Most Affordable Data Analytics Programs 2025
Updated July 13, 2026

Most Affordable Data Analytics Degree Programs 2026

Discover the best value data analytics programs that deliver quality education without breaking the bank. Ranked by our Value Score algorithm that balances academic quality with affordability.

Programs Ranked91
Median In-State Tuition$11K/yr
Most Affordable$4K/yr
Value Score AlgorithmQ/T
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Key Takeaways

  • 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 Florida, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
  • 3.Best value: University of Florida offers data analytics education at $4,477/year with 95% graduation rate
  • 4.25 accredited Data Analytics programs analyzed using IPEDS 2024 completion data

Best Data Analytics Programs - Top 10 Most Affordable

🥇

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater, MAPublic

Bridgewater State University's Data Analytics program is known for its comprehensive integration of statistical theory, programming proficiency, and real-world application within a supportive state university environment that emphasizes personalized attention and affordability.

Programs:Data Analytics Undergraduate C...MS in Computer Science with Da...+3 more
100.0
Score
$1K
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate

Bridgewater State University Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks Bridgewater State University as the #1 in data analytics degree program.

Bridgewater State University's Data Analytics program is housed within the Department of Computer Science and represents a advanced undergraduate program designed to meet the growing demand for data professionals. The BS in Data Analytics combines rigorous mathematical foundations with practical programming skills and statistical analysis techniques, preparing students to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets across various industries. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects and internship opportunities in the greater Boston area. As part of BSU's College of Science and Mathematics, the Data Analytics program benefits from strong interdisciplinary connections and modern computing facilities. Students gain proficiency in popular data analysis tools including Python, R, SQL, and various visualization platforms while developing critical thinking skills essential for data-driven decision making. The program's curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for immediate entry into the workforce or continuation to graduate studies.

Hakia Insight: Bridgewater State University graduates earn $5,500,065,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

Degree Programs

Data Analytics Undergraduate Certificate
not specifiedon-campus
Part-time: not specified
MS in Computer Science with Data Science Focus
not specifiedon-campus
Part-time: available
Master of Science in Computer Science
Variableon-campus
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
4 yearson-campus
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability
4 yearson-campus

Research Labs & Institutes

Dana Mohler-Faria Science and Mathematics Center

Scientific research with tissue culture, small mammal, aquatic and natural history facilities

Center for the Advancement of STEM Education (CASE)

K-12 STEM education and environmental science research

Watershed Access Lab

Environmental research including eel lifecycle studies and river health

Cyber Range

Hands-on cybersecurity training and real-world attack simulation

Location Advantages

  • Proximity to Boston's thriving tech and biotech industries
  • Access to numerous internship and job opportunities in Massachusetts
  • Affordable public university education with quality programs

Industry Partners

ModernaBoston ScientificThermo Fisher ScientificDana-Farber Cancer InstituteMarine Biological LaboratorySkillsoftDraftKingsFormlabsHubSpotWayfairKMBO DiagnosticsPartners HealthCareMass General HospitalBoston UniversityNational Institute of Health

Career Outcomes

High placement rate in data-related fields placement rate
Top Employers:

Healthcare organizations, Financial services, Government agencies, Technology companies

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Haleh Khojasteh, Computer Science - Graduate Program Coordinator
  • Dr. Kenneth Adams, Molecular and cell biology

Certifications & Designations

NECHE AccreditedProgram aligned with industry data analytics standards

Admissions

GPA: 2.5 minimum for regular admission
Acceptance: Approximately 85%
🥈

Salem State University

Salem, MAPublic

Salem State University integrates data analytics training across business and psychology disciplines, offering STEM-designated programs with AACSB accreditation and the only MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program on Boston's North Shore.

Programs:Bachelors in Data AnalyticsAnalytics and Management Scien...+4 more
77.2
Score
$1K
Tuition/yr

Salem State University Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks Salem State University as the #2 in data analytics degree program.

Salem State offers data analytics education through experienced faculty like Fernando Colina who teaches forecasting, predictive analytics, and business intelligence, supported by specialized facilities including a Cyber Range and partnerships with industry leaders like Palo Alto Networks. The university provides a student-first approach with a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio and strong financial aid support.

Hakia Insight: Salem State University graduates earn $134,400, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

Degree Programs

Bachelors in Data Analytics
campus
Part-time: not available
Analytics and Management Science Concentration
4 yearson-campus
Information and Data Science Concentration
4 yearson-campus
MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
2-4 yearson-campus
Business Analytics Certificate
on-campus
Data Science Certificate
on-campus

Location Advantages

  • Boston's North Shore location
  • Access to diverse internship opportunities in healthcare, consulting, and technology sectors

Industry Partners

Linkage, Inc.i3 SolutionsWeston & SampsonPartners HealthcareBeverly HospitalCRICO StrategiesRandstad InternationalRapid7New England BiolabsEBSCO Information ServicesMercury Computer SystemsDynatrace Software

Career Outcomes

Top Employers:

Partners Healthcare, Beverly Hospital, Linkage, Inc., Rapid7

Common Roles:
human resourcesorganizational developmentchange managementdata analytics

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Ben Miller, Data Analysis for I/O Psychology
  • Dr. Dia Chatterjee, Research in Organizations
  • Dr. Hinda Sterling, Organization Consulting

Certifications & Designations

AACSB

Admissions

🥉

Miami Dade College

Miami, FLPublic

Addresses the talent gap created by the explosion of 'big data' and has agreements with major universities for accelerated master's degree pathways that can possibly be completed in one year

Programs:BS
37.8
Score
$2K
Tuition/yr

Miami Dade College Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks Miami Dade College as the #3 in data analytics degree program.

MDC's Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals who can identify, analyze, interpret and present the volumes of data that are critical to the success of organizations. Graduates will use machine learning, statistics, programming, and visualization tools to resolve complex business problems and make recommendations that effectively support tactical and strategic business objectives.

