Complete Guide to Online Bachelor's in Data Science Degrees

Overview of Online Data Science Degrees

Data science is a broad field that allows for more specific concentrations in more advanced degrees. Online bachelor’s degrees in the field take one of two primary orientations: information technology and data management or data analysis. The former is more computer data and technology oriented, while the latter is more business data and analyzing oriented. Core courses are statistics-based with an introduction to IT included. Both degrees can help students with future careers in the technology industry analyzing and managing data as well as computer network systems.

Students wishing to pursue an online Master’s of Data Science will take core courses such as introduction to data science, and data engineering. Students have a choice in specialty areas and can study online at their own pace. A Master’s of Data Science is usually around 36 credits and may provide an educational foundation upon which graduates can achieve higher level positions within their employment or seek positions as senior data analysts or business intelligence analysts.

Online doctoral degrees in data science are available to students who have obtained their master’s. A Ph.D in data science usually takes 50 months to complete, or 90-95 credits. Professionals with doctoral degrees in data science qualifications are most likely to be promoted to leaders within the industry and must demonstrate the ability to analyze large quantities of data.

Data science certificates at both graduate and undergraduate levels are also available online. Online graduate certificates are best for professionals who do not have the time available to complete a full master’s degree, but would like to further their education. An online undergraduate certificate in data science requires a student to already be enrolled in an undergraduate program, but the program doesn't necessarily need to be data-related. Students in may enroll in an online undergraduate certificate program as a way to stand out amongst their peers and be ready for a career in a data-heavy world.

Online Bachelor's Degrees in Data Science

Online bachelor’s degrees in the field of data science have different titles depending on the specific area of study. A selection of programs specialize in computer technology data, such as a Bachelor’s of Information Technology and Data Management while other programs, like a Bachelor’s of Data Analytics, focus on business data. Students can also pursue a Bachelor’s of Information Technology online specializing in Data Analytics. Most programs consist of an equivalent of 120 semester credit hours to obtain the degree and are offered at state universities and some vocational colleges.

Students enrolled in an online  data science related program will take core courses such as introductory statistics, fundamentals for information technology, cyber law and ethics, as well as fundamentals of database systems and an introduction to IT course. Again, core courses vary depending on the direction of the degree. Students graduating from these programs may find work in entry-level data related jobs such as clinical data manager, computer network analyst, computer database architect, or information security analyst.

Prior to enrolling in a bachelor's program in data-related and IT fields, students must have earned a high school diploma. As well, some programs require demonstrated success in mathematics, strong English, and an above 3.0 average to be accepted. In addition, depending on the school, students may be required to submit qualifying SAT scores.

The Importance of Accredited Online Data Science Degrees

Accreditation is an important consideration for all students pursuing higher education for four primary reasons. First, it guarantees programs are modern, efficient, and high quality. Secondly, employers often seek students who have obtained degrees from accredited programs. Therefore, students have a greater chance of being hired if they have attended an accredited school. Thirdly, regional accreditation allows students to transfer credits from one college to the next in an easier process. Lastly, only students who attend accredited institutions are eligible for federal financial aid.

In addition to institutional accreditation, students pursuing online degrees in data science may look for programmatically accredited degrees. Programmatic accreditation helps to ensure that the specific degree program a student is enrolled in meets national standards for the field they are pursuing. Degrees from programmatically accredited institutions often garner more respect from employers. One highly respected programmatic accreditation for data science programs is the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. ABET is a program-based accreditation commission focusing on high quality applied science, computer technology, and engineering programs. Prospective students should include this in their criteria for deciding where to attend.

Careers in Data Science

Through their studies, online data science students will learn computer analytics, software development, statistics, risk management, and other technology skills. Graduates of data science programs possess the ability to analyze existing data, predict data patterns, and create programs, plans, and products using information gleaned from data analysis. A collection of skills that proves useful in marketing, information technology, and computer programming as well as within data-heavy environments like hospitals, military bases, television networks, and financial institutions.

Data and technology are important to a wide range of industries and professions. Within these industries, data science leaders are responsible for analyzing big data and projecting future data-related information and outcomes. The market is wide open for data scientists to work in a plethora of fields with job titles ranging from data analysis to data engineer and clinical data manager to senior tech specialist.

Day to day life in the data science field may not require as much screen time as one might think. School graduates are prepared to forecast and analyze data for all kinds of reasons. Depending on employment, careers entail developing strategies, communicating ideas, and attending brainstorming meetings. Of course, computer tasks play a large role, but data science employment requires a great deal of human interaction, too.

Data plays a huge role in every business, and this role is only growing. Graduates who obtain entry-level positions as computer network analysts or data analysts could earn a median annual salary of $93,167 whereas students boasting online master’s and doctoral degrees in data science may see salaries clearing six figures.