

  3. #3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

    Hakia ranks University of Arkansas at Little Rock as the #3 master's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Little Rock, AR has annual tuition of $6,600 ($220/credit). Ranking score: 48.7. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

  4. #4. University of Central Arkansas

    Hakia ranks University of Central Arkansas as the #4 master's in data analytics degree program in Arkansas. This public institution in Conway, AR has annual tuition of $7,140 ($238/credit). Ranking score: 35.8.

Data Analytics Degree Costs & Tuition in Arkansas

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$12,072/year
Average out-of-state tuition$30,180/year
Community college tuition$3,018/year
4-year savings for residents$72,432
2+2 transfer pathway savings$18,108

Source: IPEDS 2023

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Analytics Students in Arkansas

State Aid Programs

Arkansas students pursuing data analytics degrees have access to strong federal and state financial aid programs. The federal government offers grants, loans, and work-study opportunities through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), administered via (Federal Student Aid). All Arkansas public institutions participate in this system, making it the primary resource for financing your education. Additionally, Arkansas offers the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, which awards eligible academically talented students up to $5,000 per year. This state-funded program significantly reduces the burden of tuition costs and is available through (Arkansas Division of Higher Education).

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state and federal aid, many Arkansas institutions offering data analytics programs provide institutional scholarships and merit-based awards. Students should contact their chosen institution's financial aid office to explore program-specific scholarships and graduate assistantships, particularly at larger research universities like the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University, which award significant aid packages to qualified candidates. For more information on available programs and application processes, visit (Federal Student Aid) and (Arkansas Division of Higher Education). Compare aid packages across schools using (College Scorecard), which provides transparent cost and aid data.

Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator — Arkansas

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree in Arkansas. 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 2023. 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 Arkansas metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
Bentonville$94K
Little Rock$90K
Fayetteville$86K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Data Analytics Graduates in Arkansas

Find data analytics jobs in Arkansas. These major employers across Arkansas metro areas are actively hiring data analytics degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Data Analytics Jobs in Bentonville-Rogers

AR
Walmart Global Tech
tech
Sam's Club Tech
retail-tech
J.B. Hunt Transport
logistics
Tyson Foods
food-tech

Data Analytics Jobs in Little Rock

AR
Dillards
retail
Acxiom
data
Windstream
telecom

Data Analytics Jobs in Fayetteville

AR
University of Arkansas
education
Walmart
retail-tech

Admission Requirements for Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

1

Research Program Requirements

Review admission requirements for data analytics programs at your target schools. Requirements vary by institution and degree level.

2

Prepare Application Materials

Gather transcripts, test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE for graduate), letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

3

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA by priority deadlines.

4

Submit Applications Before Deadlines

Apply early for priority consideration. Early action/decision deadlines are typically October-November; regular deadlines December-January.

5

Complete Enrollment Steps

Accept your offer, submit enrollment deposit, complete orientation requirements, and register for classes.

Transfer Pathways for Data Analytics Degrees in Arkansas

State Transfer System

Arkansas provides seamless transfer pathways through the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS), which guarantees course transfer among public institutions. This system is critical for students beginning at one of Arkansas's 25 two-year institutions, including University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College, NorthWest Arkansas Community College, and University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton, which offer 3 associate's degree programs in data analytics. ACTS ensures that credits earned at community colleges transfer directly to four-year institutions without loss, enabling students to complete associate degrees and seamlessly transition to bachelor's programs at universities like University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, or University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Arkansas Course Transfer System).

How Transfers Work

The transfer pathway offers significant cost advantages, associate's programs at community colleges cost significantly less than four-year institutions. For example, University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton charges $2,688 annually, compared to $6,494 average at public four-year universities. Students complete foundational coursework in statistics, database fundamentals, and programming at lower cost, then complete specialized bachelor's coursework at research universities. This model is increasingly popular; 3 associate's institutions actively participate in statewide articulation agreements (Arkansas Division of Higher Education). For broader transfer and affordability context, explore most affordable programs and online programs. Related transfer-friendly programs appear in Database Management in Arkansas and Information Systems in Arkansas.

Why Pursue a Data Analytics Degree in Arkansas?

Industry & Workforce

Arkansas offers a strong ecosystem for data analytics education with 14 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state boasts 7 bachelor's programs and 4 master's programs, producing 240 completions annually across all credential types. The University of Arkansas leads the state with 142 completions, followed by Arkansas State University with 60 completions, demonstrating strong institutional capacity and graduate placement pathways. Students benefit from affordable tuition, with average public four-year in-state rates at just $6,494 annually, significantly lower than the national average.

