Search Programs

2023 Best Online Data Science Degrees

By OnlineU Staff Writers | Updated 8/14/2023
2023 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Data Science Badge

An online bachelor’s in data science gives students foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a new and growing field. Prospective students can expect to explore topics like data mining, data visualization, business intelligence analytics, and much more. Some of the most popular courses within an online bachelor’s in data science include Machine Learning, Data Visualization, and Server Administration. Sometimes, online schools offer concentrations with an online bachelor’s in data science, like business analytics, behavioral science, and actuarial science. Students can expect to complete a senior capstone, seminar, or internship to graduate. Graduates of an online bachelor’s in data science may go on to enter careers — like database administrators, data engineers, and chief information officers — or pursue affordable data science master's degrees.

View our methodology for more details about our list or learn more about OnlineU.

2023 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Data Science Badge
Find an Online Degree:

Online Data Science Bachelor's Degrees You May Be Interested In


List Of Accredited Online Data Science Schools

University of Phoenix

  • Annual Tuition: $9,552
  • Locations: Nationwide
  • Accreditation: HLC

The University of Phoenix is a private, for-profit university offering an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science. Totaling 120 credit hours, it can take four years for full-time students to complete this program online. Phoenix accepts 100% of applicants, with 37% graduating.

At Phoenix, online students complete coursework delivered asynchronously on Blackboard, a popular digital learning platform. Online students have the opportunity to take on a business or information technology certificate within their first year. Sample courses include Data Programming Languages, Business Data Analytics, and Machine Learning. A data science capstone is required to complete this bachelor's degree online. Prospective careers include data analysts, research scientists, and database architects.

American Public University System

  • Annual Tuition: $7,324
  • Locations: Charles Town (WV)
  • Accreditation: HLC

American Public University System (APUS) is a private, for-profit university offering an online Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics that requires 120 credit hours. Prospective students can expect to spend at least four years completing this program if they maintain a full-time pace. APUS’s acceptance rate is 100%, with a graduation rate of 18%. The program offers seven concentrations, like security and intelligence and human resources.

APUS facilitates asynchronous online learning on the learning management system D2L Brightspace. In this online analytics program, students learn to apply their data analytical and mining skills in order to help their organizations thrive. Example courses include Principles of Supervision, Application Software Integration, and Operations Research. A senior seminar is required for graduation. Potential career options include enterprise architects, data engineers, and statistical analysts.

University of Maryland Global Campus

  • Annual Tuition: $12,336
  • Locations: Adelphi (MD)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is a public university offering an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science, which equals 120 credit hours. Full-time students can spend four years finishing this online degree. UMGC’s acceptance rate is 100%, with a 30% graduation rate.

At UMGC, online students complete courses available asynchronously and synchronously on D2L Brightspace. In this program, students get hands-on experience learning popular analytical concepts, practices, and tools. Some of the program’s courses include Cybersecurity for Leaders and Managers, Data Ethics, and Data Visualization. Students are required to take a capstone course. Potential careers include data architects, statisticians, and data engineers.

Arizona State University

  • Annual Tuition: $24,413
  • Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)
  • Accreditation: HLC

At Arizona State University (ASU), a public institution, prospective students can pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science, which amounts to 120 credit hours. Students can expect to spend four years completing this program. The university’s acceptance rate is 70%, with a 47% graduation rate. This program offers six tracks, like Behavioral Science and Business Analytics.

ASU’s online students complete coursework asynchronously and synchronously on Canvas. This program gives students the in-demand skills necessary for data analytics careers. Example courses are Data Science and Society, Statistical Modeling and Inference for Data Science, and Machine Learning for Data Science. A capstone is required for graduation. Graduates may pursue careers like bioinformatics scientists, clinical data managers, and software developers.

St. Petersburg College

  • Annual Tuition: $9,286
  • Locations: Clearwater (FL)
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

St. Petersburg College (SPC) is a public institution that offers an online Bachelor of Applied Science in Technology Development and Management - Data Science totaling 120 credit hours. It can take four years to complete this program with a full schedule of classes. The acceptance rate at SPC is 100%, with a graduation rate of 35%.