Hakia Insight: Miami Dade College leverages partnerships with Florida International University and Florida Atlantic University to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

Degree Programs

BS
hybrid

Location Advantages

  • Multiple campus locations including Hialeah, Homestead, Kendall, Medical, North, Padrón, West, Wolfson campuses
  • Partnership agreements with Florida International University, Florida Atlantic University, and University of Miami for accelerated master's degree completion

Industry Partners

Florida International UniversityFlorida Atlantic UniversityUniversity of Miami

Career Outcomes

Common Roles:
Data AnalystData Warehousing SpecialistDatabase ArchitectBusiness Intelligence Analyst

Admissions

#4

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NCPublic

UNC Charlotte's Data Analytics program is known for its unique integration of business acumen with technical data science skills, leveraging Charlotte's position as a major financial hub to provide students with industry exposure and career opportunities.

Programs:MSGraduate Certificate+2 more
23.3
Score
$4K
Tuition/yr
76%
Grad Rate

University of North Carolina at Charlotte Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Charlotte as the #4 in data analytics degree program.

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte's Data Analytics program is housed within the College of Computing and Informatics and represents one of the top-ranked undergraduate programs in the nation. The Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics combines rigorous technical training in statistics, programming, and machine learning with practical business applications, preparing students for the rapidly growing field of data analytics. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects, internships, and collaboration with industry partners in Charlotte's thriving financial and technology sectors.

Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Charlotte leverages partnerships with Bank of America and Wells Fargo to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

Degree Programs

MS
15 months averageon-campus
Graduate Certificate
on-campus
PhD
on-campus
BS
on-campus

Research Labs & Institutes

Center for Computational Intelligence

Machine learning and artificial intelligence applications

Data Science Initiative

Cross-disciplinary data science research and applications

Location Advantages

  • Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the US, providing extensive internship and job opportunities
  • Growing tech hub with numerous startups and established companies requiring data analytics talent

Industry Partners

Bank of AmericaWells FargoLowe's Companies

Career Outcomes

90% within 6 months placement rate
Top Employers:

Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's Companies, Duke Energy, Honeywell

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Zbigniew Ras, Data mining and machine learning
  • Dr. Taghi Khoshgoftaar, Software engineering and data quality

Certifications & Designations

ABET Accredited (College of Computing and Informatics)SACSCOC Accredited

Admissions

GPA: 3.0 minimum
Acceptance: 65%
#5

University of Florida

Gainesville, FLPublic

The University of Florida's Data Analytics programs uniquely combine access to one of the world's most powerful academic supercomputers (HiPerGator) with interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, statistics, business, and domain-specific applications in a comprehensive research university setting.

Programs:BSMS+1 more
22.4
Score
$4K
Tuition/yr
95%
Grad Rate
Visit
program page

University of Florida Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of Florida as the #5 in data analytics degree program.

The University of Florida's Data Analytics programs are housed within the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and represent a comprehensive approach to data science education. The Bachelor of Science in Data Science, launched in 2019, was one of the first dedicated undergraduate data science programs in the nation and integrates statistics, computer science, and domain-specific applications. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students for the rapidly evolving data analytics landscape through interdisciplinary coursework and hands-on projects. At the graduate level, UF offers multiple pathways for data analytics education, including specialized master's programs and doctoral research opportunities. The programs leverage the university's strengths across multiple colleges, including the College of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the Warrington College of Business. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art computing facilities, including the HiPerGator supercomputer, one of the most powerful academic supercomputers in the world.

Hakia Insight: With a 30% acceptance rate, University of Florida's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.

Degree Programs

BS
4 yearson-campus
MS
10 monthson-campus
MS
10 monthsonline

Research Labs & Institutes

Machine Learning and Sensing Lab

IoT, sensor networks, and ML applications

Computational Neuroengineering Lab

Brain-computer interfaces and neural data analysis

Data Mining and Machine Learning Lab

Big data analytics and pattern recognition

Center for Computable Genomics

Genomic data analysis and bioinformatics

Location Advantages

  • Access to Innovation Square technology hub in downtown Gainesville
  • Proximity to major Florida tech centers in Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville
  • Strong alumni network throughout the Southeast technology sector

Industry Partners

MicrosoftNVIDIALockheed MartinAccenture

Career Outcomes

95% within 6 months placement rate
Top Employers:

Microsoft, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, Accenture, Harris Corporation

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Jose Principe, Machine Learning and Signal Processing
  • Dr. Alper Bozkurt, IoT and Sensor Networks
  • Dr. Daisy Zhe Wang, Database Systems and Data Mining
  • Dr. Tamer Kahveci, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

Certifications & Designations

ABET Accredited (Engineering programs)SACSCOC AccreditedMember of Computing Accreditation Commission

Admissions

GPA: 3.5 minimum for competitive admission
Acceptance: 30% overall university
#6

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FLPublic

UNF's Data Analytics program is known for its strong emphasis on practical, project-based learning combined with close industry partnerships in Jacksonville's diverse business ecosystem, particularly in logistics, healthcare, and financial services.

Programs:Bachelor of Science in Computi...Master of Science in Business ...+1 more
21.3
Score
$4K
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad Rate

University of North Florida Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of North Florida as the #6 in data analytics degree program.

The University of North Florida's Data Analytics program is housed within the College of Computing, Engineering & Construction and offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science degree that combines statistical analysis, computer programming, and business intelligence. The program is designed to prepare students for the growing field of data science by providing hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies including R, Python, SQL, Tableau, and various machine learning frameworks. UNF's program emphasizes practical application through project-based learning and real-world case studies, preparing graduates to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets across various industries. The program benefits from UNF's location in Jacksonville, Florida's largest city, which provides numerous internship and career opportunities with major corporations, healthcare systems, financial institutions, and logistics companies. Students gain experience working with both structured and unstructured data, learning to communicate findings effectively to stakeholders, and developing the critical thinking skills necessary to solve complex business problems through data-driven decision making.