Salary Outlook

Arkansas's geographic location positions students near major data-driven employers including Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt across growing tech hubs in Fayetteville, Bentonville, and the Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway metro area. The state's commitment to affordability extends through the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, which awards up to $5,000 annually for academically talented students. For prospective students, comparing Arkansas programs to national standards is worthwhile, explore national best bachelor's programs and best online options to contextualize Arkansas offerings. Related fields like Data Science in Arkansas and Machine Learning in Arkansas provide complementary educational pathways.

5 Programs
Data Analytics Program Availability in Arkansas
Arkansas offers 5 accredited data analytics programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville.

Source: IPEDS 2023

Data Analytics Job Market & Salary Data in Arkansas

Employment Outlook

Arkansas's data analytics job market is experiencing steady growth, driven by the state's expanding technology sector and the increasing digitalization of traditional industries. The state's major metropolitan areas. Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway and Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, are emerging as regional tech hubs with strong demand for data professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state's labor market continues to reward skilled data analytics professionals with competitive compensation packages. The diversification of Arkansas's economy, from retail and logistics to healthcare and advanced manufacturing, has created multiple pathways for data analytics careers across different sectors.

Salaries by Metro

The strongest job concentrations for data analytics professionals are found in the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metro area and the Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway region. These areas benefit from the presence of Fortune 500 companies and growing tech startups, creating a dynamic job market. Career seekers in Arkansas can explore opportunities through College Scorecard to understand employment outcomes from leading programs. For comprehensive state-level employment data and salary information, BLS occupational data provides detailed insights into the broader analytics and data science field. Students graduating from Arkansas's 14 institutions offering data analytics programs are well-positioned to enter this competitive market.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Arkansas$55,725$124,309
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

What You'll Learn in Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

Core Requirements

Data analytics curriculum in Arkansas follows industry standards emphasizing statistical analysis, data visualization, and business intelligence. Core bachelor's courses include descriptive and inferential statistics, database design and SQL, data warehousing, Python or R programming, and business analytics fundamentals. Most programs incorporate hands-on projects using tools like Tableau, Power BI, and Excel, with capstone courses requiring students to apply analytics skills to real-world datasets or industry partnerships. The University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, and University of Arkansas at Little Rock design curricula aligned with employer demands from major regional employers including Walmart and J.B. Hunt, ensuring relevance and graduate placement success.

Degree Pathways

Master's programs deepen technical competency with advanced courses in machine learning, predictive analytics, data mining, and advanced statistical modeling. Many programs require a thesis or capstone research project demonstrating mastery of complex analytical methodologies. Students interested in specialized tracks should explore Machine Learning in Arkansas and Database Management in Arkansas for focused technical skill development. For broader context on how Arkansas programs compare nationally, visit national best bachelor's programs and best online programs. Associate's programs focus on foundational database skills, basic statistical analysis, and data visualization to prepare students for transfer pathways or immediate workforce entry.

Data Analytics Specialization Tracks

Data Science

Specialize in data science through electives and capstone projects within your data analytics degree.

Information Systems

Specialize in information systems through electives and capstone projects within your data analytics degree.

Database Management

Specialize in database management through electives and capstone projects within your data analytics degree.

Machine Learning

Specialize in machine learning through electives and capstone projects within your data analytics degree.

Online vs On-Campus Data Analytics Programs in Arkansas

Online Programs

0 available in Arkansas

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$10,865/yr$12,072/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Data Analytics Schools by City in Arkansas

The Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metro area stands as Arkansas's premier technology hub, attracting data analytics professionals with competitive salaries and abundant opportunities. This region is home to Walmart, Tyson Foods, J.B. Hunt, and numerous tech startups, creating a dynamic ecosystem for career growth. The University of Arkansas, the state's flagship institution with 142 data analytics completions, is located in Fayetteville and maintains strong partnerships with regional employers. The cost of living in this region is moderate compared to national tech hubs, making it an attractive destination for early-career professionals. Arkansas Tech University, offering one of the state's most affordable bachelor's programs at $5,995 tuition, also serves this region.

The Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway metro area represents Arkansas's second-largest employment center for data professionals, with diverse opportunities in finance, healthcare, government, and retail. University of Arkansas at Little Rock and University of Central Arkansas provide strong academic pathways, with UCA located in Conway offering tuition at $7,140. This region benefits from lower cost-of-living compared to major national metros while maintaining competitive salaries for data professionals. Henderson State University, located in Arkadelphia and offering tuition of just $5,928, provides affordable access to data analytics education for central Arkansas residents. For detailed program comparisons, explore best bachelor's programs, most affordable options, and related fields like Database Management in Arkansas to maximize your regional career options.

