- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best data analytics bachelor's degree programs reveals that data Analysts earn a median salary of $103,500 with 35% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Data Analytics programs include University of Southern California, University of Washington-Seattle Campus, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers data analytics education at $11,524/year with 97% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Data Analytics programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Data Analytics Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's
University of Southern California
USC uniquely offers data analytics training across three world-class schools - Viterbi Engineering, Marshall Business, and through extensive research at the Information Sciences Institute - creating the only comprehensive ecosystem where students can pursue analytics from pure engineering, business strategy, or applied research perspectives.
University of Southern California Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #1 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of Southern California's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 1,221 students annually with an impressive 92% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Information Sciences Institute (ISI) and Data Science Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Amazon, Google, Salesforce. Los Angeles entertainment and media industry access
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Google, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
World leader in AI, machine learning, and computational systems research
Machine learning and data mining research
AI applications for social good
Location Advantages
- •Los Angeles entertainment and media industry access
- •Silicon Beach tech ecosystem proximity
- •Strong alumni network across global industries
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Google, Salesforce, Boston Consulting Group, Goldman Sachs
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Santa Barbara
UCSB CS excels in machine learning, distributed systems, and data science research. Strong emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities. Growing tech presence in Santa Barbara with Amazon, Google, and startups nearby.
University of California-Santa Barbara Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Barbara as the #2 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of California-Santa Barbara's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 355 students annually with an impressive 90% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Four Eyes Lab and MINDS Group. Industry connections include partnerships with Amazon, Carpe Data, Franklin Templeton. Coastal location
Hakia Insight: With a 26% acceptance rate, University of California-Santa Barbara's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Human-computer interaction
Machine learning
Location Advantages
- •Coastal location
- •Growing tech hub
- •90% graduation rate
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Apple, Meta
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Los Angeles
UCLA CS combines top-tier research with LA tech ecosystem access. Strong connections to entertainment, gaming, and tech industries. Research excellence in machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.
University of California-Los Angeles Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #3 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of California-Los Angeles's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 172 students annually with an impressive 92% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the UCLA AI Lab and Vision Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Amazon, Meta. Los Angeles tech hub
Hakia Insight: With a 9% acceptance rate, University of California-Los Angeles's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Machine learning research
Computer vision
Natural language processing
Location Advantages
- •Los Angeles tech hub
- •Entertainment industry connections
- •Top 15 national ranking
- •94% graduation rate
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Intuit, Nextdoor, Uber
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley pioneered undergraduate data science education. Division of CDSS leads data science curriculum innovation. Bay Area location provides unmatched tech industry access.
University of California-Berkeley Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #4 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of California-Berkeley's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 122 students annually with an impressive 96% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Berkeley AI Research and Berkeley Institute for Data Science. Industry connections include partnerships with Pinterest, MapR Technologies, @WalmartLabs. Bay Area tech hub
Hakia Insight: With a 11% acceptance rate, University of California-Berkeley's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
ML and AI
Data science research
Location Advantages
- •Bay Area tech hub
- •Pioneer in data science education
- •Top 5 national program
- •Silicon Valley access
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Meta, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft
Admissions
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Virginia Tech combines CS and business analytics strengths. Strong research in big data and machine learning. DC metro proximity enables government and corporate analytics careers.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University as the #5 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 678 students annually with an impressive 95% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Discovery Analytics Center and Sanghani Center. Industry connections include partnerships with NASA, Leidos, Boeing. DC metro proximity
Hakia Insight: Through ties with NASA and Leidos, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Big data research
Data science
Location Advantages
- •DC metro proximity
- •Strong research
- •Government analytics opportunities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Capital One, Deloitte, Amazon, Microsoft, Booz Allen
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Davis
UC Davis combines CS excellence with agricultural and environmental research leadership. Unique data science applications in precision agriculture, climate science, and biotech. Part of UC system with strong industry connections in Sacramento region.