Hakia Insight: University of North Florida leverages partnerships with CSX Corporation and Baptist Health to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

Degree Programs

Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Sciences with Data Science concentration
4 yearson-campus
Part-time: not specified
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)
not specifiednot specified
Part-time: not specified
Master of Science in Accounting and Data Analytics (MSADA)
not specifiednot specified
Part-time: not specified

Research Labs & Institutes

Data Science Research Lab

Machine learning applications and business analytics

Center for Data Analytics

Community partnerships and applied research projects

Location Advantages

  • Jacksonville financial services and fintech growth
  • Regional logistics and supply chain industry
  • Defense and government contracting presence

Industry Partners

CSX CorporationBaptist HealthVyStar Credit UnionFidelity National Financial

Career Outcomes

Common Roles:
Data ScientistData Analyst

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Karthikeyan Umapathy, Machine learning and data mining
  • Dr. Shervin Rahimi, Statistical modeling and business analytics

Certifications & Designations

ABET Accredited (College of Computing, Engineering & Construction)SACSCOC Accredited

Admissions

GPA: 3.0 minimum
Acceptance: 71%
#7

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FLPublic

UCF's Data Analytics programs stand out for their integration of business acumen with technical expertise, preparing graduates who can bridge the gap between data science and strategic decision-making in enterprise environments.

Programs:MSPhD
20.5
Score
$4K
Tuition/yr
93%
Grad Rate
Visit
program page

University of Central Florida Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of Central Florida as the #7 in data analytics degree program.

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers highly-ranked Data Analytics programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels, positioning itself as a leader in data science education. The undergraduate program, ranking #2 nationally, provides a comprehensive foundation in statistical analysis, programming, and business intelligence, while the graduate program, ranking #5, offers advanced specializations in machine learning, big data technologies, and predictive analytics. UCF's programs emphasize hands-on experience through real-world projects, industry partnerships, and advanced research opportunities in one of the nation's largest and most innovative universities.

Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida graduates earn $7,200,085,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

Degree Programs

MS
4-5 semesterson-campus
PhD
on-campus

Research Labs & Institutes

Center for Research in Computer Vision

Computer vision and machine learning applications

Institute for Simulation and Training

Modeling, simulation, and data-driven training systems

Big Data Analytics Lab

Large-scale data processing and predictive analytics

Location Advantages

  • Central Florida's growing tech corridor with numerous analytics companies
  • Proximity to major theme parks providing unique customer analytics opportunities
  • Access to diverse industries including aerospace, healthcare, and tourism for internships

Industry Partners

Walt Disney WorldLockheed MartinAdventHealthHarris Corporation

Career Outcomes

88% within 6 months placement rate
Top Employers:

Walt Disney World, Lockheed Martin, AdventHealth, IBM, Accenture

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Mubarak Shah, Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition
  • Dr. Xin Li, Big Data Analytics and Machine Learning
  • Dr. Yan Solihin, High-Performance Computing

Certifications & Designations

ABET Accredited Computer Science programsSACSCOC Regional AccreditationNSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

Admissions

GPA: 3.0 minimum for undergraduate, 3.2 for graduate
Acceptance: 44%
#8

University of South Florida

Tampa, FLPublic

The MS in AIBA is a STEM-designated program with highly competitive admission (only 250 students admitted annually), featuring industry-driven curriculum taught by faculty from top universities and enhanced by free bootcamps, certifications, and a dedicated industry advisory board.

Programs:BS Information Science with Da...MS in Artificial Intelligence ...
19.5
Score
$5K
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad Rate

University of South Florida Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of South Florida as the #8 in data analytics degree program.

The University of South Florida offers data analytics programs through both an undergraduate Information Science B.S. with Data Science and Analytics Concentration and a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Business Analytics. These programs prepare students for careers in data science, business analytics, and AI/ML engineering across various industries.

Hakia Insight: University of South Florida graduates earn $112,500, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

Degree Programs

BS Information Science with Data Science and Analytics Concentration
4 yearson-campus with online options
MS in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Business Analytics
on-campus

Location Advantages

  • Access to diverse industries including aerospace, banking, finance, and healthcare
  • Strong corporate presence in Tampa Bay area

Career Outcomes

Top Employers:

Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Tesla, Deloitte

Common Roles:
data scientistdata analystAI/ML engineerBI developer

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Alan R. Hevner, Distinguished University Professor and AAAS Fellow
  • Dr. Wolfgang S. Jank, Anderson Professor and advisor, Center for Analytics and Creativity
  • Dr. Joni L. Jones, Academic Director, MS in BAIS program and Florida Center for Cybersecurity

Admissions

#9

San Diego State University

San Diego, CAPublic

SDSU's Big Data Analytics program uniquely combines transdisciplinary coursework spanning technology, business, and social sciences with both on-campus and online delivery options, featuring extensive elective choices across multiple departments and a highly-ranked online format completable in 16 months.

Programs:Master of Science in Big Data ...Master of Science in Big Data ...
18.0
Score
$6K
Tuition/yr
83%
Grad Rate

San Diego State University Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks San Diego State University as the #9 in data analytics degree program.

San Diego State University's Master of Science in Big Data Analytics is a transdisciplinary 30-unit graduate program that combines technology, business, engineering, science, and social science. The program features a dual-core approach with required courses in Big Data Science and Analytics Platforms, Python Scripting, Enterprise Data Management, and Machine Learning Engineering. Students can choose from extensive electives spanning computer science, geography, linguistics, business analytics, public health, and cybersecurity. The program offers both Plan A (thesis) and Plan B (comprehensive exam) culminating experiences, with a capstone seminar requirement. Available both on-campus and fully online through SDSU Global Campus, the online version can be completed in just 16 months and is ranked #21 among online data analytics programs by TechGuide. The program serves professionals across diverse fields including business analytics, GIS, digital humanities, bioinformatics, IT, and public health.

Hakia Insight: San Diego State University's Metabolism of Cities Living Lab (MOC-LLAB) and Data-informed Construction Engineering (DiCE) research lab position students at the forefront of data analytics research.