Compare Online Data Analytics Programs in Arkansas

View tuition costs, program formats & enrollment info

Data Analytics Programs by City in Arkansas

Little RockNorth Little RockPine BluffFort SmithConwayRussellvilleFayettevilleHot SpringsSpringdaleArkadelphia

Find Data Analytics Programs Near You in Arkansas

Search by city to find accredited data analytics programs ranked by our state methodology.

Data Analytics Degree Programs by City in Arkansas

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas

As Arkansas's capital and largest metro area, Little Rock hosts the state's primary financial services and insurance sector, with companies like Stephens Inc. and QLogic requiring strong business intelligence and data management teams. The city's proximity to University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), which offers data science coursework, combined with its concentration of healthcare systems and government agencies, creates consistent demand for analytics professionals in clinical data, actuarial analysis, and policy research.

Little Rock is located in Pulaski County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 3.9 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 38.4 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 153.4 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 139.7 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 120.3 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, in Little Rock. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 120.3 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 139.7 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, in Little Rock. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, in Little Rock. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 139.7 mi from Little Rock. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near North Little Rock, Arkansas

North Little Rock serves as a secondary hub for manufacturing and logistics operations supporting major Arkansas employers, with particular strength in supply chain analytics and operational data roles for companies managing distribution networks across the state. The city benefits from its integrated metro position with Little Rock while offering lower cost-of-living than the capital, making it attractive for remote data roles and analytics consultants serving regional clients.

North Little Rock is located in Pulaski County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near North Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, in North Little Rock. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 38.4 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 153.6 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near North Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 140.4 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 115.9 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 5.5 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near North Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 115.9 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 140.4 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 5.5 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near North Little Rock, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 5.5 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 140.4 mi from North Little Rock. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Pine Bluff, Arkansas

Pine Bluff's economy centers on timber, chemicals, and agricultural processing, industries heavily dependent on production analytics, quality control data, and resource optimization that create niche opportunities for specialists in manufacturing analytics and environmental data management. The smaller market size means stronger remote work potential. Analysts here serve regional agribusiness and chemical firms or work fully remote for larger analytics firms.

Pine Bluff is located in Jefferson County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Pine Bluff, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 42.7 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 77.8 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 191.9 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Pine Bluff, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 177.3 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 135.5 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 39.9 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Pine Bluff, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 135.5 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 177.3 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 39.9 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Pine Bluff, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 39.9 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 177.3 mi from Pine Bluff. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fort Smith, Arkansas

Positioned on the Oklahoma border with a strong transportation and logistics corridor, Fort Smith attracts regional distribution hubs and freight companies requiring supply chain analytics, route optimization, and fleet management dashboards. The city's mix of light manufacturing and regional healthcare systems (Sparks Health System) creates opportunities for operational analytics roles outside the more competitive metro markets.

Fort Smith is located in Sebastian County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fort Smith, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 124.2 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 94 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 69.6 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fort Smith, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 50 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 123.5 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  3. University of Central Arkansas (Public) — State #4, 110.2 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $7,140/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fort Smith, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 50 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 123.5 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  3. Southern Arkansas University Main Campus (Public) — State #4, 157.3 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $7,200/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fort Smith, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 123.5 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 50 mi from Fort Smith. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Conway, Arkansas

Conway's economy is anchored by Hendrix College and the University of Central Arkansas, which collectively offer data analytics and computer science programs that feed local tech companies and create a talent pipeline for analytics roles in education technology and institutional research. The city increasingly attracts mid-size tech and software firms seeking cheaper talent alternatives to Fayetteville while remaining within the state's primary tech corridor.

Conway is located in Faulkner County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Conway, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 23 mi from Conway. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 16.8 mi from Conway. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 130.4 mi from Conway. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Conway, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 118.3 mi from Conway. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 112.1 mi from Conway. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 26.3 mi from Conway. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Conway, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 112.1 mi from Conway. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 118.3 mi from Conway. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 26.3 mi from Conway. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Conway, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 26.3 mi from Conway. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 118.3 mi from Conway. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Russellville, Arkansas

Home to Arkansas Tech University, which offers computer science and engineering programs with data analysis components. Russellville serves as a smaller alternative hub for students entering analytics careers while maintaining connections to regional manufacturing and energy companies. The city's lower competition for talent and cost of living make it practical for early-career data analysts and those seeking mentorship-focused roles in smaller organizations.

