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Drake University
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Des Moines, IAPrivate nonprofit
$101,860 median salary · 74% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 74% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $51,444 in-state tuition
- 18 graduates annually
On this page
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 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 2024 completion data
Best Data Analytics Programs - Top 10 Online
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Butler University
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Indianapolis, INPrivate nonprofit
$101,860 median salary · 80% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 80% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $46,570 in-state tuition
- 21 graduates annually
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Allegany College of Maryland
Associate's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Cumberland, MDPublic
$101,860 median salary · 40% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 40% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $8,640 in-state tuition
- 1 graduates annually
#4
Clarkson University
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Potsdam, NYPrivate nonprofit
$101,860 median salary · 75% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 75% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $58,058 in-state tuition
- 8 graduates annually
#5
Westcliff University
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Irvine, CAPrivate for-profit
$101,860 median salary · 62% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 62% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $17,520 in-state tuition
- 82 graduates annually
#6
Norwich University
Bachelor's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Northfield, VTPrivate nonprofit
$101,860 median salary · 60% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 60% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $46,860 in-state tuition
- 1 graduates annually
#7
Purdue University Global
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
West Lafayette, INPublic
$101,860 median salary · 50% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 50% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $10,080 in-state tuition
- 23 graduates annually
#8
University of Mississippi
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
University, MSPublic
$101,860 median salary · 72% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 72% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $9,612 in-state tuition
- 45 graduates annually
#9
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Saint Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
$101,860 median salary · 66% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 66% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $24,766 in-state tuition
- 26 graduates annually
#10
Franklin University
Master's in Data AnalyticsFully online
Columbus, OHPrivate nonprofit
$101,860 median salary · 11% graduation rate
Program Strengths
- 11% graduation rate
- $101,860 median salary
- $9,552 in-state tuition
- 35 graduates annually
Best Data Analytics Programs - Top 10 Online, Complete Program Data
#1. Drake University — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Drake University's online master's data analytics program #1. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Des Moines, IA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $51,444/year | Graduation Rate: 74% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 83.0
#2. Butler University — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Butler University's online master's data analytics program #2. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Indianapolis, IN | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $46,570/year | Graduation Rate: 80% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 80.8
#3. Allegany College of Maryland — Associate's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Allegany College of Maryland's online associate's data analytics program #3. Degree: Associate's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Cumberland, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,640/year | Graduation Rate: 40% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 80.6
#4. Clarkson University — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Clarkson University's online master's data analytics program #4. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Potsdam, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $58,058/year | Graduation Rate: 75% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 80.4
#5. Westcliff University — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Westcliff University's online master's data analytics program #5. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Irvine, CA | Type: Private for-profit | Tuition: $17,520/year | Graduation Rate: 62% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 79.0
#6. Norwich University — Bachelor's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Norwich University's online bachelor's data analytics program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Northfield, VT | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $46,860/year | Graduation Rate: 60% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 75.2
#7. Purdue University Global — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Purdue University Global's online master's data analytics program #7. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: West Lafayette, IN | Type: Public | Tuition: $10,080/year | Graduation Rate: 50% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 72.4
#8. University of Mississippi — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks University of Mississippi's online master's data analytics program #8. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: University, MS | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,612/year | Graduation Rate: 72% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 71.9
#9. Maryville University of Saint Louis — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Maryville University of Saint Louis's online master's data analytics program #9. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Saint Louis, MO | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $24,766/year | Graduation Rate: 66% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 70.8
#10. Franklin University — Master's Data Analytics (Online)
Hakia ranks Franklin University's online master's data analytics program #10. Degree: Master's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Columbus, OH | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $9,552/year | Graduation Rate: 11% | Median Salary: $101,860 | Score: 65.3
Best Data Analytics Programs - Compare Top 5 Online
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 100.0/100 |
| #2 University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | 90.9/100 |
| #3 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | 90.8/100 |
| #4 University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | 88.2/100 |
| #5 University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 87.7/100 |
Data from IPEDS 2024. Tuition shown is in-state for public schools.
