The demand for professionals with the skills needed to work with ‘Big Data’ is on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for computer and information research scientists is expected to grow by 21% through 2031, much faster than average for all other occupations. Business executives need data analysis professionals to collect and analyze relevant data to help them make informed business decisions. With thousands upon thousands of data elements available within an organization, the role of a data analyst to help make sense of it all is crucial. Data analysts are found in all sectors and industries from non-profits to fortune 500 corporations. Completing a data analytics degree program can help you get the skills and knowledge needed to work in this exciting field. Worried that going back to school is too expensive? A data analytics bachelor’s degree online may be more affordable than you imagine! We created this list of the most affordable online data analytics bachelor’s degree programs in the field of data science–all with an average net price of less than $22,000 a year based on their average net price figures published by the National Center for Education Statistics!
#15 -Bay Path University – Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Business Analytics Online
Average Net Price: $18,664/year
Bay Path University features a top affordable online data analytics program for students who want to learn to effectively analyze data and present their findings. Courses include:
- Dynamics of Management
- Organization Development and Change
- Data Mining and ‘Big Data”
Data analytics degree students will learn business principles and cutting-edge computer software applications commonly found in the workplace. Graduates are able to evaluate data, develop decision support models, and create strategies that business leaders can use to advance their business.
#14 -Salem University – Salem, West Virginia
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science-Data Science
Average Net Price: $18,343/year
The affordable top online bachelor’s in data science from Salem University emphasizes the design, development, and maintenance of software systems. Students will learn about ‘Big Data’ and principles related to:
- data mining
- security
- analytics
New courses begin every four weeks and are designed to accommodate working professionals. Courses include:
- Security Data Sciences
- Data Mining/Data Warehousing
- Data Analytics
Graduates are prepared for roles as:
- data analysts
- data scientist
- data and technology consultant
#13 -Colorado State University – Fort Collins, Colorado
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics
Average Net Price: $18,320/year
Colorado State University Global offers a top affordable online bachelor’s in management information systems and business analytics designed to help students take their career to the next level. Regardless of location, online students pay the low in-state tuition rate. Tuition rates are locked in for as long as the student stays in the program. Courses include:
- Database Concepts
- Data Mining
- Statistics and SPSS
Courses are delivered in a 100% online format, allowing students to work from just about anywhere. Student support services are available to online students in a user friendly format.
#12 -Rasmussen University – Rockford, Illinois
Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Program
Average Net Price: $17,919/year
The affordable online bachelor’s in data analytics from Rasmussen University features a career focused curriculum and hands-on training. Students can begin the program at various points throughout the year. The program aligns with the SAS Joint Certificate program, meaning students earn their Data Analytics SAS Joint Certificate after passing three specific courses. Students will gain skills in:
- Data Extraction
- Data Manipulation
- Data Analysis
- Data Visualization
Students can save a significant amount of money off the cost of tuition using Flex Choice. Flex Choice allows students to complete online coursework with self-directed assessments, giving them credit for what they already know.
#11 -Capella University – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Bachelor of Science in Information-Data Analytics
Average Net Price: $17,840/year
Capella University, a leader in online education, offers a top online affordable bachelor’s in information technology with a minor in data analytics. This data science program teaches students to:
- clearly present analytics
- find IT solutions and solve problems
- act in an ethical manner
Online data analytics degree students have access to Skillsoft, an eLearning resource that helps students develop and refine their IT and business skills. Hands-on experience is a key component of the program. Online students have access to virtual labs and interactive simulations. Capella has several ways students can save on their already low tuition rates. Prior learning assessment, low-cost general education courses, and the Capella Progress Reward all help students reduce their overall out of pocked costs.
#10 -Purdue University Global – West Lafayette, Indiana
Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Analytics
Average Net Price: $17,759/year
Purdue University Global features a top affordable online data science program through their bachelor’s in analytics. Students will learn to understand and interpret data and then present their findings to leaders within their organization. Courses are delivered in 10 week terms and students can expect to spend between 15 and 18 hours per week on their coursework. Courses cover topics like:
- predictive analytics
- SAP Analytics
- NoSQL
Students can choose an optional concentration in supply chain management and logistics.
#9 -Colorado Technical University – Colorado Springs, Colorado
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Data Science
Average Net Price: $17,286/year
Few online data science bachelor’s degree programs have the options and flexibility that Colorado Technical University provides. This affordable bachelor’s in data science online features Fast Track, a series of mini modules designed to assess your knowledge to earn college credit for concepts you already know. This unique feature saves students both time and money. Online courses include:
- C++, Java, SQL, and Python Programming
- Software Engineering
- Into to Programming
In addition to Fast Track, CTU offers other ways students can save money on their online bachelor’s degree. A variety of grants and scholarships are available to eligible students to further reduce the cost of tuition.