Degree Programs

Master of Science in Big Data Analytics
16 months minimumon-campus
Part-time: not specified
Master of Science in Big Data Analytics Online
16 months minimumonline
Part-time: available

Research Labs & Institutes

Center for Human Dynamics in the Mobile Age (HDMA)

Human dynamics, social media, big data, visualization

Metabolism of Cities Living Lab (MOC-LLAB)

UN Sustainable Development Goals localization

Data-informed Construction Engineering (DiCE) research lab

AI, IoT, cyber-physical systems in construction

Spacecraft Platform for Astronautics & Celestial Emulation (SPACE) laboratory

Space operations sensing, guidance, dynamics, and control

Career Outcomes

Common Roles:
Business AnalyticsMarketingGeographic Information Systems (GIS)Digital Humanities

Notable Faculty

  • Ming-Hsiang Tsou, Human dynamics, social media analytics, big data visualization
  • Gabriela Fernandez, Urban metabolism, smart cities, data science for sustainability
  • Reza Akhavian, AI, robotics, IoT in construction engineering
  • Ahmad Bani Younes, Aerospace engineering, spacecraft guidance and control

Admissions

#10

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FLPublic

FSU's data analytics programs are STEM-qualified and provide cross-disciplinary training that bridges functional business areas, with industry engagement to keep curriculum relevant and extensive networking opportunities with industry executives.

Programs:Minor in Business AnalyticsMS in Business Analytics+4 more
17.5
Score
$5K
Tuition/yr
Visit
program page

Florida State University Data Analytics Program Overview

Hakia ranks Florida State University as the #10 in data analytics degree program.

Florida State University offers data analytics programs through two departments: the Business Analytics program in the Herbert Wertheim College of Business and an Interdisciplinary Data Science program. The programs focus on machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, and statistics with cross-disciplinary applications.

Hakia Insight: Florida State University graduates earn $144,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

Degree Programs

Minor in Business Analytics
on-campus
MS in Business Analytics
1 yearon-campus
MS in Management Information Systems
on-campus
Combined BS-MIS/MS-MIS
on-campus
PhD with major in Management Information Systems
on-campus
Interdisciplinary Data Science Master's
on-campus

Career Outcomes

Common Roles:
Data ScientistBusiness Analyst

Notable Faculty

  • Dr. Noyan Ilk, MS-BA Program Coordinator and Department Chair
  • Dr. Xinlin Tang, Ph.D. with major in MIS Program Coordinator
  • Dr. Darren Brooks, MBA Program Coordinator

Certifications & Designations

AACSB InternationalSTEM designation

Admissions

Best Data Analytics Programs - Top 10 Most Affordable, Complete Program Data

  1. #1. Bridgewater State University — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks Bridgewater State University's data analytics program #1. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Bridgewater, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $910/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 100.0

    What makes Bridgewater State University stand out: Bridgewater State University's Data Analytics program is known for its comprehensive integration of statistical theory, programming proficiency, and real-world application within a supportive state university environment that emphasizes personalized attention and affordability.

    Hakia Insight: Bridgewater State University graduates earn $5,500,065,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

    Program Overview: Bridgewater State University's Data Analytics program is housed within the Department of Computer Science and represents a advanced undergraduate program designed to meet the growing demand for data professionals. The BS in Data Analytics combines rigorous mathematical foundations with practical programming skills and statistical analysis techniques, preparing students to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets across various industries. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects and internship opportunities in the greater Boston area. As part of BSU's College of Science and Mathematics, the Data Analytics program benefits from strong interdisciplinary connections and modern computing facilities. Students gain proficiency in popular data analysis tools including Python, R, SQL, and various visualization platforms while developing critical thinking skills essential for data-driven decision making. The program's curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for immediate entry into the workforce or continuation to graduate studies.

    Degree Programs: Data Analytics Undergraduate Certificate (not specified); MS in Computer Science with Data Science Focus (not specified); Master of Science in Computer Science (Variable); Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability (4 years)

    Research Labs: Dana Mohler-Faria Science and Mathematics Center - Scientific research with tissue culture, small mammal, aquatic and natural history facilities; Center for the Advancement of STEM Education (CASE) - K-12 STEM education and environmental science research; Watershed Access Lab - Environmental research including eel lifecycle studies and river health; Cyber Range - Hands-on cybersecurity training and real-world attack simulation

    Industry Partners: Moderna, Boston Scientific, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Marine Biological Laboratory, Skillsoft, DraftKings, Formlabs, HubSpot, Wayfair, KMBO Diagnostics, Partners HealthCare, Mass General Hospital, Boston University, National Institute of Health

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: High placement rate in data-related fields | Top Employers: Healthcare organizations, Financial services, Government agencies, Technology companies

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Haleh Khojasteh (Computer Science - Graduate Program Coordinator); Dr. Kenneth Adams (Molecular and cell biology)

    Admissions: GPA: 2.5 minimum for regular admission | Acceptance Rate: Approximately 85%

    Accreditations: NECHE Accredited, Program aligned with industry data analytics standards

  2. #2. Salem State University — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks Salem State University's data analytics program #2. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Salem, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $910/year | Score: 77.2

    What makes Salem State University stand out: Salem State University integrates data analytics training across business and psychology disciplines, offering STEM-designated programs with AACSB accreditation and the only MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program on Boston's North Shore.

    Hakia Insight: Salem State University graduates earn $134,400, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

    Program Overview: Salem State offers data analytics education through experienced faculty like Fernando Colina who teaches forecasting, predictive analytics, and business intelligence, supported by specialized facilities including a Cyber Range and partnerships with industry leaders like Palo Alto Networks. The university provides a student-first approach with a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio and strong financial aid support.

    Degree Programs: Bachelors in Data Analytics; Analytics and Management Science Concentration (4 years); Information and Data Science Concentration (4 years); MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (2-4 years); Business Analytics Certificate; Data Science Certificate

    Industry Partners: Linkage, Inc., i3 Solutions, Weston & Sampson, Partners Healthcare, Beverly Hospital, CRICO Strategies, Randstad International, Rapid7, New England Biolabs, EBSCO Information Services, Mercury Computer Systems, Dynatrace Software

    Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Partners Healthcare, Beverly Hospital, Linkage, Inc., Rapid7 | Common Roles: human resources, organizational development, change management, data analytics, leadership development

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Ben Miller (Data Analysis for I/O Psychology); Dr. Dia Chatterjee (Research in Organizations); Dr. Hinda Sterling (Organization Consulting)

    Admissions:

    Accreditations: AACSB

  3. #3. Miami Dade College — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks Miami Dade College's data analytics program #3. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Miami, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,987/year | Score: 37.8

    What makes Miami Dade College stand out: Addresses the talent gap created by the explosion of 'big data' and has agreements with major universities for accelerated master's degree pathways that can possibly be completed in one year

    Hakia Insight: Miami Dade College leverages partnerships with Florida International University and Florida Atlantic University to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

    Program Overview: MDC's Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals who can identify, analyze, interpret and present the volumes of data that are critical to the success of organizations. Graduates will use machine learning, statistics, programming, and visualization tools to resolve complex business problems and make recommendations that effectively support tactical and strategic business objectives.

