Best Online Data Analytics Degrees
Our list of the best online data analytics degree programs features accredited schools ordered by the number of data analytics graduates. We think this is reflects student trust as well as program strength and overall popularity.
Key Takeaways:
- Columbia Southern University ranks #1 overall, with 53 graduates from its B.S. in Information Technology and over 13,000 online students.
- Wilmington University holds the highest recommendation rate at 96% from our student surveys.
For more, visit our methodology. We also spoke with Pav Lertjitbanjong, a veteran analytics leader, who brings 23 years of experience building high-performance data teams to share candid advice for online students entering this rapidly changing field.
Best Online Data Analytics Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Southern University | 53 | $8,100 | N/A | 79% | |
| Wilmington University | 7 | $12,570 | N/A | 97% | |
| Lynn University | 3 | $11,250 | N/A | 83% | |
| Columbia College - SC | 1 | $12,210 | N/A | 60% |
A Closer Look at The Most Popular Online Data Analytics Degrees
If you’re looking to break into the world of data analytics, one of the first things you’ll notice is how surprisingly short the list of popular online bachelor’s programs in this field really is. Despite the soaring demand for data professionals across industries, our curated list includes just four online programs that have produced a significant number of graduates.
In part, this limited pool reflects how specialized, and relatively new, bachelor’s degrees in data analytics are. Many colleges still route aspiring data analysts through broader business or computer science tracks. But for students who want a focused path with a real track record of student success, the programs that do rise to the top are worth paying attention to.
In fact, all four programs on our list are included because they have real graduation numbers. Perhaps even more revealing: two of the four schools report recommendation rates above 90%, based on our database of over 75,000 verified student reviews.
Below, we'll dive into these online data analytics degrees in more detail, comparing and contrasting, to help you make the best decision for your needs.
How Do You Spot a Winning Online Data Analytics Program? Start With Popularity
The high number of graduates often signals that a program has been refined over time, with established systems for delivering online education effectively.
For data analytics, specifically, where career outcomes rely on mastering technical tools and applied logic, a school that has successfully guided students through to graduation is likely doing something right.
Another meaningful signal of popularity is online enrollment at the institutional level. Large-scale online universities tend to invest heavily in virtual learning platforms, digital support services, and flexible course scheduling, which are all critical for students learning data analytics remotely.
Columbia Southern reports over 13,000 online enrollees, placing it among the top 2% of online institutions nationally. Wilmington isn’t far behind, with more than 7,500 online students...
At the top of our list, Columbia Southern University reports over 13,000 online enrollees, placing it among the top 2% of online institutions nationally. Wilmington University isn’t far behind, with more than 7,500 online students, positioning it in the top 4% nationwide. In a technical field like data analytics, that translates to greater access to virtual labs, streamlined course delivery, and tech-forward support systems.
Online Flexibility That Fits Real Life
Another major theme across these programs is flexibility. This doesn't just apply in terms of course format but in how you can structure your entire degree path. That’s especially useful for working adults or career changers who want to move at their own pace.
Columbia College - SC offers accelerated seven-week courses and accepts up to 90 transfer credits, making it ideal for students with prior college experience. CSU stands out for allowing up to 75% of your degree to be completed via transfer.
Meanwhile, Lynn University’s rolling start dates and self-paced options give students the ability to start when it makes sense for them.
Stackable Credentials and Built-In Career Paths
In a data-driven field, what you learn and how you apply it both matter. Some schools have gone a step further by building real-world value into their curriculum through certifications or grad-level fast tracks.
WilmU leads this category with a unique Dual-Credit ADVANTAGE™ system that allows undergraduates to complete graduate-level coursework at no additional cost. Its applied math program also includes embedded certifications in areas like data visualization, Java, and Microsoft .NET. Similarly, Columbia College - SC offers a built-in bridge to a one-year MBA, perfect for students who want to quickly move from analytics to leadership roles.