#8 -Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics Online
Average Net Price: $15,229/year
If you want to harness the power of ‘Big Data’ to make strategic business decisions, Bellevue University’s online affordable bachelor’s in business analytics might be the choice for you! Students complete courses in areas like:
- Applied statistics
- Data management
- Business intelligence
Students will learn to analyze business analytics in real world settings and evaluate database systems to support business analytics applications. Graduates are prepared to work in entry to mid-level positions as:
- business analysts
- data analysts
- junior data scientists
Students who complete the program are also prepared to pursue graduate degrees in:
- business
- information systems
- business analytics.
#7 -Arizona State University – Scottsdale, Arizona
Online Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics
Average Net Price: $14,934/year
The top online affordable bachelor’s in business data analytics from Arizona State University Online is a 120-credit hour program considered one of the best in the country by U.S. News and World Report. Courses cover areas like:
- Business Data Mining
- Big Data Analytics in Business
- Enterprise Analytics
Each course is 7.5 weeks long and there are no on-campus residency requirements. Faculty are from the prestigious W.P. Carey School of Business, an AACSB accredited business school. Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles including:
- business intelligence analyst
- computer and information research scientist.
#6 -Baker College – Owosso, Michigan
Computer Science – Concentration in Database Technology
Average Net Price: $14,366/year
Baker College features an affordable online bachelor’s in data science focusing on the Oracle database tool. Their computer science program with a concentration in database technology is a comprehensive program. It teaches students critical elements of Oracle as well as:
- software development
- basic computer science
- internet communications
Courses include:
- Introduction to Programming
- Database Management and Design
- Computer Architecture
Graduates are prepared for master’s degree programs in information systems or for professional roles in a variety of industries including consulting and health care.
#5 -Texas A&M University – Commerce, Texas
Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Analytics
Average Net Price: $13,639/year
Texas A&M University features an affordable top online bachelor’s in business analytics emphasizing experiential learning. Students take courses in:
- Mobile Security and Analytics
- Business Analytics Programming
- Business Analytics Modeling
This AACSB accredited program is designed to be flexible to accommodate working professionals. Diverse faculty produce cutting edge research while working in the industry. Students are able to collaborate with peers and faculty through an integrated online learning platform.
#4 -University of Houston Downtown – Houston, Texas
Bachelor of Business in Management Information Systems (MIS)
School Profile
Average Net Price: $13,460/year
Our most affordable online bachelor’s in data science is offered by the University of Houston Downtown. UHD features an online bachelor’s in management information systems for students who have completed their core coursework and are ready for upper-level courses in their field of study. Flexible schedule allows students to manage their education with family and work responsibilities. Online students benefit from an interactive learning environment that fosters collaboration and communication. Coursework is identical to the on-campus program and includes:
- System Analysis and Design
- Information Security Management
- Enterprise System using SAP
The program is accredited by the AACSB so students can feel confident that the program follows best industry practices. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of roles including:
- database administrator
- systems analyst
- programmer
- data analyst
#3 -Washington State University – Pullman, Washington
Online Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics
Average Net Price: $11,877/year
The Washington State University Global Campus features an affordable top online bachelor’s in data analytics. It’s offered jointly through the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Students must choose a from nine tracks to specialize in including:
- Data Visualization
- Actuarial Science
- Computation
The curriculum helps students develop strong communication and technical skills that allow them to work effectively in teams.
#2 -Western Governors University – Salt Lake City, Utah
Bachelor of Science Data Management/Data Analytics
Average Net Price: $10,336/year
Western Governors University offers an innovative online affordable bachelor’s degree in data management and data analytics. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications from organizations like Oracle, CompTIA, and CIW. Courses include:
- Structured Query Language
- Data Visualization
- Machine Learning
WGU charges students per term rather than per course, allowing students to move quickly through material they already know or learn quickly. WGU students borrow less than half the national average to complete their degree.
#1 -Indiana University – South Bend, Indiana
Online Bachelor of Science in Informatics
Average Net Price: $8,189/year
Indiana University features an affordable online bachelor’s in informatics with three different program track options. Student can choose from tracks in:
- Business
- Health Information Management
- Legal Informatics
Online students benefit from a one-on-one success coaching, career services, online onboarding, and a 24/7 contact center to help with any issues they encounter. Graduates have become successful:
- database developers
- network managers
- information architects.
Related Resources:
- Top 30 Most Affordable Online Certificates in Business Analytics
- Top 5 Online Bachelors in Statistics Programs
- Top 20 Online Masters in Data Analytics