University of California-Davis Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Davis as the #6 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of California-Davis's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 196 students annually with an impressive 91% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Center for Data Science and AI Research and Genome Center. Industry connections include partnerships with Intel, Apple, Google. Sacramento region
Hakia Insight: Students at University of California-Davis benefit from active collaborations with Intel and Apple, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
ML and data science
Bioinformatics
Location Advantages
- •Sacramento region
- •Agtech hub
- •Biotech research
- •94% graduation rate
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Intel, Apple, Google, Amazon, Meta
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
UW offers one of the fastest business analytics tracks nationally at just 12 months through Foster, while simultaneously providing deep technical data science education through MSDS - creating dual pathways that serve both business-focused and technically-oriented career trajectories in Seattle's booming tech market.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #7 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 124 students annually with an impressive 97% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Foster Customer Analytics Center and eScience Institute. Industry connections include partnerships with Amazon, Microsoft, Google. Seattle tech ecosystem proximity with connections to major employers
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Microsoft, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Database marketing, e-commerce, and big data social influence models
Data-intensive discovery across disciplines, serving as campus hub for data science innovation
Location Advantages
- •Seattle tech ecosystem proximity with connections to major employers
- •Beautiful campus with Mount Rainier and Lake Washington views
- •Four miles from downtown Seattle
- •Strong ties to Pacific Northwest tech industry
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
JP Morgan Chase & Co., IBM, Costco IT, Toyota, Northrop Grumman
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-San Diego
UCSD CSE excels in systems research and HCI. Unique cognitive science integration for UX and AI work. San Diego biotech corridor provides unique career opportunities in health tech.
University of California-San Diego Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #8 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of California-San Diego's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 74 students annually with an impressive 81% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the ACES Lab and Calit2's Qualcomm Institute. Industry connections include partnerships with Qualcomm, Microsoft, Adobe. San Diego biotech hub
Hakia Insight: With a 24% acceptance rate, University of California-San Diego's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Advanced computing and engineering systems
Telecommunications and information technology with cyberinfrastructure focus
High-performance computing and data systems
Network systems research
Internet data analysis
Visual computing and graphics
Wireless communication systems
Neural computation and brain-inspired computing
Location Advantages
- •San Diego biotech hub
- •Qualcomm headquarters nearby
- •Cognitive science integration
- •Top 20 ranking
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Qualcomm, Google, Amazon, Apple, Illumina
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Columbia University in the City of New York
Columbia CS combines Ivy League prestige with NYC tech ecosystem. Leading research in AI, NLP, and data science. Strong connections to finance and media industries for unique career paths.
Columbia University in the City of New York Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks Columbia University in the City of New York as the #9 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
Columbia University in the City of New York's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 51 students annually with an impressive 100% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Columbia AI Lab and NLP Group. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan. NYC tech and finance hub
Hakia Insight: With a 4% acceptance rate, Columbia University in the City of New York's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Machine learning
Natural language processing
Data science research
Location Advantages
- •NYC tech and finance hub
- •Ivy League prestige
- •Media industry access
- •Top 15 national ranking
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Meta, Amazon
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Virginia-Main Campus
UVA School of Data Science integrates liberal arts tradition with data science. Strong ethics and policy focus alongside technical training. DC accessibility for government and consulting careers.
University of Virginia-Main Campus Bachelor's Data Analytics Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Virginia-Main Campus as the #10 bachelor's in data analytics degree program.
University of Virginia-Main Campus's undergraduate Data Analytics program graduates 81 students annually with an impressive 96% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Darden School of Data Science Collaboratory (DCADS) and The Behavioral Research at Darden (BRAD) Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Capital One, Deloitte. Charlottesville quality of life
Hakia Insight: With a 19% acceptance rate, University of Virginia-Main Campus's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
applied data science in business
behavioral research
Location Advantages
- •Charlottesville quality of life
- •DC accessibility
- •Liberal arts integration
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Capital One, Deloitte, McKinsey, Google, Amazon
Admissions
Best Data Analytics Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's — Complete Program Data
#1. University of Southern California Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #1 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $66,640/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 100.0
What makes University of Southern California stand out: USC uniquely offers data analytics training across three world-class schools - Viterbi Engineering, Marshall Business, and through extensive research at the Information Sciences Institute - creating the only comprehensive ecosystem where students can pursue analytics from pure engineering, business strategy, or applied research perspectives.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Google, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: USC offers three distinct data analytics pathways that showcase the university's comprehensive approach to data education. The MS in Analytics, housed in the Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (recently ranked top 10 by U.S. News), is a 28-unit program that blends engineering rigor with cutting-edge analytics. Students master tools like Python, R, SQL, Snowflake, and Google Cloud Platform while choosing from four specialization tracks: Data Engineering/ML Engineering, Data Science, Data Analysis, and AI Engineering. The MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) at Marshall School of Business is a 2-year, full-time STEM program ranked #8 in the U.S. by QS, combining technical training with business strategy in the heart of Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the MS in Applied Data Science from Viterbi is a 32-unit program designed for students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing hands-on experience with the goal of having students 'live in the data' through extensive practical projects and a unique professional practicum.