WilmU also has the best recommendation rate on our list, with 96% of students endorsing the school to their peers. We think that some of the most important signals of success come from the students themselves.
A WilmU grad had nothing but positive things to say about studying online. Nicholas D. (graduated 2018) noted:
“The online experience was thorough and the curriculum was excellent! Because it is online, it is accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time. I have a very hectic work schedule so this was paramount to me.”
An Expert's Take: What It Really Takes to Succeed in an Online Data Analytics Program
Finishing a data analytics bachelor's degree online can unlock career opportunities, but only if paired with strategy, skill, and storytelling. We spoke with Pav Lertjitbanjong, a former Fortune 500 analytics executive, about how students can stand out, stay relevant, and build careers that last.
"Don’t Wait to Be Chosen": How Online Analytics Grads Can Future-Proof Their Careers
Data Analytics Leader Turned Career Mentor
What makes an online degree in data analytics a strong choice for students looking to break into tech, business intelligence, or operations roles?
"Online degrees in data analytics can be a powerful launchpad — but only if paired with practical experience. While online learning gives access to technical training and flexibility, the brutal truth is hiring managers (especially at top firms) still weigh heavily on brand-name schools and applied experience.
The real power of an online degree? It democratizes access. It gives you a seat at the table to start building — whether that’s dashboards, case studies, or client work — without waiting for permission. For business intelligence, ops, or tech roles, the degree is the ignition. But your portfolio is the fuel."
Which tools and platforms are most essential for students to learn during their degree?
"At a minimum:
-
SQL (non-negotiable)
-
Excel & Power BI (for cross-functional business ops roles)
-
Python with pandas and NumPy for deeper analysis
-
Tableau or Looker Studio for storytelling
-
Git/GitHub to build credibility
-
And now? Basic prompt engineering + ChatGPT workflow automation = real advantage
Bonus: Learn how to speak business, not just code — analytics exists to solve real-world problems, not just build beautiful dashboards."
What roles does this degree prepare students for?
"You’ll be well positioned for roles such as Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Marketing/Customer Insights Analyst, Operations Analyst, Junior Data Scientist, [and] Analytics Consultant (freelance or agency side).
That said, titles don’t mean everything. Many grads carve paths into rev ops, growth marketing, product, or even solopreneurship using these exact skills. That’s [what] I see as a way to layoff proof your career."
Do you see particular industries where demand for analytics professionals is especially high right now?
"Yes — demand is strongest where efficiency, risk, or personalization drives profit. Current hot zones are such as:
Healthcare: value-based care models = data-driven everything
Finance: fraud, credit scoring, customer retention
Logistics/Supply Chain: AI optimization + real-time analytics
Retail/E-commerce: customer LTV modeling, churn, and automation
But here’s the truth: even hot industries are automating faster than they’re hiring. That’s why it’s not just about chasing demand, it’s about becoming layoff-resistant by building your own value ecosystem."
What’s the difference between a degree in data analytics vs. data science?
"Think of it this way:
- Data Analytics = interpretation + business insight
- Data Science = modeling + prediction
If you enjoy simplifying complexity, working with stakeholders, and making data actionable → Analytics is your lane.
If you love math, want to work with models, and don’t mind deeper technical complexity → Data Science might suit you better.
For career security, analytics with business strategy remains the most transferable path. You can pivot faster, freelance easier, and communicate with decision-makers — which AI still struggles to do."
What’s one key piece of advice you’d give to someone starting an online data analytics degree?
"Build a body of work — don’t wait to be chosen.
With over 23 years in corporate strategy and marketing — more than half as a hiring manager — I’ve seen incredible talent passed over simply because they couldn’t show real-world proof and/or lack of the brand credential.
So yes, the degree matters. But what gets you hired, freelance clients, or even into entrepreneurship? Your ability to solve problems and communicate value.
