- 1.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 California-Berkeley, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Southern California based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of California-Berkeley offers data analytics education at $11,834/year with 96% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Data Analytics programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Data Analytics Programs - Top 10 Online
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley pioneered human-centered data science education, with MIDS being the first major online data science program to integrate ethics and policy throughout the curriculum, while MAnalytics achieves 100% internship placement and operates in the heart of Silicon Valley with constant industry engagement.
Program Overview
UC Berkeley offers two premier data analytics programs that represent different approaches to the field. The Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) is a 27-unit online program delivered by the School of Information, designed specifically for working professionals with flexible completion paths ranging from 12 months (accelerated) to 32 months (decelerated). Fortune magazine has nationally recognized this as the No. 1-ranked online data science program. The curriculum uniquely integrates computer science, AI, machine learning, social sciences, statistics, management, and law, with a strong emphasis on human-centered values and ethical implications of data science.
The Master of Analytics (MAnalytics) is a 12-month, on-campus STEM-designated program housed in the Industrial Engineering & Operations Research department, ranked No. 3 nationally. This intensive program follows a structured timeline: Python intensive (months 0-1), core analytical methods (months 2-6), electives and analytics lab (months 7-10), and a 200-hour summer internship (months 11-12). Both programs benefit from Berkeley's location in the innovation hub of the San Francisco Bay Area, with direct access to Silicon Valley companies and a robust research ecosystem including the Berkeley Institute for Data Science (BIDS), Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research (BAIR) Lab, and the Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Promotes scientific breakthroughs by advancing interdisciplinary, data-driven discovery
Computer vision, machine learning, natural language processing, planning, and robotics
Brings together world's leading researchers to explore nature and limits of computation
Catalyzing innovation in cloud computing and distributed systems
Industry Partners
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon University
CMU pioneered data-informed business decision-making at the Tepper School and houses the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, a world leader in high-performance computing, giving students unprecedented access to cutting-edge computational resources and real scientific datasets.
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon University offers a comprehensive ecosystem of data analytics programs spread across multiple prestigious schools, each tailored to specific career trajectories. The flagship Master of Science in Data Analytics for Science (MS-DAS) is housed in the Mellon College of Science as an intensive one-year program that combines rigorous coursework in applied linear algebra, machine learning, and statistical methods with hands-on experience using datasets from biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics hosted by the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center. Students complete a semester-long industry capstone project and a required communications and professional development component, totaling 99 units. The Tepper School of Business offers both full-time (9-month) and part-time online (20-month) Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) programs, ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report for Business Analytics. These STEM-designated programs emphasize strategic business applications of analytics, featuring experiential learning courses where students manage real company datasets and present findings to executives. The Heinz College contributes through its robust research infrastructure, including the AI Measurement Science & Engineering Cooperative Research Center (AIMSEC) in partnership with NIST, and multiple specialized research centers focusing on behavioral decision research, digital entertainment analytics, and teaching & education analytics.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI system evaluation, testing, and monitoring in partnership with NIST
World leader in high-performance computing and data analytics, hosts large scientific datasets
Public policy and managerial questions in digital distribution of entertainment content
Decision sciences research building on psychology, economics, neuroscience, and public policy
Industry Partners
Admissions
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.
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
Research Labs & Institutes
World leader in AI, machine learning, and computational systems research
Machine learning and data mining research
AI applications for social good
Industry Partners
Admissions
Stanford University
Stanford's Statistics and Data Science program sits at the epicenter of Silicon Valley, offering unmatched access to tech giants and startups while being backed by one of the world's most prestigious statistics departments with deep ties to industry innovation.
Cornell University
Cornell is the only Ivy League university offering a Master of Professional Studies in Data Science and Applied Statistics, and its MSBA program uniquely integrates the 'ABCs' framework - Advanced Analytics & AI Tools, Business Fundamentals, and Communication & Leadership - across three flexible delivery formats.
University of California-Los Angeles
UCLA Anderson's MSBA is the only program ranked #1 globally that specifically trains data scientists to communicate compelling 'data stories' to non-technical business leaders, bridging the critical gap between analytics and C-suite decision making.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
UNC created the School of Data Science and Society as an interdisciplinary hub that uniquely positions data science within societal impact, emphasizing ethical governance and collaborative partnerships with industry, government, and community organizations through every stage of learning.