Degree Programs: MS in Analytics (1.5-2 years); MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) (2 years); MS in Applied Data Science (1.5-2 years)
Research Labs: Information Sciences Institute (ISI) - World leader in AI, machine learning, and computational systems research; Data Science Lab - Machine learning and data mining research; Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society - AI applications for social good
Industry Partners: Amazon, Google, Salesforce, Boston Consulting Group, Goldman Sachs
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Strong placement across multiple industries | Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Salesforce, Boston Consulting Group, Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, Tencent, Meta | Common Roles: Data Scientist, ML Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Analytics Consultant, Product Analyst
Notable Faculty: Dr. Dawn Porter (Statistics, Academic Director of MS Business Analytics); Dr. Mohammed Alyakoob (Digital marketplaces and economic impact); Dr. Arif Ansari (Data mining, business intelligence, data warehousing); Dr. Cosimo Arnesano (AI/ML applications to business processes)
Admissions:
Accreditations: STEM OPT extension eligible, DEN@Viterbi online delivery available
#2. University of California-Santa Barbara Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Barbara as the #2 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Santa Barbara, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 89.1
What makes University of California-Santa Barbara stand out: UCSB CS excels in machine learning, distributed systems, and data science research. Strong emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities. Growing tech presence in Santa Barbara with Amazon, Google, and startups nearby.
Hakia Insight: With a 26% acceptance rate, University of California-Santa Barbara's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UC Santa Barbara CS department is ranked top 40 nationally with strong research in machine learning, data science, and systems. Beautiful coastal campus with 90% graduation rate and strong tech industry connections.
Degree Programs: BA Statistics and Data Science (4 years); BS Statistics and Data Science (4 years); Master of Environmental Data Science (MEDS) (1 year)
Research Labs: Four Eyes Lab - Human-computer interaction; MINDS Group - Machine learning
Industry Partners: Amazon, Carpe Data, Franklin Templeton, Capital One, Deutsche Bank
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Apple, Meta | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, ML Engineer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 26%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#3. University of California-Los Angeles Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #3 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 88.3
What makes University of California-Los Angeles stand out: UCLA CS combines top-tier research with LA tech ecosystem access. Strong connections to entertainment, gaming, and tech industries. Research excellence in machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.
Hakia Insight: With a 9% acceptance rate, University of California-Los Angeles's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UCLA Computer Science is ranked top 15 nationally with world-class research in AI, systems, and theory. Located in Los Angeles tech hub with strong entertainment industry connections. 94% graduation rate with extensive industry partnerships.
Degree Programs: MSBA (15 months); Data Science Certificate (10 weeks intensive or self-paced)
Research Labs: UCLA AI Lab - Machine learning research; Vision Lab - Computer vision; NLP Lab - Natural language processing
Industry Partners: Google, Amazon, Meta, Disney
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Intuit, Nextdoor, Uber | Common Roles: Senior Business Data Analyst, Data Scientist
Notable Faculty: Felipe Caro (Faculty Director of MSBA Program, supply chain engineering, fast fashion retail); Francisco Castro (former Uber research scientist, operations and design of markets); Paola Giuliano (culture, economics and political economy); Auyon Siddiq (quantitative models for societal problems, urban mobility, health care)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 9%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#4. University of California-Berkeley Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #4 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Berkeley, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 87.5
What makes University of California-Berkeley stand out: Berkeley pioneered undergraduate data science education. Division of CDSS leads data science curriculum innovation. Bay Area location provides unmatched tech industry access.
Hakia Insight: With a 11% acceptance rate, University of California-Berkeley's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UC Berkeley Division of Computing, Data Science, and Society offers pioneering data science education. First undergraduate data science major at a major US university. World-class faculty and research in ML, statistics, and domain applications.