    Degree Programs: BS

    Industry Partners: Florida International University, Florida Atlantic University, University of Miami

    Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Data Analyst, Data Warehousing Specialist, Database Architect, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Scientist

    Admissions:

  4. #4. University of North Carolina at Charlotte — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Charlotte's data analytics program #4. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Charlotte, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,812/year | Graduation Rate: 76% | Score: 23.3

    What makes University of North Carolina at Charlotte stand out: UNC Charlotte's Data Analytics program is known for its unique integration of business acumen with technical data science skills, leveraging Charlotte's position as a major financial hub to provide students with industry exposure and career opportunities.

    Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Charlotte leverages partnerships with Bank of America and Wells Fargo to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

    Program Overview: The University of North Carolina at Charlotte's Data Analytics program is housed within the College of Computing and Informatics and represents one of the top-ranked undergraduate programs in the nation. The Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics combines rigorous technical training in statistics, programming, and machine learning with practical business applications, preparing students for the rapidly growing field of data analytics. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects, internships, and collaboration with industry partners in Charlotte's thriving financial and technology sectors.

    Degree Programs: MS (15 months average); Graduate Certificate; PhD; BS

    Research Labs: Center for Computational Intelligence - Machine learning and artificial intelligence applications; Data Science Initiative - Cross-disciplinary data science research and applications

    Industry Partners: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's Companies

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 90% within 6 months | Top Employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's Companies, Duke Energy, Honeywell

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Zbigniew Ras (Data mining and machine learning); Dr. Taghi Khoshgoftaar (Software engineering and data quality)

    Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum | Acceptance Rate: 65%

    Accreditations: ABET Accredited (College of Computing and Informatics), SACSCOC Accredited

  5. #5. University of Florida — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks University of Florida's data analytics program #5. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Gainesville, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,477/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 22.4

    What makes University of Florida stand out: The University of Florida's Data Analytics programs uniquely combine access to one of the world's most powerful academic supercomputers (HiPerGator) with interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, statistics, business, and domain-specific applications in a comprehensive research university setting.

    Hakia Insight: With a 30% acceptance rate, University of Florida's data analytics program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.

    Program Overview: The University of Florida's Data Analytics programs are housed within the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and represent a comprehensive approach to data science education. The Bachelor of Science in Data Science, launched in 2019, was one of the first dedicated undergraduate data science programs in the nation and integrates statistics, computer science, and domain-specific applications. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students for the rapidly evolving data analytics landscape through interdisciplinary coursework and hands-on projects. At the graduate level, UF offers multiple pathways for data analytics education, including specialized master's programs and doctoral research opportunities. The programs leverage the university's strengths across multiple colleges, including the College of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the Warrington College of Business. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art computing facilities, including the HiPerGator supercomputer, one of the most powerful academic supercomputers in the world.

    Degree Programs: BS (4 years); MS (10 months); MS (10 months)

    Research Labs: Machine Learning and Sensing Lab - IoT, sensor networks, and ML applications; Computational Neuroengineering Lab - Brain-computer interfaces and neural data analysis; Data Mining and Machine Learning Lab - Big data analytics and pattern recognition; Center for Computable Genomics - Genomic data analysis and bioinformatics

    Industry Partners: Microsoft, NVIDIA, Lockheed Martin, Accenture

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% within 6 months | Top Employers: Microsoft, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, Accenture, Harris Corporation

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Jose Principe (Machine Learning and Signal Processing); Dr. Alper Bozkurt (IoT and Sensor Networks); Dr. Daisy Zhe Wang (Database Systems and Data Mining); Dr. Tamer Kahveci (Bioinformatics and Computational Biology)

    Admissions: GPA: 3.5 minimum for competitive admission | Acceptance Rate: 30% overall university

    Accreditations: ABET Accredited (Engineering programs), SACSCOC Accredited, Member of Computing Accreditation Commission

  6. #6. University of North Florida — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks University of North Florida's data analytics program #6. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Jacksonville, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,996/year | Graduation Rate: 82% | Score: 21.3

    What makes University of North Florida stand out: UNF's Data Analytics program is known for its strong emphasis on practical, project-based learning combined with close industry partnerships in Jacksonville's diverse business ecosystem, particularly in logistics, healthcare, and financial services.

    Hakia Insight: University of North Florida leverages partnerships with CSX Corporation and Baptist Health to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

    Program Overview: The University of North Florida's Data Analytics program is housed within the College of Computing, Engineering & Construction and offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science degree that combines statistical analysis, computer programming, and business intelligence. The program is designed to prepare students for the growing field of data science by providing hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies including R, Python, SQL, Tableau, and various machine learning frameworks. UNF's program emphasizes practical application through project-based learning and real-world case studies, preparing graduates to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets across various industries. The program benefits from UNF's location in Jacksonville, Florida's largest city, which provides numerous internship and career opportunities with major corporations, healthcare systems, financial institutions, and logistics companies. Students gain experience working with both structured and unstructured data, learning to communicate findings effectively to stakeholders, and developing the critical thinking skills necessary to solve complex business problems through data-driven decision making.

    Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Sciences with Data Science concentration (4 years); Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) (not specified); Master of Science in Accounting and Data Analytics (MSADA) (not specified)

    Research Labs: Data Science Research Lab - Machine learning applications and business analytics; Center for Data Analytics - Community partnerships and applied research projects

    Industry Partners: CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, VyStar Credit Union, Fidelity National Financial

    Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Data Analyst

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Karthikeyan Umapathy (Machine learning and data mining); Dr. Shervin Rahimi (Statistical modeling and business analytics)

    Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum | Acceptance Rate: 71%

    Accreditations: ABET Accredited (College of Computing, Engineering & Construction), SACSCOC Accredited

  7. #7. University of Central Florida — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks University of Central Florida's data analytics program #7. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Orlando, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,478/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 20.5

    What makes University of Central Florida stand out: UCF's Data Analytics programs stand out for their integration of business acumen with technical expertise, preparing graduates who can bridge the gap between data science and strategic decision-making in enterprise environments.

    Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida graduates earn $7,200,085,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

    Program Overview: The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers highly-ranked Data Analytics programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels, positioning itself as a leader in data science education. The undergraduate program, ranking #2 nationally, provides a comprehensive foundation in statistical analysis, programming, and business intelligence, while the graduate program, ranking #5, offers advanced specializations in machine learning, big data technologies, and predictive analytics. UCF's programs emphasize hands-on experience through real-world projects, industry partnerships, and advanced research opportunities in one of the nation's largest and most innovative universities.

    Degree Programs: MS (4-5 semesters); PhD

    Research Labs: Center for Research in Computer Vision - Computer vision and machine learning applications; Institute for Simulation and Training - Modeling, simulation, and data-driven training systems; Big Data Analytics Lab - Large-scale data processing and predictive analytics

    Industry Partners: Walt Disney World, Lockheed Martin, AdventHealth, Harris Corporation

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 88% within 6 months | Top Employers: Walt Disney World, Lockheed Martin, AdventHealth, IBM, Accenture, Deloitte

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Mubarak Shah (Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition); Dr. Xin Li (Big Data Analytics and Machine Learning); Dr. Yan Solihin (High-Performance Computing)

    Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum for undergraduate, 3.2 for graduate | Acceptance Rate: 44%

    Accreditations: ABET Accredited Computer Science programs, SACSCOC Regional Accreditation, NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

  8. #8. University of South Florida — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks University of South Florida's data analytics program #8. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Tampa, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,559/year | Graduation Rate: 85% | Score: 19.5

    What makes University of South Florida stand out: The MS in AIBA is a STEM-designated program with highly competitive admission (only 250 students admitted annually), featuring industry-driven curriculum taught by faculty from top universities and enhanced by free bootcamps, certifications, and a dedicated industry advisory board.

    Hakia Insight: University of South Florida graduates earn $112,500, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

    Program Overview: The University of South Florida offers data analytics programs through both an undergraduate Information Science B.S. with Data Science and Analytics Concentration and a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Business Analytics. These programs prepare students for careers in data science, business analytics, and AI/ML engineering across various industries.

    Degree Programs: BS Information Science with Data Science and Analytics Concentration (4 years); MS in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Business Analytics

    Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Tesla, Deloitte, JP Morgan, Disney, Verizon | Common Roles: data scientist, data analyst, AI/ML engineer, BI developer, data engineer, business analyst

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Alan R. Hevner (Distinguished University Professor and AAAS Fellow); Dr. Wolfgang S. Jank (Anderson Professor and advisor, Center for Analytics and Creativity); Dr. Joni L. Jones (Academic Director, MS in BAIS program and Florida Center for Cybersecurity)

    Admissions:

  9. #9. San Diego State University — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks San Diego State University's data analytics program #9. Delivery: on-campus. Location: San Diego, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,742/year | Graduation Rate: 83% | Score: 18.0

    What makes San Diego State University stand out: SDSU's Big Data Analytics program uniquely combines transdisciplinary coursework spanning technology, business, and social sciences with both on-campus and online delivery options, featuring extensive elective choices across multiple departments and a highly-ranked online format completable in 16 months.

    Hakia Insight: San Diego State University's Metabolism of Cities Living Lab (MOC-LLAB) and Data-informed Construction Engineering (DiCE) research lab position students at the forefront of data analytics research.

    Program Overview: San Diego State University's Master of Science in Big Data Analytics is a transdisciplinary 30-unit graduate program that combines technology, business, engineering, science, and social science. The program features a dual-core approach with required courses in Big Data Science and Analytics Platforms, Python Scripting, Enterprise Data Management, and Machine Learning Engineering. Students can choose from extensive electives spanning computer science, geography, linguistics, business analytics, public health, and cybersecurity. The program offers both Plan A (thesis) and Plan B (comprehensive exam) culminating experiences, with a capstone seminar requirement. Available both on-campus and fully online through SDSU Global Campus, the online version can be completed in just 16 months and is ranked #21 among online data analytics programs by TechGuide. The program serves professionals across diverse fields including business analytics, GIS, digital humanities, bioinformatics, IT, and public health.

    Degree Programs: Master of Science in Big Data Analytics (16 months minimum); Master of Science in Big Data Analytics Online (16 months minimum)

    Research Labs: Center for Human Dynamics in the Mobile Age (HDMA) - Human dynamics, social media, big data, visualization; Metabolism of Cities Living Lab (MOC-LLAB) - UN Sustainable Development Goals localization; Data-informed Construction Engineering (DiCE) research lab - AI, IoT, cyber-physical systems in construction; Spacecraft Platform for Astronautics & Celestial Emulation (SPACE) laboratory - Space operations sensing, guidance, dynamics, and control

    Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Business Analytics, Marketing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Digital Humanities, Bioinformatics, Data Science, Information Technology (IT), Social and Behavioral Science, Public Health, Sustainability

    Notable Faculty: Ming-Hsiang Tsou (Human dynamics, social media analytics, big data visualization); Gabriela Fernandez (Urban metabolism, smart cities, data science for sustainability); Reza Akhavian (AI, robotics, IoT in construction engineering); Ahmad Bani Younes (Aerospace engineering, spacecraft guidance and control)

    Admissions:

  10. #10. Florida State University — Data Analytics

    Hakia ranks Florida State University's data analytics program #10. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Tallahassee, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,640/year | Score: 17.5

    What makes Florida State University stand out: FSU's data analytics programs are STEM-qualified and provide cross-disciplinary training that bridges functional business areas, with industry engagement to keep curriculum relevant and extensive networking opportunities with industry executives.

    Hakia Insight: Florida State University graduates earn $144,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on data analytics curriculum.

    Program Overview: Florida State University offers data analytics programs through two departments: the Business Analytics program in the Herbert Wertheim College of Business and an Interdisciplinary Data Science program. The programs focus on machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, and statistics with cross-disciplinary applications.