At SPC, online students complete courses delivered asynchronously and synchronously on MyCourses. This program helps students become effective leaders in their organizations. The program’s courses include Web Analytics, Business Intelligence and Data Mining, and Data Analytics Technologies. Students must complete a capstone course to graduate. Prospective careers include computer systems analysts, industrial production managers, and computer systems managers.

University of Massachusetts Global

  • Annual Tuition: $12,440
  • Locations: Multiple Locations
  • Accreditation: WSCUC

The University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global) is a private, nonprofit university with an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Data Science totaling 120 credit hours. Full-time students can spend four years completing this program. The university accepts 93% of applicants, with 59% graduating.

UMass Global facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning on its learning management system. The Data Science emphasis comprises four subdomains: (1) information technology foundations, (2) information technology management, (3) information technology operations, and (4) data analysis. Example courses include Server Administration, Machine Learning, and Database Querying and Analytics. A data analytics capstone course is required for graduation. Potential career options include business analysts, junior data engineers, and financial analysts.

Thomas Edison State University

  • Annual Tuition: $9,856
  • Locations: Trenton (NJ)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

Thomas Edison State University (TESU) is a public university offering an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics, which equals 120 credit hours. Prospective students can expect to spend four years completing this program. TESU’s acceptance rate is 100%, with a 45% graduation rate.

At TESU, online students complete courses delivered on the learning management system Moodle. Students learn skills like data mining, machine learning, and predictive modeling in this program. Sample coursework includes Forecasting Analytics, Interactive Data Visualization, and Python for Analytics. Future careers may include data analysts, data scientists, and chief information officers.

Bellevue University

  • Annual Tuition: $7,851
  • Locations: Bellevue (NE)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Bellevue University is a private, nonprofit institution that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science requiring 127 credit hours. It can take at least four years to complete this program with a full class load. The university’s acceptance rate is 100%, and it still maintains a graduation rate of 51%.

Bellevue University uses Canvas to deliver asynchronous and synchronous online courses. In this program, students gain business analytics, computer science, and statistics skills. Some of the program’s courses include Computer Systems for Data Science, Predictive Analytics, and Data Science Analysis and Visualization. Graduates may go on to careers like data architects, business systems analysts, and database managers.

University of Maine at Augusta

  • Annual Tuition: $18,338
  • Locations: Augusta (ME)
  • Accreditation: NECHE

The University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) is a public university offering an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science that equals 120 credit hours. Full-time students can spend four years finishing their studies. UMA accepts 100% of applicants, with 29% graduating. The program offers two concentrations: (1) social science and (2) business analytics.

At UMA, online students complete courses delivered in asynchronous and synchronous formats on D2L Brightspace. This program is a combination of computer science courses and a built-in concentration. Sample courses include Database Design, Project Management, and Data Mining. A senior project is required for graduation. Prospective careers include data modelers, business intelligence analysts, and data engineers.

Indiana University - East

  • Annual Tuition: $19,978
  • Locations: Richmond (IN)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Indiana University - East (IU East) is a public university that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science, which requires 120 credit hours. It can take four years to complete this program with a full class load. IU’s acceptance rate is 81%, with a graduation rate of 48%. The program has five areas of focus, such as (1) data acquisition and storage and (2) data modeling and analysis.

IU East facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning on the learning management system Canvas. The program prepares students to assume various analytical roles in different fields. Sample courses include Database Programming, Data Fluency, and Visualizing Information. Potential career options for graduates include data mining engineers, data scientists, and analytics managers.

Indiana State University

  • Annual Tuition: $20,160
  • Locations: Terre Haute (IN)
  • Accreditation: HLC

At Indiana State University, a public institution, prospective students can pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Data Science totaling 120 credit hours. Full-time students can spend four years completing this degree program. The acceptance rate at Indiana State is 94%, with a graduation rate of 46%.

Indiana State uses Canvas to deliver asynchronous and synchronous online courses. The Data Science concentration helps students build data analysis skills and knowledge. Some of the program’s courses include Programming Structures, Computer Organization, and Artificial Intelligence. Students will take two senior design courses to graduate. Graduates may pursue careers like database developers, business data analysts, and machine learning engineers.

University of North Dakota

  • Annual Tuition: $15,895
  • Locations: Grand Forks (ND)
  • Accreditation: HLC

The University of North Dakota (UND) is a public university that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science that requires 124 credit hours. Prospective students can expect to spend four years to finish this degree. UND’s acceptance rate is 89%, with a graduation rate of 52%.

At UND, distance learners complete coursework delivered in asynchronous and synchronous formats on Blackboard. This online program’s curriculum provides a strong foundation in programming, databases, cloud computing, high performance computing, and cybersecurity. Example courses include Database Management Systems, Data Mining, and Computer and Network Security. Students must complete a senior project to graduate. Prospective careers include data analysts, data architects, and database administrators.

Maryville University

  • Annual Tuition: $28,470
  • Locations: St. Louis (MO)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Maryville University is a private, nonprofit institution with an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science equaling 128 credit hours. It can take around four years for students to complete this program with a full schedule of classes. Maryville accepts 92% of applicants, with 57% graduating. Students can minor in business or complete an actuarial science concentration.

The university facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning on the learning management system Canvas. In this program, students complete hands-on experience through integrative projects they complete each course. Example coursework includes SAS Programming, Machine Learning, and Experimental Design. Graduates may pursue careers like data strategists, chief information officers, and data warehouse analysts.

Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis

  • Annual Tuition: $30,710
  • Locations: Indianapolis (IN)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) is a public institution that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science requiring 120 credit hours. Full-time students can spend four years finishing this program. The acceptance rate at IUPUI is 84%, with a 52% graduation rate.

At IUPUI, online students complete courses delivered asynchronously and synchronously on Canvas. Students will learn to create programs that perform data analyses. Sample courses include Applications of Data Mining, Database Management, and Data Fluency. Students have the option to complete a practicum/internship or a capstone. Prospective careers include business intelligence analysts, analytics managers, and research analysts.

Berkeley College

  • Annual Tuition: $26,500
  • Locations: Multiple Locations
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

At Berkeley College — a private, for-profit institution — future students can pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Business Data Science totaling 120 credit hours. The program offers two concentrations: (1) business analytics and (2) artificial intelligence. Prospective students can expect to spend four years completing this degree. The acceptance rate at Berkeley is 100%, and it maintains a graduation rate of 40%.

Berkeley’s online students use the learning management system Canvas to complete courses asynchronously and synchronously. This online data science bachelor's program prepares students to become sought-after employees in an emerging career field. Some of the program’s courses include SQL and Managing Data, Object-Oriented Programming, and Applied Deep Learning and Chatbots. Potential careers include CIS analysts, operation research analysts, and application developers.

Salem University

  • Annual Tuition: $16,700
  • Locations: Salem (WV)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Salem University is a private, for-profit university offering an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Data Science that requires 120 credit hours. It can take four years to finish this degree with a full schedule of classes. Salem accepts 100% of applicants, with 28% graduating.

The university uses a learning management system to deliver asynchronous and synchronous online courses. A bachelor’s in data science helps students learn to work with and analyze different data sets. Example courses include Business Intelligence, Security Data Science, and Data Analytics. An internship may be required for graduation. Graduates may go on to pursue careers like software programmers, database administrators, and systems managers.

South College

  • Annual Tuition: $17,025
  • Locations: Multiple Locations
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

South College is a private, for-profit institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Data Science, which totals 184.5 credit hours. Full-time students can complete this program within 42 months. The college accepts 100% of applicants, with 38% graduating.

At South College, online students complete courses available asynchronously and synchronously on the learning management system Canvas. The program teaches students how to extract information from different data. Example courses include Relational Databases, Predictive Analytics, and Business Intelligence. Graduates may go on to careers like data mining analysts, data modelers, and data scientists.