Build dashboards on public data. Volunteer to help nonprofits or startups. Post insights online. Create a portfolio that screams, “I don’t just know this — I do this.”
EXPERT TIP
"And one more thing: AI will replace repetitive analyst tasks. But if you combine your analytics skills with emotional intelligence, storytelling, and entrepreneurial thinking — you’ll never be obsolete."
FAQs About Online Data Analytics Degrees
What Do You Learn in an Online Data Analytics Degree?
An online data analytics degree explores how to collect and manage information in order to solve complex problems. The curriculum for a data analytics degree program often blends computer science with mathematics and statistics, providing students with the skills to visualize and interpret data sets. Students in this field must be comfortable traversing complex figures. Classes will cover core areas of database design and statistical learning as well as subjects such as cloud computing, calculus, business forecasting, and software design.
A 2022 research project from shows that the big data analytics market is projected to grow from $51.8 billion to $142.5 billion from 2022 to 2030. With projected growth at this scale, businesses must hire trained data analytics professionals to oversee, protect, and gain insights from the vast amounts of data that will be produced in the next ten years.
What Degree Is Best for Data Analytics?
Several degrees offer foundational training in data analytics and others expand on specialized areas within the field.
For students who are most interested in the mathematics component of data analytics and would prefer to incorporate algorithms and machine learning in their work, then a data science degree is a suitable alternative.
Another option is a statistics degree, which teaches students how to collect and analyze data in order to generate predictive models, giving it similar components to data analytics training.
However, statistics doesn't always include a computer science component, which on its own, in the form of a computer science program, explores how software and hardware are used to evaluate and organize data.
If you are interested in this field, you may also want to check out the best IT bachelor's degrees.
What Core Courses Are Included in an Online Data Analytics Degree?
Beyond general education requirements in mathematics and science, data analytics students are often required to take a series of core courses in business analytics, data management, and machine learning.
Below is a list of courses commonly found in a data analytics bachelor's degree online:
- Business Data Analytics: Data analytics are often utilized in the business world to optimize processes and increase operational efficiency. This course explores subjects, such as data modeling, key performance indicators, and how data is used in business applications. Students may take two separate levels, an introduction and fundamental techniques.
- Data Visualization: After data is extracted and analyzed, it then needs to be represented in visuals. This course looks at both the practical and conceptual understanding of data visualization through principles of design. Data communication techniques are also explored.
- Data and Information Governance: In this course, students learn how to effectively extract and properly handle data in order to better serve an organization, including the development of policies surrounding data assets.
- Database Design: Database design requires a firm understanding of the programming languages, model creation, and application development. This course takes a foundational approach to these skills, even allowing students to engage in practical case studies in order to gain real world database design experience.
- Predictive Analytics: Predictive analytics uses machine learning and other tools to address organizational issues through data. Students design their own experiments, or utilize actual case studies, to analyze patterns and make predictive assessments.
Is an Online Data Analytics Degree Worth It?
Data analytics students learn fundamental skills in an ever-expanding field that's projected to see massive growth in the years to come. The curriculum generally involves a lot of technical training, particularly in the areas of mathematics and computer science. Students who are comfortable studying these complex subjects often benefit from a comfortable salary and strong job security.
The following pros/cons list will help prospective students gain insight into whether a data analytics degree is worth it for them:
Potential Benefits
- High-demand skills — There's an increasingly high demand for skilled workers in the field of data science. A 2021 IT Skills Report from shows that job recruiters increased data science-related interview tasks by 295%, making it the most sought-after skill in information technology.
- Working in different industries — Big Data is universal and applies to nearly every industry in the world. Data analytics graduates have the opportunity to work in healthcare, entertainment, business, finance, and the shared economy, where their skills help organizations increase efficiency and gain vital business insights.
Potential Drawbacks
- Low job satisfaction — According to , professional data analysts rated their job satisfaction at a 2.9 out of 5 stars. This places the field in the bottom 22% of all U.S. careers.