    Degree Programs: Minor in Business Analytics; MS in Business Analytics (1 year); MS in Management Information Systems; Combined BS-MIS/MS-MIS; PhD with major in Management Information Systems; Interdisciplinary Data Science Master's

    Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Business Analyst

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Noyan Ilk (MS-BA Program Coordinator and Department Chair); Dr. Xinlin Tang (Ph.D. with major in MIS Program Coordinator); Dr. Darren Brooks (MBA Program Coordinator)

    Admissions:

    Accreditations: AACSB International, STEM designation

Best Data Analytics Programs - Compare Top 5 Most Affordable

SchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateScore
#1 Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater, MA
Public
$910
97%
100.0/100
#2 Salem State University
Salem, MA
Public
$910
N/A
77.2/100
#3 Miami Dade College
Miami, FL
Public
$1,987
N/A
37.8/100
#4 University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC
Public
$3,812
76%
23.3/100
#5 University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
Public
$4,477
95%
22.4/100

Data from IPEDS 2024. Tuition shown is in-state for public schools.

Top 25 Most Affordable Data Analytics Programs 2026

RankProgram & SchoolDeliveryAnnual TuitionGrad RateMedian SalaryHakia Score
#1Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater, MA · Public
$91097%100.0
#2Salem State University
Salem, MA · Public
$91077.2
#3Miami Dade College
Miami, FL · Public
$1,98737.8
#4University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC · Public
$3,81276%23.3
#5University of Florida
Gainesville, FL · Public
$4,47795%22.4
#6University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL · Public
$3,99682%21.3
#7University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL · Public
$4,47893%20.5
#8University of South Florida
Tampa, FL · Public
$4,55985%19.5
#9San Diego State University
San Diego, CA · Public
$5,74283%18.0
#10Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL · Public
$4,64017.5
#11Florida International University
Miami, FL · Public
$4,72117.0
#12California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA · Public
$5,742100%16.7
#13California State University-Long Beach
Long Beach, CA · Public
$5,74273%14.8
#14University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY · Public
$4,98014.7
#15North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC · Public
$6,53585%14.4
#16Brigham Young University
Provo, UT · Private
$6,49691%14.1
#17University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
Mayaguez, PR · Public
$5,02414.1
#18University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY · Public
$7,07095%13.8
#19California State University-East Bay
Hayward, CA · Public
$5,74213.4
#20The University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX · Public
$6,23913.0
#21University of Idaho
Moscow, ID · Public
$6,54083%12.7
#22Utah State University
Logan, UT · Public
$7,387100%12.5
#23Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN · Public
$7,53697%12.3
#24University of Houston
Houston, TX · Public
$8,68591%12.0
#25University of Houston-Downtown
Houston, TX · Public
$6,08064%11.7
#26CUNY Hunter College
New York, NY · Public
$6,93075%11.7
#27CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
New York, NY · Public
$6,93062%11.7
#28Farmingdale State College
Farmingdale, NY · Public
$7,07079%11.6
#29Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA · Public
$7,99799%11.5
#30University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR · Public
$7,66680%11.3
#31University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR · Public
$6,60011.3
#32South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD · Public
$7,773100%11.1
#33University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT · Public
$8,17572%10.6
#34University of North Texas
Denton, TX · Public
$8,31970%10.6
#35University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI · Public
$9,64483%10.5
#36Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA · Public
$7,29410.4
#37University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WI · Public
$7,11286%10.3
#38Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX · Public
$9,00384%10.3
#39Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA · Public
$8,03866%10.2
#40University of Maryland-Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD · Public
$9,23890%10.2
#41University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD · Public
$9,88984%10.1
#42Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS · Public
$6,12810.0
#43Iowa State University
Ames, IA · Public
$8,982100%9.9
#44University of California-Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA · Public
$11,83490%9.8
#45University of Georgia
Athens, GA · Public
$9,79095%9.7
#46University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA · Public
$9,01693%9.7
#47Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, MO · Public
$7,8129.7
#48Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL · Public
$9,79284%9.6
#49University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
La Crosse, WI · Public
$7,97492%9.6
#50Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Durant, OK · Public
$6,6009.6

Showing all 50 ranked programs.

True Cost Breakdown

The true cost of a Data Analytics degree extends beyond tuition. Understanding total cost of attendance helps you budget accurately and compare programs fairly. According to College Board, non-tuition expenses add $12,000-$25,000 annually to degree costs.

Full Cost Breakdown:

  • Tuition, $3,000-$15,000/year (in-state public) vs $30,000-$60,000/year (private)
  • Fees, $500-$3,000/year (technology, activity, health fees)
  • Books/Supplies, $500-$1,500/year. E-textbooks and open resources reduce costs
  • Housing, $8,000-$15,000/year. Off-campus often cheaper than dorms
  • Food, $3,000-$5,000/year. Meal plans vs. cooking varies widely
  • Transportation, $1,000-$3,000/year. Car-free campuses save significantly
  • Personal/Misc, $2,000-$4,000/year. Includes phone, entertainment, supplies

Cost-Saving Strategy: Use each school's Net Price Calculator for personalized estimates including financial aid. Sticker price rarely reflects actual cost.

In-State Tuition Strategies

Establishing in-state residency can reduce Data Analytics degree costs by $40,000-$80,000 over four years. Each state has different requirements, but most allow residency establishment within 12 months.

Common Residency Requirements:

  • Physical presence, 12 consecutive months living in state before enrollment
  • Intent to remain. Driver's license, voter registration, vehicle registration in state
  • Financial independence. If under 24, may need parents to establish residency too
  • Employment. Some states require working in-state during residency year

Gap Year Strategy: Work in your target state for a year before starting college. You'll earn money, establish residency, and save tens of thousands on tuition. Many tech hubs (Austin, Seattle, Denver) offer good entry-level tech jobs.

Regional Agreements: Some states offer reduced tuition through compacts like WUE (Western Undergraduate Exchange) or MSEP (Midwest Student Exchange), 150% of in-state tuition.

Save with Transfer Credits

Starting at a community college before transferring can reduce Data Analytics degree costs by $20,000-$40,000. According to Community College Research Center, transfer students who complete associate's degrees before transferring achieve similar graduation rates to direct admits at four-year schools.