Russellville is located in Pope County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Russellville, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 58.3 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 23.8 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 94.5 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Russellville, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 80.1 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 142.8 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 59.1 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Russellville, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 142.8 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 80.1 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 59.1 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Russellville, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 59.1 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 80.1 mi from Russellville. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fayetteville, Arkansas

Fayetteville is Arkansas's primary tech hub, home to major operations for Walmart's e-commerce and corporate analytics divisions, J.B. Hunt's logistics data center, and hundreds of software and marketing firms requiring BI developers and data engineers. The University of Arkansas's strong computer science and business schools, combined with the region's startup ecosystem and talent density, make Fayetteville the most competitive and highest-paying market for data analytics professionals in the state.

Fayetteville is located in Washington County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fayetteville, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 138.8 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 102.9 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 17.6 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fayetteville, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, in Fayetteville. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 195.3 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 139.9 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fayetteville, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 195.3 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, in Fayetteville. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 139.9 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Fayetteville, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 139.9 mi from Fayetteville. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, in Fayetteville. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs' healthcare-centric economy, anchored by multiple hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and medical tourism, creates specialized demand for clinical analytics, healthcare business intelligence, and patient outcome data professionals. The smaller city size and established medical infrastructure offer a quieter alternative for healthcare data specialists seeking roles in clinical research analytics or hospital system BI without competing in larger metros.

Hot Springs is located in Garland County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Hot Springs, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 48.1 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 50.2 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 142.3 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Hot Springs, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 124.9 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 163.9 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 44.5 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Hot Springs, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 163.9 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 124.9 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 44.5 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Hot Springs, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 44.5 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 124.9 mi from Hot Springs. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Springdale, Arkansas

Springdale's explosive growth as Walmart's largest supplier hub and regional headquarters for Tyson Foods creates urgent demand for supply chain analytics, procurement intelligence, and agricultural data specialists analyzing logistics and production metrics across massive operations. The city's tight integration with Fayetteville's tech talent pool means access to advanced analytics roles without Fayetteville's higher cost of living, particularly for professionals supporting Walmart's and Tyson's data infrastructure.

Springdale is located in Washington County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Springdale, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 142.7 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 106.6 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 11.8 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Springdale, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 8.1 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 196 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 144 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Springdale, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 196 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 8.1 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 144 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Springdale, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 144 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 8.1 mi from Springdale. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Arkadelphia, Arkansas

Arkadelphia is a small college town (home to Ouachita Baptist University and Henderson State University) with limited local analytics employment, making it most relevant for remote-first data professionals or graduate students seeking affordable housing while completing analytics degrees. The town's proximity to Little Rock (50 miles) allows consideration of metro-area jobs while maintaining significantly lower cost of living.

Arkadelphia is located in Clark County, Arkansas.

Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Arkadelphia, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (Public) — State #1, 62.5 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $4,260/year.
  2. University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (Public) — State #2, 74.6 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $2,688/year.
  3. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Public) — State #3, 166.5 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $3,480/year.
Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Arkadelphia, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #1, 148.4 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  2. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #2, 179.3 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 58 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Arkadelphia, Arkansas
  1. Arkansas State University (Public) — State #1, 179.3 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $7,176/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 148.4 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #3, 58 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $6,600/year.
Doctoral Data Analytics Degree Programs Near Arkadelphia, Arkansas
  1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Public) — State #1, 58 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $6,600/year.
  2. University of Arkansas (Public) — State #2, 148.4 mi from Arkadelphia. Tuition: $7,666/year. Graduation rate: 80%.

Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers. For those in Arkansas considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

  • Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
  • Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
  • Self-taught developers seeking structured training
  • Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline

What People Love

Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming

  • SQL and visualization skills transfer directly to the job
  • More entry-level analytics roles available than data science
  • Excel, Tableau, and Power BI are in high demand
  • Shorter bootcamps (3-6 months) get you working faster
  • Business intelligence skills open doors across industries

Common Concerns

Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals

  • Analytics roles may have lower salary ceiling than engineering
  • Some programs over-promise on 'data science' when teaching analytics
  • Advanced analytics still requires solid statistics foundation
  • Tool-focused learning may not prepare for strategy discussions
  • Competition from self-taught analysts with domain expertise
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Programs for Data Analytics careers:

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Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in California19$11,834University of Southern California
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Texas16$30,694The University of Texas at Dallas
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in New York17$45,450New York University
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Florida13$4,640University of Florida
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Washington8$11,524University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Massachusetts12$59,750Bridgewater State University
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Illinois21$36,950University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Georgia4$33,080Emory University

Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas: FAQ

How We Rank Data Analytics Degree Programs

Based on 5 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 5 data analytics degree programs in Arkansas using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for data analytics graduates. Arkansas median salary of $85,730 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

Arkansas salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

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.

Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas — Detailed School Profiles

Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

University of Arkansas — Fayetteville, AR

Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines agricultural data analytics through CADA with interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, business, and arts & sciences, emphasizing real-world applications in agriculture and biological research.

Hakia Insight: University of Arkansas uniquely routes agricultural data analytics through CADA—students work on billion-dollar crop yield and soil optimization problems while building portfolios in a sector where data science talent remains chronically scarce, creating job market leverage most graduates never encounter.

At the bachelor's level, the University of Arkansas M.S. in Statistics and Analytics offers seven specialized concentrations including Business Analytics, Operations Analytics, and Computational Analytics, providing comprehensive coverage from statistical theory to practical applications. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks, with curriculum tailored to specific career paths in data science and analytics.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Agricultural Data Analytics
  • Arkansas High Performance Computing Center
  • Institute for Advanced Data Analytics
  • Center for Advanced Spatial Technologies
  • Center for Statistical Research and Consulting
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Karl Schubert — Data science program direction and industrial engineering
  • Dr. Samantha Robinson — Statistics, biostatistics, and data science consulting
  • Dr. Richard Adams — Agricultural statistics and entomology
  • Dr. Samuel Fernandes — Agricultural statistics and quantitative genetics
  • Dr. Aranyak Goswami — Bioinformatics and computational genomics
  • Dr. Jackson Cothren — Geospatial technologies
Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.2 (for GMAT/GRE waiver). Application Deadline: July 1 (part-time), March 1 priority (full-time domestic), November 1 (international).

Location Advantages:

Arkansas State University — Jonesboro, AR

Key Distinction: Arkansas State University's data analytics program is distinguished by its Center for No-Boundary Thinking approach, which promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between AI, bioinformatics, and advanced data science without traditional academic boundaries.

Hakia Insight: Arkansas State's Center for No-Boundary Thinking isn't marketing language; the program genuinely integrates bioinformatics, elections data science, and rural health analytics into one curriculum, giving undergrads exposure to federal research partnerships (MIT Election Lab, CDC) that most bachelor's programs reserve for grad students.

At the bachelor's level, arkansas State University's data analytics program is delivered through the Department of Computer Science within the College of Engineering & Computer Science, offering comprehensive undergraduate and graduate pathways in data science and data analytics. The program provides both B.S. Data Science and Data Analytics (DSDA) degrees with specialized emphases in Data Analytics and Data Science, each requiring students to choose from multiple domain areas including Business, Healthcare, Geospatial Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, and Social Data Analytics. The university has established the Center for No-Boundary Thinking, a multidisciplinary research center that develops human infrastructure at the frontier of bioinformatics, advanced data science, and artificial intelligence. This center promotes interdisciplinary collaboration without traditional academic boundaries and operates through four specialized divisions: Biological Systems, Advanced Data Science and Learning, Algorithms and Computational Methodology, and Medical Sciences and Public Health. The program is supported by modern facilities including the 82,000-square-foot Arkansas Biosciences Institute and various specialized research facilities. Graduate offerings include M.S. in Computer Science with Data Science emphasis and certificates in Data Analytics and Data Science. The Beck College of Sciences and Mathematics, which houses related programs, serves students across 20+ undergraduate programs and 10+ graduate programs, preparing graduates for careers throughout Arkansas and beyond as scientists in industry, technology, and research laboratories.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for No-Boundary Thinking
  • Arkansas Biosciences Institute
  • Institute for Rural Initiatives
  • Ecotoxicology Research Facility
  • Center of Quantitative Fisheries Ecology
Industry Partners
  • Elections Trust Initiative (sponsor)
  • Arkansas Department of Health (sponsor)
  • Centers for Disease Control (sponsor)
  • MIT Election Data and Science Lab (collaborator)
  • National Sedimentation Laboratory (collaborator)
  • USDA-ARS National Sedimentation Laboratory (collaborator)
  • National Center for Toxicological Research (collaborator)
  • Old Dominion University (collaborator)
  • University of Mississippi (collaborator)
  • Mammoth Spring National Fish Hatchery (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Jake Qualls — Chair of Computer Science and Associate Professor of Bioinformatics
  • Dr. Jason Causey — Associate Professor of Bioinformatics
  • Dr. Amanda Carpenter — Public Health and Research Program Management
  • Dr. Jennifer Bouldin — Environmental Sciences and Molecular Biosciences
  • Dr. Donghoon Kim — Computer Science
  • Dr. Mohamed Milad — Statistics
  • Dr. Richard Segall — Computer & Information Technology
Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0 GPA (2.0 for transfer students). Application Deadline: February 15, April 15, September 15.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • AACSB International