Degree Programs: B.A. Analytics (4 years); Professional Program in Data Analysis (1 year)
Research Labs: Berkeley AI Research - ML and AI; Berkeley Institute for Data Science - Data science research
Industry Partners: Pinterest, MapR Technologies, @WalmartLabs, Green Dot Corporation
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Meta, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft | Common Roles: Data Analyst, Data Scientist, ML Engineer
Notable Faculty: Professor Dorit Hochbaum (Analytics faculty advisor)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 11%
#5. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University as the #5 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Blacksburg, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $12,698/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 86.1
What makes Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University stand out: Virginia Tech combines CS and business analytics strengths. Strong research in big data and machine learning. DC metro proximity enables government and corporate analytics careers.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with NASA and Leidos, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Virginia Tech offers strong data analytics education through CS department and business school. Strong research in big data, machine learning, and business intelligence. DC metro proximity provides career opportunities.
Degree Programs: BS (4 years); MS
Research Labs: Discovery Analytics Center - Big data research; Sanghani Center - Data science
Industry Partners: NASA, Leidos, Boeing, Advance Auto, Norfolk Southern, Lockheed Martin
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Capital One, Deloitte, Amazon, Microsoft, Booz Allen | Common Roles: Data Analyst, Business Analyst, Data Scientist
Notable Faculty: Holly Caldwell (program contact); Johann Rudi (Luther and Alice Hamlett Junior Faculty Fellow); Steffen Werner (Luther and Alice Hamlett Junior Faculty Fellow)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 57%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#6. University of California-Davis Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Davis as the #6 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Davis, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Score: 83.9
What makes University of California-Davis stand out: UC Davis combines CS excellence with agricultural and environmental research leadership. Unique data science applications in precision agriculture, climate science, and biotech. Part of UC system with strong industry connections in Sacramento region.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of California-Davis benefit from active collaborations with Intel and Apple, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: UC Davis College of Engineering offers strong CS and data science programs with 94% graduation rate. Located in an agricultural research hub with unique applications in agtech, biotech, and environmental science. Strong interdisciplinary research opportunities.
Degree Programs: BS in Data Science (4 years); MS in Statistics (2 years)
Research Labs: Center for Data Science and AI Research - ML and data science; Genome Center - Bioinformatics
Industry Partners: Intel, Apple, Google
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Intel, Apple, Google, Amazon, Meta | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Software Engineer, ML Engineer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 37%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#7. University of Washington-Seattle Campus Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #7 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Seattle, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,524/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 83.0
What makes University of Washington-Seattle Campus stand out: UW offers one of the fastest business analytics tracks nationally at just 12 months through Foster, while simultaneously providing deep technical data science education through MSDS - creating dual pathways that serve both business-focused and technically-oriented career trajectories in Seattle's booming tech market.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Microsoft, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: The University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers multiple pathways into data analytics through two distinct programs housed in different schools. The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is a 12-month, STEM-designated professional program through the Foster School of Business, designed specifically for career acceleration with a focus on extracting business value from data. Simultaneously, the Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) provides a more comprehensive 1.5-year full-time or 2.5-year part-time program that covers statistical modeling, machine learning, data visualization, and software engineering with evening classes accommodating working professionals. Both programs leverage UW's position in Seattle's thriving tech ecosystem, with the MSBA program featuring direct industry engagement through faculty like Professor Oliver Rutz (O'Dell Award winner from the American Marketing Association) and Professor Hema Yoganarasimhan (Director of Foster Customer Analytics Center). The MSDS program emphasizes practical application through capstone projects with external organizations, connecting students directly with companies like JP Morgan Chase, IBM, Costco IT, Toyota, and local healthcare organizations like Seattle Children's Hospital.
Degree Programs: MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) (12 months); MS in Data Science (MSDS) (1.5 years full-time)
Research Labs: Foster Customer Analytics Center - Database marketing, e-commerce, and big data social influence models; eScience Institute - Data-intensive discovery across disciplines, serving as campus hub for data science innovation
Industry Partners: Amazon, Microsoft, Google
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Strong outcomes with dedicated career services including annual Data Science Career Fair | Top Employers: JP Morgan Chase & Co., IBM, Costco IT, Toyota, Northrop Grumman, Zillow, T-Mobile | Common Roles: Business Analysis Manager, Data Scientist, Operations Research Analyst
Notable Faculty: Professor Oliver Rutz (Customer Analytics, database marketing and e-commerce); Professor Hema Yoganarasimhan (Big data and social influence models); Professor Lalit Jain (Experimental design and artificial intelligence in marketing)
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#8. University of California-San Diego Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #8 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: La Jolla, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 81% | Score: 80.2
What makes University of California-San Diego stand out: UCSD CSE excels in systems research and HCI. Unique cognitive science integration for UX and AI work. San Diego biotech corridor provides unique career opportunities in health tech.