Transfer Pathway Strategy:

  • Complete 60+ credits at community college (~$8,000-$15,000 total)
  • Target transfer agreements. Many states guarantee admission to public universities for CC graduates
  • Focus on transferable courses. General education and intro CS courses transfer most reliably
  • Maintain 3.5+ GPA. Transfer admission is often more competitive than freshman admission

Transfer-Friendly Universities:

  • UC System. TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) with CA community colleges
  • UT Austin. CAP program guarantees transfer after one year at other UT campuses
  • Arizona State. MAPP agreements with Maricopa Community Colleges
  • Many state schools, 2+2 articulation agreements guarantee credit transfer

Hidden Costs to Watch

Beyond published tuition, Data Analytics programs have hidden costs that can add $5,000-$15,000 to your degree. Identifying these upfront prevents budget surprises.

Commonly Overlooked Expenses:

  • Lab fees, $200-$500/semester for specialized courses (networking, hardware, security labs)
  • Software licenses. Some professional tools (MATLAB, specialized IDEs) require purchase. Check if school provides
  • Laptop requirements. Many programs mandate specific specs; $1,000-$2,000 if you need new hardware
  • Certification exam fees, $200-$500 per attempt for industry certs (AWS, CompTIA)
  • Professional memberships, $50-$200/year for ACM, IEEE (often discounted for students)
  • Interview travel, $500-$2,000 for senior-year job interviews if companies don't cover

Questions to Ask Admissions:

  • What fees aren't included in published tuition?
  • Are required textbooks and software included?
  • What laptop specifications are required?
  • Are there additional costs for capstone or thesis credits?

Graduate Debt-Free Strategies

Graduating debt-free from a Data Analytics program is achievable with strategic planning. According to TICAS, 30% of bachelor's graduates complete their degrees without student loans. Here's how to join them.

Debt-Free Strategies:

  • Community college start. Complete 2 years for ~$7,000 vs $30,000+ at 4-year schools
  • Work part-time, 15-20 hours/week at $15-20/hour covers living expenses. Campus IT jobs are ideal
  • Employer tuition programs. Companies like Starbucks, Amazon, and Target offer full tuition coverage
  • AmeriCorps/Peace Corps. Earn $6,500+ education award per year of service
  • Tuition payment plans. Interest-free monthly payments avoid loans for manageable amounts

Income While in School:

  • Paid internships, ${programName} interns earn $4,000-$8,000/month in summer
  • Freelance work. Web development, tutoring, or technical writing at $25-75/hour
  • Teaching/tutoring. Campus tutoring centers pay $12-20/hour
  • Research positions, $15-25/hour working with faculty
$68,000
Starting Salary
$95,000
Mid-Career
+25%
Job Growth
31,200
Annual Openings

Career Paths

Business Intelligence Analyst

+25%

Develop dashboards and reports to support business decision-making

Median Salary:$72,000

Marketing Analyst

+19%

Analyze customer data and campaign performance to optimize marketing strategies

Median Salary:$65,000

Choosing Your Affordable Data Analytics Program

Public In-State University

  • You qualify for in-state tuition rates
  • Want traditional campus experience at low cost
  • Prefer face-to-face instruction and networking
  • Have access to state financial aid programs

Online Program

  • Need flexible scheduling for work or family
  • Want to avoid housing and commuting costs
  • Comfortable with self-directed learning
  • Seeking accelerated degree completion

Community College Transfer

  • Want the lowest possible total cost
  • Need time to improve academic credentials
  • Uncertain about committing to 4-year program initially
  • Have guaranteed transfer agreements available

Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Data Analytics Programs

Are affordable data analytics programs lower quality than expensive ones?
No, program cost doesn't determine quality. Many affordable public universities offer the same curriculum, faculty qualifications, and career outcomes as expensive private institutions. Focus on accreditation, employment rates, and employer recognition rather than tuition price.
How much can I save with an online data analytics degree?
Online programs cost 30-40% less than traditional on-campus degrees. When including savings on housing, commuting, and campus fees, students can save $15,000 to $25,000 annually. Total four-year savings often exceed $60,000.
What financial aid is available for data analytics students?
Data analytics students can access federal Pell Grants (up to $7,395 annually), federal student loans, state grants, merit scholarships, and STEM-specific awards. Many employers also offer tuition reimbursement for working professionals pursuing analytics degrees.
Should I choose community college transfer to save money?
The 2+2 transfer model can reduce total degree costs by $20,000 to $30,000. Complete general education and math prerequisites at community college, then transfer to complete your data analytics specialization. Ensure transfer agreements exist before enrolling.
Do affordable programs have good job placement rates?
Many affordable data analytics programs achieve 85-95% employment rates within six months of graduation. Public universities often have strong regional employer relationships and career services that rival expensive private institutions.

How We Rank Data Analytics Degree Programs

Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024

Bridgewater State University tops our list of 50 most affordable programs. We fold federal graduation, admissions, salary, and tuition figures into a single 0 to 100 score applied identically to every school. In-state tuition across the list spans $910 to $11,834.

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 have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

National salary data for data analytics graduates, factored into institutional scores based on 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 2024Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024National and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code MappingPrograms identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources and Methodology

Federal database of college costs, financial aid, and employment outcomes

National Center for Education Statistics institutional data

Employment projections and salary data for data analysts

Official source for federal financial aid information and deadlines

Financial Aid Strategies for Data Analytics Students

Federal financial aid significantly reduces data analytics program costs for eligible students. The average Pell Grant provides $7,395 annually for low-income students, while federal student loans offer additional funding with favorable repayment terms. STEM-specific grants and scholarships can provide additional support for data analytics students.

Many universities offer merit-based scholarships specifically for data analytics and computer science students. These awards range from $2,000 to $10,000 annually and are renewable throughout the degree program. Students should research scholarships for women in tech and other demographic-specific opportunities that can substantially reduce program costs.

Work-study programs and graduate assistantships provide another avenue for reducing education costs. Many data analytics programs offer research assistant positions that provide tuition remission and stipends. These opportunities not only reduce costs but also provide valuable hands-on experience that enhances career prospects.

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.