Location Advantages: Access to Arkansas Biosciences InstituteProximity to rural research opportunitiesConnection to federal research facilities

University of Arkansas at Little Rock — Little Rock, AR

Key Distinction: The program uniquely integrates immersive visualization technologies including The CAVE facility with advanced data analytics through the George W. Donaghey Emerging Analytics Center, combining theoretical research with practical applications in healthcare and interactive technology development.

Hakia Insight: UA Little Rock's integration of The CAVE immersive visualization facility with the Donaghey Emerging Analytics Center means students present findings in VR environments before they graduate—a rare technical skill that commands immediate premium in healthcare analytics and interactive technology roles where spatial reasoning directly impacts clinical decision-making.

At the bachelor's level, UA Little Rock offers comprehensive data analytics programs through both Computer Science and Business tracks, with students gaining access to funded research opportunities at the Emerging Analytics Center and recent graduates securing positions at top tech companies like Microsoft Research, Meta, and Unity.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • George W. Donaghey Emerging Analytics Center
  • The CAVE
  • EAC Lab
  • MidSouth Bioinformatics Center
Industry Partners
  • Acxiom (collaborator)
  • University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (collaborator)
  • Heifer International (collaborator)
  • IBM (collaborator)
  • ALCATEL (collaborator)
  • Philips Research (collaborator)
  • Siemens AG (collaborator)
  • Rockwell International (collaborator)
  • AT&T (collaborator)
  • U-HAUL International (collaborator)
  • US Government Accountability Office (employer)
  • Advance Print Solutions (employer)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Microsoft Research, Haliburton, Unity, Meta, CAE.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Ahmed Abu-Halimeh — Information/Data Quality, Data Analytics, Data Integration, Human-Computer Interaction, Health Informatics
  • Dr. Arya Basu — Virtual Reality and Human-Computer Interaction research investigating human spatial decision-making in virtual environments
  • Dr. Nitin Agarwal — Social computing, knowledge extraction in social media, behavioral modeling, data mining, health informatics
  • Dr. Xiaowei Xu — Machine Learning, Data Mining, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Data Science, and Deep Learning
  • Dr. Mary Yang — Systems Genomics, Bioinformatics, Statistical Learning, Data Mining, Machine Intelligence
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
  • Higher Learning Commission

Location Advantages: Located in capital city with two large military basesAccess to numerous financial, energy, IT services, and retail organizationsStrong relationships with industry partners for internships and job placements

Ouachita Baptist University — Arkadelphia, AR

Hakia Insight: Ouachita Baptist University offers comprehensive data analytics education through both BS and BA pathways.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics — 4 years, online

Location Advantages:

University of Central Arkansas — Conway, AR

Key Distinction: UCA's data analytics program stands out for its stackable undergraduate-to-graduate structure and faculty research productivity, enabling students to build expertise incrementally while staying connected to published, cutting-edge work.

Hakia Insight: UCA's stackable degree structure means you can earn a bachelor's while simultaneously conducting faculty-led research—then continue that same research thread into a master's without restarting, a continuity most programs break at the credential boundary.

At the bachelor's level, the University of Central Arkansas distinguishes its data analytics pathway through a deliberate ladder structure: students begin with introductory coursework in the undergraduate program, then can extend into graduate-level specializations in machine learning, business analytics, and statistical modeling. This stackable approach means undergraduates aren't locked into a single track; they can test interests early and pivot or deepen expertise later. The graduate program, in particular, attracts working professionals and recent graduates seeking advanced credentials, and it balances theoretical rigor (hypothesis testing, experimental design, Bayesian methods) with applied capstones using real datasets from regional employers. Faculty actively publish in peer-reviewed journals and maintain active research programs in areas like predictive modeling and data visualization, creating opportunities for motivated students to contribute to published work. UCA's location in Conway, within the Little Rock metro area, positions students for internships and employment with Fortune 500 service centers, healthcare systems, and state agencies, all major data analytics employers in Arkansas. The program's strength lies not in one flashy specialization but in a flexible, research-informed pathway that accommodates diverse student goals—whether that's industry placement, doctoral preparation, or specialized technical certifications.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Higher Learning Commission

Location Advantages: Proximity to Fortune 500 service centers, healthcare systems, and state government in Little Rock metro area

Best Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas

University of Arkansas — Fayetteville, AR

Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines agricultural data analytics through CADA with interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, business, and arts & sciences, emphasizing real-world applications in agriculture and biological research.