Hakia Insight: With a 24% acceptance rate, University of California-San Diego's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UC San Diego CSE ranks top 20 nationally with cutting-edge research in systems, AI, and human-computer interaction. La Jolla location near biotech and tech companies. Strong interdisciplinary programs with cognitive science.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Data Science (4 years)
Research Labs: ACES Lab - Advanced computing and engineering systems; Calit2's Qualcomm Institute - Telecommunications and information technology with cyberinfrastructure focus; San Diego Supercomputer Center - High-performance computing and data systems; Center for Networked Systems - Network systems research; Cooperative Association for Internet Data Analysis - Internet data analysis; Center for Visual Computing - Visual computing and graphics; Center for Wireless Communications - Wireless communication systems; Institute for Neural Computation - Neural computation and brain-inspired computing
Industry Partners: Qualcomm, Microsoft, Adobe, Amazon Web Services, IBM, Roblox Corporation, ServiceNow, AT&T, Sony Electronics, Abbott
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Qualcomm, Google, Amazon, Apple, Illumina | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, UX Researcher
Notable Faculty: Dr. Andrew B. Kahng (Integrated-circuit design and performance analyses); Dr. Paul H. Siegel (Information theory and data storage systems); Dr. Truong Nguyen (Digital signal processing and image analysis); Dr. Tara Javidi (Statistical learning and network optimization); Dr. Farinaz Koushanfar (Hardware security and acceleration systems); Dr. Nuno M. Vasconcelos (Computer vision and machine learning)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 24%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#9. Columbia University in the City of New York Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks Columbia University in the City of New York as the #9 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,526/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 79.0
What makes Columbia University in the City of New York stand out: Columbia CS combines Ivy League prestige with NYC tech ecosystem. Leading research in AI, NLP, and data science. Strong connections to finance and media industries for unique career paths.
Hakia Insight: With a 4% acceptance rate, Columbia University in the City of New York's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: Columbia CS is top 15 nationally with exceptional research in machine learning, NLP, and systems. NYC location provides unparalleled access to finance, media, and tech industries. Strong Ivy League network.
Degree Programs: MS (3 terms); MS (6 terms); MSBA (3 semesters)
Research Labs: Columbia AI Lab - Machine learning; NLP Group - Natural language processing; Data Science Institute - Data science research
Industry Partners: Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Meta
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Meta, Amazon | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Quantitative Developer
Notable Faculty: Dr. Aaron Foster (mathematics and data analytics in healthcare); Ron Papka (banking analytics)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 4%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#10. University of Virginia-Main Campus Bachelor's Data Analytics Program
Hakia ranks University of Virginia-Main Campus as the #10 bachelor's in data analytics degree program. Location: Charlottesville, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $18,823/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 78.4
What makes University of Virginia-Main Campus stand out: UVA School of Data Science integrates liberal arts tradition with data science. Strong ethics and policy focus alongside technical training. DC accessibility for government and consulting careers.
Hakia Insight: With a 19% acceptance rate, University of Virginia-Main Campus's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UVA School of Data Science offers dedicated data science education with strong liberal arts foundation. Combines technical skills with business and policy applications. Charlottesville provides quality of life with DC metro access.
