If statistics, computer modeling, or data interpretation piques your interest, you may find a career in data analytics to be quite rewarding. Data analysts are highly sought-after professionals who can expect great salaries, even at the entry-level. Jobs for data analysts can be found in a wide variety of environments, across a diverse mix of companies and industries. Whether you want to work for a large corporation or assist in scientific research, if you have the skills and expertise, there’s an analytical career out there for you. As with any diligent business role, most data analytics careers require a postsecondary degree. Read on to learn about the recommended degree path, and discover what you can do with a bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics.
What Does a Degree in Data Analytics Entail?
In simple terms, data analytics (sometimes referred to as business analytics) involves examining sets of data in order to find trends, make predictions, and come to important business decisions. It can be used by scientists and researchers to help verify scientific theories or hypotheses. It can also be used by companies to predict consumer behavior, examine customer data, and make decisions involving everything from management to product creation.
A bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics, therefore, prepares students for a variety of exciting careers in the field. The program trains students to extract, analyze, organize, and present data that will be helpful for company decision-making. This four-year degree incorporates a combination of general education credits as well program-specific courses. These classes include, but are not limited to:
- Principles of Economics
- Managerial Finance
- Computer Concepts
- Business Law
- Business Policy and Strategy
- Workforce Dynamics
In addition, students can choose related, elective courses such as:
- Basics of Data Science Programming
- Data Science Advanced Modeling
- Business Forecasting
- Data Science Basic Inference and Visualization
- Python for Data Analytics
- Operations Management
- Project Management
What You Can Do with a Data Analytics Degree:
With a Data Analytics degree in hand, you will be prepared for a wide variety of careers including computer programming and data science. Here are just a few options available to graduates who hold a BS in Data Analytics:
- Operations Research Analyst: Operations research analysts use math and statistical analysis to help their company or organization solve problems. They may provide research on specific topics to support their team. They may use statistical analysis, simulations, predictive modeling, or other methods of analysis to develop practical solutions for their teams. They’ll also track and analyze key metrics and deliver reports on them to their team, explaining their findings and making recommendations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this career path should increase by 25% over the next ten years. Additionally, the median annual pay for this job is $86,200 per year, making this a great job to consider.
- Data Scientist: Data scientists perform a similar job as operations research analysts or data analysts, however they’re unique in that they create the framework for their analysis. This can include creating and using statistical modes and algorithms, running experiments and data tests, developing data products, and optimizing their testing frameworks to analyze data even more effectively. Data scientists are innovators and creators in their field who form their own, unique approaches to finding and analyzing data. They can use machine learning and computer programming to perform their job. Data scientists earn a median annual salary of $98,230 per year, with the highest paid 10% earning over $165,000 per year. If using your creativity as well as math skills appeals to you, this might be a great career to consider.
- Computer Programmer: For graduates who have a particular affinity for management information systems and business analytics, a degree in Data Analytics can be great preparation for a career in computer programming. Computer programmers write and test code for applications, programs, and software. Computer programmers with a background in data analysis can prove to be major assets to their employers. Their mastery of data extraction and analysis give them a unique perspective on how big data and data systems can be used, and therefore give them an edge when it comes to developing programs that will help their company understand their customers’ behavior and habits. Computer programmers can expect to earn a median annual salary of $89,190 per year, much higher than the national average salary.
As you can see, those with a bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics can jump into the workforce and launch a successful career after graduation. However, graduates also have the opportunity to advance their knowledge and skillset through a master’s degree program. If you wish to continue learning, and to position yourself for even greater career and earning potential, a master’s degree in Data Analytics is a great next step. A MS in Data Analytics can teach you the conceptual and technical skills needed to cultivate expertise in analysis, management, solution architecture, and delivery. This, in turn, can prepare you for leadership careers in Data Science, Data Analytics, Business Intelligence, and more. Learn about the career prospects here.
Launching Your Future in Data Analytics
The question is no longer, “What can you do with a Data Analytics degree?” It is, “What can’t you do?” Data analysts work everywhere. From hedge funds to technology firms, insurance companies to credit bureaus, nearly every industry relies on the work of data scientists and analysts. As technology changes and big data becomes more important to the way companies do business, demand for data analysts will also grow. Naturally, the launching point for a career in data analysis is to earn a Data Analytics degree!
Is a degree in Data Analytics in your future? Consider earning a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree in CT. Learn more about University of Bridgeport’s Data Analytics program at the School of Business, here!