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.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
659 data analytics graduates annually
University of California-Davis
355 data analytics graduates annually
Best Data Analytics Programs - Compare Top 5 Online
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 100/100 |
| #2 Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | 97.2/100 |
| #3 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 92.5/100 |
| #4 Stanford University | Stanford, CA | Private | $61,731 | N/A | 89.4/100 |
| #5 Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | Private | $65,204 | 95% | 88.6/100 |
Top 50 Online Data Analytics Degree Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 100 |
| 2 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | — | 97.2 |
| 3 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 92.5 |
| 4 | Stanford University | Stanford, CA | Private | $61,731 | — | — | 89.4 |
| 5 | Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | Private | $65,204 | 95% | — | 88.6 |
| 6 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | 87.4 |
| 7 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | Public | $7,019 | 93% | — | 82.7 |
| 8 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 82.6 |
| 9 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | — | 81.3 |
| 10 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | 80.1 |
| 11 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | 77.7 |
| 12 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh, NC | Public | $6,535 | 85% | — | 77.1 |
| 13 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 76.8 |
| 14 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | Charlottesville, VA | Public | $18,823 | 96% | — | 76.5 |
| 15 | Georgetown University | Washington, DC | Private | $64,896 | 100% | — | 75.8 |
| 16 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | Public | $10,095 | 80% | — | 75.1 |
| 17 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Public | $4,477 | 95% | — | 75 |
| 18 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 75 |
| 19 | Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD | Private | $62,840 | — | — | 74.5 |
| 20 | University of Chicago | Chicago, IL | Private | $63,801 | — | — | 74.1 |
| 21 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 100% | — | 73.6 |
| 22 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 73.4 |
| 23 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | — | 73.1 |
| 24 | University of Connecticut | Storrs, CT | Public | $16,332 | 88% | — | 72.9 |
| 25 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | — | 72.6 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Online Data Analytics Degree Programs Overview
Online data analytics degree programs have grown 340% since 2020, with 387 accredited options now available. These programs prepare students for high-demand careers in data science, business intelligence, and analytics across industries. Students learn statistical analysis, data visualization, programming in Python and R, and database management through interactive online platforms.
Top online programs offer the same curriculum and faculty as their on-campus counterparts, with added flexibility for working professionals. Students access virtual labs, real-time collaboration tools, and industry partnerships with companies like IBM Watson Analytics and Microsoft Power BI. Graduates pursue roles as data scientists, business analysts, and market research analysts with .
The best online data analytics programs combine theoretical foundations with practical experience through capstone projects, internships, and industry certifications. Many programs include cloud computing certifications and prepare students for roles in emerging fields like AI and machine learning engineering.
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex data sets using statistical methods and machine learning to extract insights and build predictive models for business decision-making.
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-1211Create dashboards and reports to help organizations make data-driven decisions, working with tools like Tableau, Power BI, and SQL databases.
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2041Collect, process, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns that inform business strategies and operational improvements.
Market Research Analyst
SOC 13-1161Study market conditions to examine potential sales of products or services, using statistical software and data visualization tools.
Operations Research Analyst
SOC 15-2031Use advanced analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and improve decision-making processes.
Financial Analyst
SOC 13-2051Evaluate investment opportunities, assess financial performance, and provide recommendations using data analysis and financial modeling.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Design, implement, and maintain database systems that store and organize data for analysis and business operations.
Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and implement machine learning systems and algorithms to solve complex problems and automate decision-making processes.
Top States for Online Data Analytics Programs
California
Texas
Florida
New York
Pennsylvania
Arizona
Georgia
Illinois
North Carolina
Virginia
Top 5 Online Data Analytics Programs Analysis
The top 5 online data analytics programs distinguish themselves through exceptional career outcomes, innovative curriculum design, and strong industry partnerships. Georgia Tech leads with its prestigious ABET accreditation and , while ASU offers the most affordable tuition at $16,416 annually with extensive industry connections.
These programs share common strengths: comprehensive curricula covering statistical analysis, machine learning, data visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI, and programming languages including Python, R, and SQL. All top 5 programs offer virtual lab access, dedicated academic advising for online students, and career services with job placement assistance.
Which Online Data Analytics Program Is Right for You?
- You want the highest prestige and ABET accreditation
- Strong in mathematics and can handle rigorous coursework
- Willing to invest in premium education for maximum career impact
- Interested in advanced machine learning and AI applications
- You need maximum affordability without sacrificing quality
- Prefer hybrid format with live sessions and recordings
- Want strong industry partnerships (IBM, Microsoft, Amazon)
- Value innovative online platform and student support
- You want prestigious university brand recognition
- Prefer smaller class sizes and personalized attention
- Value extensive alumni network for career opportunities
- Want identical curriculum and credentials to on-campus program
- You're military personnel or working in government contracting
- Need maximum flexibility with accelerated 8-week courses
- Have significant prior experience to convert to college credit
- Want affordable program near Washington DC job market
- You want extensive student support and 24/7 assistance
- Prefer competency-based learning with hands-on projects
- Need year-round enrollment with multiple start dates
- Value large program with extensive peer networking opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Data Analytics Degrees
Based on 387 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Degree completions (sqrt normalized, capped at 500)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
State-specific salary data from BLS OES 2024
Admission rate (lower = more selective)
Institution type (R1/R2 research bonus)
CAE-CD designation, curator bonuses
Data completeness proxy
Reporting completeness
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.