Degree Programs: Minor in Data Analytics; MS in Data Science Residential (11 months); MS in Data Science Online; MS in Business Analytics (with McIntire) (12 months); PhD
Research Labs: Darden School of Data Science Collaboratory (DCADS) - applied data science in business; The Behavioral Research at Darden (BRAD) Lab - behavioral research
Industry Partners: Capital One, Deloitte
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Capital One, Deloitte, McKinsey, Google, Amazon | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Analyst
Notable Faculty: Thomas H. Davenport (Bodily Bicentennial Professor 2024-25, competing on analytics and AI); Yael Grushka-Cockayne (Professor of Business Administration, Senior Associate Dean); Samuel E. Bodily (John Tyler Professor Emeritus, decision analysis)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 19%
Best Data Analytics Programs - Compare Top 5 Bachelor's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 100.0/100 |
| #2 University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | 89.1/100 |
| #3 University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | 88.3/100 |
| #4 University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 87.5/100 |
| #5 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | 86.1/100 |
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Top 50 Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 100 |
| 2 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | — | 89.1 |
| 3 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | 88.3 |
| 4 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 87.5 |
| 5 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | — | 86.1 |
| 6 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | 83.9 |
| 7 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 83 |
| 8 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 80.2 |
| 9 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | — | 79 |
| 10 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | Charlottesville, VA | Public | $18,823 | 96% | — | 78.4 |
| 11 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 100% | — | 78 |
| 12 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | Public | $5,742 | 83% | — | 77.8 |
| 13 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Public | $4,477 | 95% | — | 76.3 |
| 14 | Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | Private | $65,204 | 95% | — | 76.2 |
| 15 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | — | 75.7 |
| 16 | Loyola Marymount University | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $57,602 | 94% | — | 75.5 |
| 17 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | — | 75.3 |
| 18 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | New Brunswick, NJ | Public | $13,674 | 82% | — | 75.1 |
| 19 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | 74.9 |
| 20 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | Public | $8,685 | 91% | — | 74.8 |
| 21 | William & Mary | Williamsburg, VA | Public | $18,253 | 94% | — | 74.5 |
| 22 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 74.1 |
| 23 | New York University | New York, NY | Private | $60,438 | — | — | 74 |
| 24 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | — | 73.6 |
| 25 | Emory University | Atlanta, GA | Private | $59,920 | 97% | — | 73.2 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
How Much Does a Data Analytics Bachelors Degree Cost?
The total cost of a bachelors's degree in Data Analytics ranges from $40,000 at public universities to over $180,000 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (Research.com, TechGuide, University catalogs).
- Public University (In-State): $10,000/year × 4 years = $40,000 total
- Public University (Out-of-State): $25,000/year × 4 years = $100,000 total
- Private University: $45,000/year × 4 years = $180,000 total
- Online Programs: $15,000/year × 4 years = $60,000 total
With median starting salaries of $91,290, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$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.
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
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
Bachelor of Arts vs Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics
| Factor | Bachelor of Arts (BA) | Bachelor of Science (BS) |
|---|---|---|
| Math Requirements | Statistics, Business Math, Basic Calculus | Calculus I-II, Linear Algebra, Statistics, Probability |
| Science Requirements | General science, basic programming | Computer science fundamentals, database systems |
| Core Credits | Business-focused with communication emphasis (100-120 credits) | Technical focus with statistics and CS courses (120 credits) |
| Liberal Arts | Business communication, management, economics | Technical writing, data visualization, research methods |
| Career Focus | Marketing Analyst, Business Analyst, Financial Analyst | Data Analyst, BI Developer, Operations Research Analyst |
Source: University curriculum analysis (MIT, Northwestern, USC)
Getting Started: No Prior Experience Needed
A Data Analytics bachelor's degree requires no prior programming or technical experience. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 70% of students entering technical degree programs have no prior coding background. Programs are designed to take complete beginners to job-ready professionals over four years.
What to Expect Your First Year:
- Introduction to programming fundamentals (typically Python or Java)
- Mathematics foundations including calculus, discrete math, and linear algebra
- Computer systems basics and computational thinking
- Problem-solving methodologies and algorithmic thinking
Research from Computing Research Association shows that students who engage with tutoring services and study groups in their first year have 23% higher retention rates. Most universities offer dedicated support including office hours, peer tutoring, and programming labs. Success comes from consistent practice—not prior experience.
General Education Requirements
Bachelor's programs typically require 40-60 credit hours of general education courses alongside your Data Analytics major. These requirements, mandated by regional accreditation bodies, ensure graduates develop well-rounded communication and critical thinking skills valued by employers.
Common General Education Requirements:
- English Composition (6 credits) — Technical writing skills are essential; 89% of developers write documentation weekly (Stack Overflow Survey 2024)
- Mathematics (6-12 credits) — Calculus I & II, plus statistics for data-focused roles
- Natural Sciences (6-8 credits) — Physics is particularly relevant for hardware-adjacent specializations
- Social Sciences/Humanities (6-12 credits) — Ethics courses increasingly important given AI regulation
- Communication (3 credits) — Presentation skills for technical demos and stakeholder meetings
Pro tip: Many schools allow AP/IB credits or CLEP exams to satisfy gen-ed requirements, potentially saving $3,000-$10,000 in tuition. Check your target school's transfer credit policies before enrolling.