- Boring work — Organizing data is highly tedious and often includes a lot of monotonous work. A 2022 psychological study completed in part by the shows that data analysis roles are the most common occupation for so-called "boring people."
- Communication skills are essential — Data analytics professionals must be comfortable presenting complex data finds to leadership, especially if they work in business. This can be in stark contrast to the many hours spent on a computer crunching numbers.
What Can You Do With a Data Analytics Degree?
An online degree in data analytics prepares students for a variety of high-growth careers that center on interpreting and applying data to real-world challenges. Graduates may enter fields like finance, healthcare, or tech, taking on roles that draw from the same foundational skills in statistics, programming, and data visualization.
Career options include high-paying and in-demand paths such as actuary, data scientist, operations research analyst, and market research analyst. While each role varies in day-to-day tasks, they all rely on the ability to extract insights and drive decision-making through data.
Can I Become a Data Analyst Online?
Yes, data analysts can study completely online through one of the many remote degrees listed on this page. This type of remote training is especially beneficial in preparing graduates for employment, as most roles can be completed at home without face-to-face interaction with colleagues.
How Long Does a Data Analyst Degree Take?
Data analyst degrees at the bachelor's level generally take four years to complete. This is an approximate timeline and may change depending on a number of factors, such as whether a student is studying full time or part time, how many credits are required to graduate, and if students have transferable credits from a data analytics associate degree. In fact, it's often the case that students take longer to graduate than they originally plan for.
Is the Field of Data Analytics High Paying?
Roles commonly found within the field of data analytics offer salaries that are higher than most other occupations. It's not uncommon for roles to reach a salary of over $100,000. Even the lower paying roles still earn more than the median annual salary for all occupations countrywide.
Do You Need a Degree for Data Analytics?
According to the BLS, as cited above, roles related to data analytics — such as data scientist and operations research analyst — require a bachelor's degree. Some employers may ask applicants to possess a master's degree, however, bachelor's degrees are generally sufficient to gain entry-level roles.
Student Reviews of Online Data Analytics Programs
I attended San Jose State University from Fall 2022 up until May 2025. I was in the online Information Science & Data Analytics undergraduate program. I would say overall the program has been nothing but great for me. The different types of classes are from cyber security, data science, information security, etc. They all taught very well, and I got out numerous skills and knowledge from each of them. The professors for my school were excellent as well. Even though it was an online program, the connection... Read More
Review Date: 8/7/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended San Jose State University from Fall 2022 up until May 2025. I was in the online Information Science & Data Analytics undergraduate program. I would say overall the program has been nothing but great for me. The different types of classes are from cyber security, data science, information security, etc. They all taught very well, and I got out numerous skills and knowledge from each of them. The professors for my school were excellent as well. Even though it was an online program, the connection... Read More
Review Date: 8/7/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Like any education - you get what you put in. I am working on my Bachelor's in Data Analytics while working in as a Data Analyst. These class are tough. I have an instructor for stats right now who reviews our Statistical work coded in Jupyter notebook and and leaves us a voice message each week on our work detailing what we did right and where we may have gone wrong. Not all teachers are this hands on, but the amount of relative information I am learning is so inspiring. Perhaps I am unique because... Read More
Review Date: 1/23/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It was a great experience. I am an older student but the present and even past teachers would provide assistance when asked in a timely manner. The teachers were very knowledgeable in the course they were teaching. They also had a lot of experience prior to teaching the course which is very helpful.
Review Date: 10/27/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
ASU is a wonderful college with so many resources to help students to succeed. I honestly feel like ASU took a chance on me! The reason I say this is because I did not have the best GPA when I applied, however, based on my personal statement they decided to give me a chance. I was determined to show the admissions committee that they made the right decision by working hard and never giving up on myself. I was expose to career coaching and advising services that were outstanding. ASU really wants... Read More
Review Date: 4/17/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes