Top 3 Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs 2025
University of Southern California
1221 Data Analytics graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
659 Data Analytics graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
University of Pennsylvania
135 Data Analytics graduates annually, 100% graduation rate
- 1.450 accredited programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data (CIP 30.7001)
- 2.Median tuition of $14,200/year for in-state students at public universities, $42,800 at private institutions
- 3.65% average 6-year graduation rate across all programs (IPEDS 2023 gr2023)
- 4.Median starting salary of $72,000 for data analytics graduates, with 23% job growth projected through 2032 (BLS OEWS May 2024)
- 5.California leads with 38 programs, followed by Texas (32), New York (28), and Pennsylvania (24)
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.
Top 50 Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 100 |
| 2 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | — | 79.2 |
| 3 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 100% | — | 73.9 |
| 4 | University of Notre Dame | Notre Dame, IN | Private | $62,186 | 99% | — | 72.3 |
| 5 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | — | 69.3 |
| 6 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | 68.3 |
| 7 | New York University | New York, NY | Private | $60,438 | — | — | 66.3 |
| 8 | Smith College | Northampton, MA | Private | $61,260 | 98% | — | 66.1 |
| 9 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | New Brunswick, NJ | Public | $13,674 | 82% | — | 64.8 |
| 10 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 64.6 |
| 11 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | — | 64.5 |
| 12 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 64 |
| 13 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | — | 62.9 |
| 14 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Private | $64,887 | 90% | — | 62.2 |
| 15 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | — | 61.7 |
| 16 | University of South Carolina-Columbia | Columbia, SC | Public | $12,288 | 80% | — | 61.4 |
| 17 | Loyola Marymount University | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $57,602 | 94% | — | 61.4 |
| 18 | William & Mary | Williamsburg, VA | Public | $18,253 | 94% | — | 61.3 |
| 19 | Denison University | Granville, OH | Private | $64,000 | 97% | — | 60.4 |
| 20 | Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem, NC | Private | $63,608 | 97% | — | 59.9 |
| 21 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | Public | $8,685 | 91% | — | 57.9 |
| 22 | Trinity University | San Antonio, TX | Private | $50,712 | 97% | — | 57.9 |
| 23 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Public | $4,477 | 95% | — | 57.6 |
| 24 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | 56.9 |
| 25 | Bucknell University | Lewisburg, PA | Private | $64,418 | 94% | — | 56.2 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Compare Top 5 Data Analytics Programs
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 100.0 |
| #2 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | 79.2 |
| #3 University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 100% | 73.9 |
| #4 University of Notre Dame | Notre Dame, IN | Private | $62,186 | 99% | 72.3 |
| #5 University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | 69.3 |
Detailed Program Analysis: Top 5 Schools
Our spotlight analysis examines the top 5 data analytics programs in detail, highlighting unique strengths, student experiences, and career outcomes. Each program offers distinct advantages for different types of students.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $66,640 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 1,221 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 10%
- • Ranking Score: 100.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 1,221 data analytics graduates annually
- Located in CA with median salary of $145,770
- Private institution with 10% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 100.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 for Data Analytics based on graduation rate (92%), program size (1,221 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (10% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Master of Science in Analytics is designed to satisfy growing demand for professionals with technical and quantitative training in analytics for solving engineering and management problems in today's data-extensive digital world. The program uses rigorous mathematical modeling and computational methods tools to prepare graduates to convert data into meaningful information for decision support systems.
Program Details
- Credits: 30 units
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,698 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 659 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 57%
- • Ranking Score: 79.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 659 data analytics graduates annually
- Located in VA with median salary of $126,100
- Public institution with 57% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 79.2 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 for Data Analytics based on graduation rate (95%), program size (659 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (57% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Virginia Tech offers both undergraduate CMDA and graduate MSBA programs with extensive specialization options, substantial scholarship funding ($50,000 annually in Hamlett Scholarships), and mandatory capstone projects that provide real-world industry experience. The programs are highly ranked (#22 nationally for MSBA) and housed within the Academy of Data Science.
Available Scholarships
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credit hours
- Capstone Project Required
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rankings & Recognition
- MSBA-BA program ranked #22 in the U.S. by TechGuide for 2025
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $58,620 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 100% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 135 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 6%
- • Ranking Score: 73.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 100% graduation rate
- 135 data analytics graduates annually
- Located in PA with median salary of $108,830
- Private institution with 6% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 73.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 for Data Analytics based on graduation rate (100%), program size (135 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (6% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Penn's Data Analytics program offers flexible online scheduling with accelerated 8-week courses taught by University of Pennsylvania faculty including members from the Penn Program on Opinion Research and Election Studies. The program requires no prior training in math, statistics, or programming, making it accessible while providing comprehensive skills from basic regression to machine learning and big data analysis.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Programming Languages and Techniques
- •Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science
- •Data Structures and Algorithms
- •Probability
- •A Data Science Course or Machine Learning Course
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.4
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 4 c.u.
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,186 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 115 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 72.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 115 data analytics graduates annually
- Located in IN with median salary of $115,500
- Private institution with 12% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 72.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 for Data Analytics based on graduation rate (99%), program size (115 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Notre Dame MSBA is a one-year, STEM-designated program that combines targeted concentrations in Advanced Analytics, Sports Analytics, or Marketing Analytics with hands-on experience through data hackathons and real-world corporate capstone projects. With 86% job placement within 6 months and access to Notre Dame's highly responsive global alumni network, students gain both technical expertise and strong career support.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Program Details
- Credits: 31 credit hours
- Capstone Project Required
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $$79,000
- Job Placement: 86% accepted job offers within 6 months of graduation (2024)
- Top Employers: Amazon, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase & Co, Merrill Lynch, PNC Capital Markets, Roche, Tik Tok, Truist
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,644 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 323 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 43%
- • Ranking Score: 69.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 83% graduation rate
- 323 data analytics graduates annually
- Located in WI with median salary of $115,500
- Public institution with 43% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 69.3 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 for Data Analytics based on graduation rate (83%), program size (323 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (43% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Data science is one of the fastest growing career sectors in Wisconsin and across the nation. The program teaches novel and cutting-edge ways to apply computational, mathematical, and statistical thinking to data-rich problems in a wide variety of fields in a responsible and ethical manner.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 96
- •MATH 112
- •MATH 113
- •MATH 114
- •MATH 171
- •MATH 211
- •COMP SCI 200
- •COMP SCI/E C E 252
- •COMP SCI 310
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.000
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120
Career Outcomes for Data Analytics Graduates
Data analytics graduates enter one of the fastest-growing job markets in technology. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 23% growth for data scientist roles through 2032, with similar growth across analytics-related positions. Our analysis shows graduates from top programs earn -$95,000.
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
Data Analytics Programs by State
Data analytics programs are distributed across all 50 states, with California, Texas, and New York leading in program availability. State-specific analysis reveals significant variations in tuition costs and career outcomes based on regional industry concentrations.
Top States for Data Analytics Education
California
Texas
New York
Pennsylvania
Illinois
Florida
Ohio
North Carolina
Georgia
Virginia
Financial Aid for Data Analytics Students
Data analytics students have access to various financial aid options including federal grants, state aid, and industry-specific scholarships. Many programs offer research assistantships and internship opportunities that provide both experience and financial support.
Top scholarship opportunities include the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, industry scholarships from companies like Google and Microsoft, and need-based aid through programs like the Pell Grant. Students should also explore employer tuition reimbursement programs.
How to Choose the Right Data Analytics Program
Selecting the best data analytics program requires careful consideration of your career goals, learning style, and financial situation. Key factors include curriculum depth, industry connections, faculty expertise, and geographic location relative to job markets.
- Evaluate curriculum for balance of statistics, programming, and business applications
- Research faculty backgrounds and active research areas
- Assess internship placement rates and industry partnerships
- Consider total cost including living expenses and opportunity cost
- Review graduate employment outcomes and salary data
- Evaluate online vs on-campus options based on your circumstances
Which Should You Choose?
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternative Paths to Data Analytics Careers
While a bachelor's degree in data analytics provides the strongest foundation, several alternative paths can lead to successful analytics careers. These include related degree programs, professional certifications, and intensive bootcamp programs.
Strong alternative degree programs include computer science, data science, statistics, and mathematics with analytics focus. Professional certifications from Google, Microsoft, and SAS can supplement any degree. Consider data analytics bootcamps for intensive, practical training.
Based on 450 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data Analytics degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific data analytics salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Data Analytics Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.