Campus Resources for Students
Top Data Analytics programs provide extensive support infrastructure to help students succeed. According to EDUCAUSE research, students who utilize campus resources are 34% more likely to graduate on time.
Essential Campus Resources:
- Computer Labs — 24/7 access to high-performance workstations, often with specialized software (MATLAB, AWS credits, GPU clusters)
- Career Services — Resume reviews, mock interviews, and direct recruiter connections; top programs host 50+ tech companies annually
- Tutoring Centers — Free peer tutoring for programming, math, and core courses; many offer drop-in hours
- Student Organizations — ACM chapters, hackathon teams, and Women in Computing groups provide networking and project experience
- Research Opportunities — Undergraduate research positions with faculty can lead to publications and graduate school recommendations
When evaluating programs, ask about student-to-advisor ratios. The NACADA recommends no more than 300:1 for effective academic advising, though top tech programs often achieve 150:1 or better.
Internships & Co-op Programs
Data Analytics internships offer the highest compensation of any undergraduate major, with an average hourly wage of $24.76 according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2024 Report. Top-tier companies pay significantly more—often 3-5x the average rate.
Top Employers for Data Analytics Interns:
- Google — $8,000-$10,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Amazon — $7,500-$9,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Microsoft — $7,000-$9,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Meta — $6,500-$8,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Apple — $6,000-$8,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
53% of interns receive full-time job offers from their internship employers (NACE 2024). For paid internships specifically, the conversion rate jumps to 70-75%. Most applications open August-October for the following summer—start preparing early.
For salary expectations after graduation, see our data analyst salary guide.
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to identify trends and build predictive models
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-1211Transform data into actionable insights for business decision-making
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2051Collect, process, and analyze data to support organizational goals
Market Research Analyst
SOC 13-1161Study consumer behavior and market conditions to identify opportunities
Operations Research Analyst
SOC 15-2031Use advanced analytics to solve complex business problems
Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and implement ML systems for production environments
Top States for Data Analytics Education
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in California | 38 | $18,500 | UC Berkeley |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Texas | 32 | $15,200 | UT Austin |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in New York | 28 | $22,800 | NYU |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Pennsylvania | 24 | $19,400 | Carnegie Mellon |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Illinois | 22 | $16,800 | Northwestern |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Florida | 20 | $14,600 | University of Florida |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Ohio | 18 | $13,200 | Ohio State |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in North Carolina | 16 | $12,800 | NC State |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Georgia | 15 | $11,400 | Georgia Tech |
| Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Virginia | 14 | $13,600 | Virginia Tech |
Financial Aid for Data Analytics Students
The average Data Analytics bachelor's degree costs $40,000-$160,000 over four years depending on institution type. However, strategic use of financial aid can reduce out-of-pocket costs by 50-100%. According to Federal Student Aid, 85% of full-time undergraduates receive some form of financial assistance.
Federal Aid Options (Complete FAFSA by State Deadline):
- Pell Grants — Up to $7,395/year (2024-25) for students with financial need; never requires repayment
- Direct Subsidized Loans — Up to $3,500-$5,500/year; government pays interest while enrolled
- Federal Work-Study — Part-time campus jobs, often in IT departments or research labs
- TEACH Grant — $4,000/year if you commit to teaching in high-need schools post-graduation
Data Analytics-Specific Scholarships:
- Computing Research Association scholarships — $10,000-$25,000 for underrepresented students
- Corporate scholarships (Google, Microsoft, Intel) — $10,000-$50,000; many include internship guarantees
- Professional association awards (ACM, IEEE) — $1,000-$10,000 based on merit and involvement
- 529 Plan contributions — Tax-advantaged savings; some states offer deductions up to $10,000/year
Bachelor's vs Associate's vs Bootcamp
Choosing between a bachelor's degree, associate's degree, or coding bootcamp depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path offers distinct advantages for entering the Data Analytics field.