Top 50 Online Data Analytics Degree Programs 2026
| Rank | Program & School | Delivery | Annual Tuition | Grad Rate | Median Salary | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Master's in Data Analytics Drake UniversityDes Moines, IA · Private nonprofit | Online | $51,444 | 74% | $101,860 | 83.0 |
| #2 | Master's in Data Analytics Butler UniversityIndianapolis, IN · Private nonprofit | Online | $46,570 | 80% | $101,860 | 80.8 |
| #3 | Associate's in Data Analytics Allegany College of MarylandCumberland, MD · Public | Online | $8,640 | 40% | $101,860 | 80.6 |
| #4 | Master's in Data Analytics Clarkson UniversityPotsdam, NY · Private nonprofit | Online | $58,058 | 75% | $101,860 | 80.4 |
| #5 | Master's in Data Analytics Westcliff UniversityIrvine, CA · Private for-profit | Online | $17,520 | 62% | $101,860 | 79.0 |
| #6 | Bachelor's in Data Analytics Norwich UniversityNorthfield, VT · Private nonprofit | Online | $46,860 | 60% | $101,860 | 75.2 |
| #7 | Master's in Data Analytics Purdue University GlobalWest Lafayette, IN · Public | Online | $10,080 | 50% | $101,860 | 72.4 |
| #8 | Master's in Data Analytics University of MississippiUniversity, MS · Public | Online | $9,612 | 72% | $101,860 | 71.9 |
| #9 | Master's in Data Analytics Maryville University of Saint LouisSaint Louis, MO · Private nonprofit | Online | $24,766 | 66% | $101,860 | 70.8 |
| #10 | Master's in Data Analytics Franklin UniversityColumbus, OH · Private nonprofit | Online | $9,552 | 11% | $101,860 | 65.3 |
| #11 | Master's in Data Analytics Eastern UniversitySaint Davids, PA · Private nonprofit | Online | $37,680 | 54% | $101,860 | 63.8 |
| #12 | Associate's in Data Analytics Wilmington UniversityNew Castle, DE · Private nonprofit | Online | $12,570 | 20% | $101,860 | 63.0 |
| #13 | Master's in Data Analytics Walsh CollegeTroy, MI · Private nonprofit | Online | $22,104 | — | $101,860 | 61.7 |
| #14 | Bachelor's in Data Analytics City University of SeattleSeattle, WA · Private nonprofit | Online | $13,929 | — | $101,860 | 61.4 |
| #15 | Master's in Data Analytics MGH Institute of Health ProfessionsBoston, MA · Private nonprofit | Online | $85,000 | — | $101,860 | 51.9 |
Showing all 15 ranked programs.
How Much Does a Data Analytics Online Degree Cost?
The total cost of a online's degree in Data Analytics ranges from $40,000 at public universities to over $180,000 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (Research.com, TechGuide, University catalogs).
- Public University (In-State): $10,000/year × 4 years = $40,000 total
- Public University (Out-of-State): $25,000/year × 4 years = $100,000 total
- Private University: $45,000/year × 4 years = $180,000 total
- Online Programs: $15,000/year × 4 years = $60,000 total
With median starting salaries of $91,290, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.
Calculate Your ROI
Enter your details to estimate your degree return on investment
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
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.
$68,000
Starting Salary
$95,000
Mid-Career
+25%
Job Growth
17,700
Annual Openings
Career Paths
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.
Median Salary:$87,220
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2041Collect, process, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns that inform business strategies and operational improvements.
Median Salary:$68,910
Market Research Analyst
SOC 13-1161Study market conditions to examine potential sales of products or services, using statistical software and data visualization tools.
Median Salary:$68,230
Operations Research Analyst
SOC 15-2031Use advanced analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and improve decision-making processes.
Median Salary:$86,200
Financial Analyst
SOC 13-2051Evaluate investment opportunities, assess financial performance, and provide recommendations using data analysis and financial modeling.
Median Salary:$83,660
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Design, implement, and maintain database systems that store and organize data for analysis and business operations.