Hakia Insight: The Center for Agricultural Data Analytics partnership gives you access to real crop yield datasets and biological research that tech-focused programs never touch, positioning you for roles in AgTech and biotech where domain expertise commands premium salaries.

At the master's level, the University of Arkansas M.S. in Statistics and Analytics offers seven specialized concentrations including Business Analytics, Operations Analytics, and Computational Analytics, providing comprehensive coverage from statistical theory to practical applications. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks, with curriculum tailored to specific career paths in data science and analytics.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Agricultural Data Analytics
  • Arkansas High Performance Computing Center
  • Institute for Advanced Data Analytics
  • Center for Advanced Spatial Technologies
  • Center for Statistical Research and Consulting
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Karl Schubert — Data science program direction and industrial engineering
  • Dr. Samantha Robinson — Statistics, biostatistics, and data science consulting
  • Dr. Richard Adams — Agricultural statistics and entomology
  • Dr. Samuel Fernandes — Agricultural statistics and quantitative genetics
  • Dr. Aranyak Goswami — Bioinformatics and computational genomics
  • Dr. Jackson Cothren — Geospatial technologies
Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.2 (for GMAT/GRE waiver). Application Deadline: July 1 (part-time), March 1 priority (full-time domestic), November 1 (international).

Location Advantages:

Arkansas State University — Jonesboro, AR

Key Distinction: Arkansas State University's data analytics program is distinguished by its Center for No-Boundary Thinking approach, which promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between AI, bioinformatics, and advanced data science without traditional academic boundaries.

Hakia Insight: Arkansas State's partnerships with the CDC and MIT Election Data Lab mean you're not just learning analytics theory—you're working on election integrity and public health datasets that shape federal policy, a rare opportunity for students outside top-tier research institutions.

At the master's level, arkansas State University's data analytics program is delivered through the Department of Computer Science within the College of Engineering & Computer Science, offering comprehensive undergraduate and graduate pathways in data science and data analytics. The program provides both B.S. Data Science and Data Analytics (DSDA) degrees with specialized emphases in Data Analytics and Data Science, each requiring students to choose from multiple domain areas including Business, Healthcare, Geospatial Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, and Social Data Analytics. The university has established the Center for No-Boundary Thinking, a multidisciplinary research center that develops human infrastructure at the frontier of bioinformatics, advanced data science, and artificial intelligence. This center promotes interdisciplinary collaboration without traditional academic boundaries and operates through four specialized divisions: Biological Systems, Advanced Data Science and Learning, Algorithms and Computational Methodology, and Medical Sciences and Public Health. The program is supported by modern facilities including the 82,000-square-foot Arkansas Biosciences Institute and various specialized research facilities. Graduate offerings include M.S. in Computer Science with Data Science emphasis and certificates in Data Analytics and Data Science. The Beck College of Sciences and Mathematics, which houses related programs, serves students across 20+ undergraduate programs and 10+ graduate programs, preparing graduates for careers throughout Arkansas and beyond as scientists in industry, technology, and research laboratories.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for No-Boundary Thinking
  • Arkansas Biosciences Institute
  • Institute for Rural Initiatives
  • Ecotoxicology Research Facility
  • Center of Quantitative Fisheries Ecology
Industry Partners
  • Elections Trust Initiative (sponsor)
  • Arkansas Department of Health (sponsor)
  • Centers for Disease Control (sponsor)
  • MIT Election Data and Science Lab (collaborator)
  • National Sedimentation Laboratory (collaborator)
  • USDA-ARS National Sedimentation Laboratory (collaborator)
  • National Center for Toxicological Research (collaborator)
  • Old Dominion University (collaborator)
  • University of Mississippi (collaborator)
  • Mammoth Spring National Fish Hatchery (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Jake Qualls — Chair of Computer Science and Associate Professor of Bioinformatics
  • Dr. Jason Causey — Associate Professor of Bioinformatics
  • Dr. Amanda Carpenter — Public Health and Research Program Management
  • Dr. Jennifer Bouldin — Environmental Sciences and Molecular Biosciences
  • Dr. Donghoon Kim — Computer Science
  • Dr. Mohamed Milad — Statistics
  • Dr. Richard Segall — Computer & Information Technology
Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0 GPA (2.0 for transfer students). Application Deadline: February 15, April 15, September 15.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • AACSB International