Bachelor's Degree (4 years, $40K-$160K)
- Comprehensive theoretical foundation plus hands-on skills
- Required for most senior/management positions and graduate school
- Median starting salary: $75,000 (NACE 2024)
- Best for: Students seeking long-term career growth and research opportunities
Associate's Degree (2 years, $10K-$30K)
- Faster entry into entry-level positions
- Many credits transfer to 4-year programs (2+2 pathway)
- Median starting salary: $50,000-$60,000
- Best for: Career changers or those testing interest before committing to 4 years
Coding Bootcamp (12-24 weeks, $10K-$20K)
- Intensive, job-focused training on current industry tools
- Many offer income share agreements (ISAs) or deferred tuition
- Median starting salary: $65,000-$80,000 for graduates with strong portfolios
- Best for: Career changers with self-discipline; see our Data Analytics bootcamp rankings
For a detailed ROI comparison, read our analysis: Bootcamp vs Master's Degree: Which Has Better ROI?
Preparing for Graduate School
A bachelor's in Data Analytics provides an excellent foundation for graduate study. According to the Computing Research Association, 25% of CS bachelor's graduates pursue advanced degrees within five years of graduation, with master's holders earning 20-30% more than bachelor's-only peers.
Preparing for Graduate School During Your Bachelor's:
- Maintain GPA above 3.5 — Most competitive programs require 3.3+ minimum; top-10 programs average 3.7+
- Secure research experience — 2+ semesters with faculty dramatically improves PhD admission chances
- Build faculty relationships — You will need 3 strong recommendation letters; start early
- Take graduate-level courses — Many programs allow undergrads to enroll; demonstrates readiness
- Prepare for GRE (if required) — Quantitative scores above 165 expected for top programs
Graduate Degree Options:
- Master's (1-2 years) — Career-focused; average salary boost of $15,000-$25,000; see our best Data Analytics master's programs
- PhD (4-6 years) — Research-focused; typically fully funded with $30,000-$45,000 stipend; required for professorships and research scientist roles
- Professional Master's — Industry-sponsored programs (Google, Facebook) combine coursework with company projects
Choose Your Data Analytics Program Type
- You want maximum prestige and alumni network access
- Small class sizes and personalized attention are priorities
- You can afford $240,000+ total cost or qualify for substantial aid
- You're targeting consulting or finance roles in addition to tech
- You want world-class education at lower cost
- You qualify for in-state tuition rates
- You prefer larger, more diverse student bodies
- You value strong research opportunities and industry connections
- You need flexibility to work while studying
- You live in an area without strong local programs
- You prefer self-paced learning environments
- You want to minimize total program costs
- You want to minimize student debt
- You plan to work in the local/regional job market
- You prefer smaller campus environments
- You value close relationships with faculty
Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative to a Data Analytics Degree
Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers, typically lasting 3-6 months. While they can't replace the depth of a formal degree, they provide practical skills for entry-level positions.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program designed to teach practical programming and tech skills. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus on job-ready skills and real-world projects.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking for a fast entry into tech
- Professionals wanting to add coding skills
- Those who prefer hands-on learning over academics
- Budget-conscious learners
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
Explore Bootcamps with Springboard
Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund.
Programs for Data Analytics careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
- Data Science Career Track
- Cybersecurity Career Track
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Data Analytics Career Track
+$17K avg salary increase·6 months
- Microsoft partnership with industry-recognized tools
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
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Frequently Asked Questions About Data Analytics Degrees
Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs Overview
Data analytics has emerged as one of the fastest-growing fields in technology, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 23% job growth through 2032. Our comprehensive analysis of 450 ABET-accredited data analytics bachelor's programs reveals significant opportunities for students seeking to enter this lucrative field.
The best programs combine rigorous statistical training with practical programming skills in Python, R, and SQL. Top-ranked schools like Carnegie Mellon University and UC Berkeley offer specialized tracks in business analytics, sports analytics, and machine learning applications.
Our ranking methodology considers graduation rates (40%), student-faculty ratios (25%), career outcomes (20%), and program selectivity (15%) using verified data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024. We also analyzed connections to related fields including data science, artificial intelligence, and computer science programs.
Top 5 Data Analytics Programs Analysis
The top-ranked data analytics programs share several key characteristics: strong industry partnerships, comprehensive curriculum covering statistics and programming, and exceptional career placement rates. Carnegie Mellon leads with its Information Systems program that produces graduates earning .
Public universities dominate the value rankings, with UC Berkeley, Georgia Tech, and University of Washington offering world-class education at significantly lower costs. These programs maintain strong connections to tech hubs, providing students with internship and job opportunities at companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft.
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.