Median Salary:$98,860
Top States for Online Data Analytics Programs
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 28
- Median Tuition
- $18,240
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $14,820
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in Florida
- Total Programs
- 19
- Median Tuition
- $16,560
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 17
- Median Tuition
- $22,140
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in Pennsylvania
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $20,592
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in Arizona
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $15,360
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $19,440
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in Illinois
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $18,720
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $17,280
Best Data Analytics Online Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $19,680
Which Online Data Analytics Program Is Right for You?
Georgia Tech OMSA
- 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
Arizona State University
- 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
Penn State World Campus
- 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
UMGC
- 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
Southern New Hampshire University
- 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 Data Analytics Degrees
How long does it take to get a Data Analytics degree?
A bachelor's degree takes 4 years (120 credits). Master's programs take 12-24 months (30-40 credits). MIT's Master of Business Analytics completes in 12 months. Some online programs offer accelerated 15-18 month options. Bootcamps run 3-6 months but lack degree credentials. (IPEDS, University catalogs)
Can you get a Data Analytics degree online?
Many top universities offer online data analytics degrees. Georgia Tech's MS Analytics costs ~$10,000 total. Programs range from $11,000-$17,000 for master's degrees. UC Berkeley, Purdue, and Northwestern offer highly-ranked online options. Most programs require no GRE/GMAT and accommodate working professionals. (TechGuide, Research.com)
Is a Data Analytics degree worth it?
With median salary of $91,290, 21% job growth through 2034, and 9,600 annual openings, data analytics offers solid ROI. The analytics market will grow from $7.03 billion to $303.4 billion by 2030. Master's degrees add ~$15,000 to starting salaries. More accessible than data science with strong career outcomes. (BLS OOH 2024, Research.com)
What are the best schools for Data Analytics?
Top programs: MIT Master of Business Analytics (#1, $53,450/year), Northwestern McCormick ($56,067/year), USC ($47,880/year). Georgia Tech offers exceptional online value (~$10,000 total). Boston University's MS in CIS with Data Analytics concentration is highly ranked. 19 of the top 72 global data programs are in the US. (QS Rankings 2025, Fortune Education)
What are the requirements for a Data Analytics degree?
Prerequisites include Statistics, basic programming (Python, R, SQL), and business fundamentals. Bachelor's programs require high school diploma with strong math. Master's programs require bachelor's degree (any field acceptable), 3.0+ GPA, and basic quantitative skills. Many programs have no GRE/GMAT requirement. (University catalogs)
Do you need a Data Analytics degree for entry-level jobs?
A bachelor's degree is sufficient for entry-level data analyst roles ($59,700-$82,000). Bootcamps and certifications can provide entry points. Master's degrees boost salaries by ~$15,000 and open senior/specialized roles. Data analytics is more accessible than data science, with less advanced technical requirements. (PayScale, Coursera, BLS)
What's the job market like for Data Analytics graduates?
Strong outlook. BLS projects 21% growth for operations research analysts (2024-2034) with 9,600 annual openings. Data-related roles grow 34-35% overall. Global data reaches 181 zettabytes by 2025. Industries from healthcare to finance need analytics talent. Entry-level accessibility makes it attractive for career changers. (BLS OOH 2024)
Data Analytics vs Data Science: which is better?
Data Science: Higher salaries ($112,590 vs $82,000), more technical depth (ML, AI), requires advanced degrees. Data Analytics: More accessible, business-focused, interpreting existing data. Choose analytics for business insights and faster career entry. Choose data science for building predictive models and higher earning potential. (Research.com, BLS)
What skills do Data Analytics graduates need?
Key skills include programming languages, problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication. Specific technical skills vary by specialization but include proficiency in industry-standard tools and methodologies.
How much do Data Analytics graduates earn?
The median salary for Data Analytics professionals is $91,290 nationally. Entry-level positions start around $53,910, with experienced professionals earning over $159,280.
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.
How We Rank Data Analytics Degree Programs
Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024
Of the 15 online data analytics programs we rank, Drake University's Master's in Data Analytics earns the highest Hakia Score. Each is graded on real graduation, admissions, salary, and tuition data. In-state tuition across the list spans $8,640 to $85,000.
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 2024 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
- BLS OEWS 2024 — National and metro salary data by occupation
- CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes
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.