University of Advancing Technology

  • Annual Tuition: $17,322
  • Locations: Tempe (AZ)
  • Accreditation: HLC

The University of Advancing Technology (UAT) is a private, for-profit university with an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science requiring 120 credit hours. Completing this program with a full class load can take around four years. The acceptance rate at UAT is 91%, and the school has a 36% graduation rate.

UAT facilitates online learning on the learning management system Moodle. In this program, students develop data science applications. Some of the program’s courses include Mobile Development for Android, Big Data Essentials, and Cloud Computing. Potential career options include data visualization developers, business intelligence analysts, and data strategists.

City University of Seattle

  • Annual Tuition: $11,430
  • Locations: Seattle (WA)
  • Accreditation: NWCCU

The City University of Seattle (CityU) is a private, nonprofit institution that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science equaling 180 credit hours. This program can take full-time students four years to complete their studies. CityU’s acceptance rate is 100%, with a graduation rate of 36%.

At CityU, online students complete courses delivered in asynchronous and synchronous formats on D2L Brightspace. This program is designed for students seeking to enter the high-demand field of data science. Sample courses include Networking Communications, Artificial Intelligence, and Big Data Systems. An internship and a capstone course are required for graduation. Future careers may include computer systems analysts, database administrators, and application architects.

Capitol Technology University

  • Annual Tuition: $26,308
  • Locations: Laurel (MD)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

Capitol Technology University is a private, nonprofit university offering an online Bachelor of Science in Data Science, which totals 122 credit hours. Typically students take four years to complete this program if they keep up with a full schedule of classes. Capitol’s acceptance rate is 47%, and its graduation rate is 50%.

At Capitol, online students complete courses delivered asynchronously and synchronously on Canvas. This program gives students the skills or knowledge to become data scientists or machine learning engineers. Some of the program’s courses are Data Visualization, Database Management, and Programming in C. A capstone project is required for graduation. Prospective careers include data scientists, machine learning engineers, and enterprise architects.

Find an Online Degree:

Overview of Online Data Science Degrees

What Is Data Science?

Over the last decade, big data has become essential to the functioning of different organizations. Data science degrees, in turn, train students how to help these organizations meet their informational needs. While undergraduate programs typically cover fundamental concepts in data collection and analysis, graduate ones offer students the chance to conduct original research or gain specialized training in technical areas such as data mining, data engineering, or data management. Overall, a degree in data science can equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter a vast and growing field.

It's a common misconception that data science is solely about applying statistics to large amounts of information. In fact, data science is a fast-evolving, multidisciplinary domain that includes aspects of computer engineering — such as machine learning and artificial intelligence — as well as advanced math, economics, and business concepts. Combining insights from these disciplines, this field looks at the science behind gathering, processing, analyzing, and communicating data to help organizations and individuals make well-informed decisions.



Data science is a fast-evolving domain that includes aspects of computer engineering as well as advanced math, economics, and business concepts.


There are, therefore, two distinguishing features of data science. The first is its emphasis on using technology to structure and draw insights from different sources of information. The second, more distinctive aspect of this field is its focus on the entire data life cycle, from collection to communication.

What Will I Learn in a Data Science Program?

Data science programs generally include coursework in the broad subfields of machine learning, computer science, statistical research, math, and data processing. Common classes in these areas can include data systems, artificial intelligence, statistics in machine learning, and advanced data analytics. Aside from gaining this technical knowledge, students may also have the chance to develop their business, communication, and critical thinking skills.

While these learning outcomes may be common across several programs, data science curricula are constantly evolving to reflect advancements in technology and business. Moreover, degrees at different levels cover data science theories and subjects in varying amounts of detail, with undergraduate programs including introductory classes and graduate ones offering more room to explore individual areas of interest. As a result, data science curricula can differ significantly from program to program.

Earning a Data Science Degree Online

There are some clear advantages to earning a data science degree online. First, online data science programs have the same curriculum and requirements as on-campus ones, and are therefore just as likely to be valued by future employers. Additionally, the flexible learning format can suit non-traditional students who work full-time or have family responsibilities. As a discipline that involves, in part, learning how to apply computer science theory, some aspects of data science may also translate well onto the online learning format.