Location Advantages: Access to Arkansas Biosciences InstituteProximity to rural research opportunitiesConnection to federal research facilities

University of Arkansas at Little Rock — Little Rock, AR

Key Distinction: The program uniquely integrates immersive visualization technologies including The CAVE facility with advanced data analytics through the George W. Donaghey Emerging Analytics Center, combining theoretical research with practical applications in healthcare and interactive technology development.

Hakia Insight: The CAVE immersive visualization facility lets you move beyond dashboards and spreadsheets into spatial data storytelling; combined with healthcare partnerships through UAMS, you're building skills in a sector where visual analytics expertise is still scarce and highly paid.

At the master's level, UA Little Rock offers comprehensive data analytics programs through both Computer Science and Business tracks, with students gaining access to funded research opportunities at the Emerging Analytics Center and recent graduates securing positions at top tech companies like Microsoft Research, Meta, and Unity.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • George W. Donaghey Emerging Analytics Center
  • The CAVE
  • EAC Lab
  • MidSouth Bioinformatics Center
Industry Partners
  • Acxiom (collaborator)
  • University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (collaborator)
  • Heifer International (collaborator)
  • IBM (collaborator)
  • ALCATEL (collaborator)
  • Philips Research (collaborator)
  • Siemens AG (collaborator)
  • Rockwell International (collaborator)
  • AT&T (collaborator)
  • U-HAUL International (collaborator)
  • US Government Accountability Office (employer)
  • Advance Print Solutions (employer)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Microsoft Research, Haliburton, Unity, Meta, CAE.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Ahmed Abu-Halimeh — Information/Data Quality, Data Analytics, Data Integration, Human-Computer Interaction, Health Informatics
  • Dr. Arya Basu — Virtual Reality and Human-Computer Interaction research investigating human spatial decision-making in virtual environments
  • Dr. Nitin Agarwal — Social computing, knowledge extraction in social media, behavioral modeling, data mining, health informatics
  • Dr. Xiaowei Xu — Machine Learning, Data Mining, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Data Science, and Deep Learning
  • Dr. Mary Yang — Systems Genomics, Bioinformatics, Statistical Learning, Data Mining, Machine Intelligence
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
  • Higher Learning Commission

Location Advantages: Located in capital city with two large military basesAccess to numerous financial, energy, IT services, and retail organizationsStrong relationships with industry partners for internships and job placements

University of Central Arkansas — Conway, AR

Key Distinction: UCA's data analytics program stands out for its stackable undergraduate-to-graduate structure and faculty research productivity, enabling students to build expertise incrementally while staying connected to published, cutting-edge work.

Hakia Insight: Unlike programs that reset at the master's level, UCA students who advanced through the bachelor's already have published research on their CV and established advisor relationships—a two-year head start in the credibility academics and employers actually value.

At the master's level, the University of Central Arkansas distinguishes its data analytics pathway through a deliberate ladder structure: students begin with introductory coursework in the undergraduate program, then can extend into graduate-level specializations in machine learning, business analytics, and statistical modeling. This stackable approach means undergraduates aren't locked into a single track; they can test interests early and pivot or deepen expertise later. The graduate program, in particular, attracts working professionals and recent graduates seeking advanced credentials, and it balances theoretical rigor (hypothesis testing, experimental design, Bayesian methods) with applied capstones using real datasets from regional employers. Faculty actively publish in peer-reviewed journals and maintain active research programs in areas like predictive modeling and data visualization, creating opportunities for motivated students to contribute to published work. UCA's location in Conway, within the Little Rock metro area, positions students for internships and employment with Fortune 500 service centers, healthcare systems, and state agencies, all major data analytics employers in Arkansas. The program's strength lies not in one flashy specialization but in a flexible, research-informed pathway that accommodates diverse student goals—whether that's industry placement, doctoral preparation, or specialized technical certifications.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Higher Learning Commission

Location Advantages: Proximity to Fortune 500 service centers, healthcare systems, and state government in Little Rock metro area