Nevertheless, distance learners who take all their classes online should expect a much different learning environment than their on-campus peers. For instance, there may be far fewer opportunities to network with fellow students or interact with faculty members. Completing assignments and coursework alone, moreover, may also feel isolating or daunting to some. While many programs include regular check-ins with faculty members, dedicated communication boards, and 24/7 tech support to make learning easier, distance learners should remember that earning a degree online requires self-discipline, time management, and motivation.

See our resources hub for more information and support, including scholarship guides for college students and information on applying to online schools.

What Can I Do With a Data Science Degree?

If an organization uses data or information to market products, make strategic decisions, or analyze industry trends, chances are it employs a team of data scientists. This means graduates with a data science degree can find employment in numerous sectors, including business, government, and nonprofits. Moreover, with a strong set of technical abilities, as well as soft skills in areas such as communication and problem solving, they can also explore careers of a non-technical nature. For example, in addition to working as database administrators or statisticians, they may be qualified for careers in market research, business strategy, and product development.



Graduates with a data science degree can find employment in numerous sectors, including business, government, and nonprofits.


With a large number of opportunities available, it's important to remember that some careers may be tied to degree level. While individuals with an undergraduate credential may be ready to apply for entry-level positions that require basic data literacy, mid-level roles may require applicants to have the sort of advanced knowledge and experience gained in a master's program. Those who are determined to work in research or academia, meanwhile, will typically require a doctorate.

Is a Data Science Degree Worth it?

An accredited data science degree can prepare you for a lucrative career in technology. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that individuals employed in computing and information technology professions make an annual median salary of $97,430, which is more than double the national average for all occupations. But aside from earning potential, the value of a data science degree will also depend on your career goals, personal circumstances, and financial situation. Below is a list of potential pros and cons that can help you decide whether a data science degree is right for you.

Potential Advantages

  • A data science degree can help you secure many different types of computing occupations. Since students gain a range of skills related to data collection, analysis, and communication, they often qualify for multiple job opportunities related to information technology.

  • Demand for data scientists is expected to remain high. Degree holders may find a booming labor market when they graduate, and, with employment opportunities expected to increase by over 11% through 2031, aspiring data scientists have an optimistic job outlook.

  • Data science is an exciting field full of chances to innovate. If you're a creative person that enjoys a challenge, this constantly evolving field may align with your personality and career goals.

Potential Drawbacks

  • Without certification, a data science degree alone may not make you a competitive job candidate. Though voluntary, data science certifications can give you an edge on the job market by showing employers you have formalized training in a specific area. However, these require time and money to earn.

  • As a data scientist, your job description may be blurry. This is a relatively young field in which professionals are still crafting their roles and responsibilities. If you prefer a career with more day-to-day certainty, data science may not be the right fit.

FAQs about Data Science Degrees

How Hard Is a Data Science Degree?


A data science degree — particularly one at the graduate level — can be challenging for some students. Data science is an interdisciplinary field which is based heavily on learning advanced math concepts and computer science theory, as well as gaining hands-on experience with research methods. The technical nature of these subjects can make data science concepts hard to grasp for those who don't have much real-world or academic experience in STEM-related fields.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Science Degree?


Time to completion depends primarily on the degree level. Full-time students can finish a bachelor's degree in four years, while those enrolled in associate or master's programs can earn their respective credentials in two years. As mentioned above, doctoral programs take significantly longer given the number of requirements students need to meet in order to graduate. Part-time students who take fewer courses per semester typically take longer than these average completion times.

Can I Get a Data Science Job Without a Degree?


With a shortage of skilled data analysts in the labor market, it may be possible to land a job without a degree. Bootcamps, for instance, are designed to train students in data science techniques, and some even help with job placement. However, without a formal data science education, you may not be able to advance your career or gain voluntary certifications that can make you a competitive candidate for higher level positions. A data science degree may also prepare you to better meet evolving organizational needs in this field, making graduates with this credential more employable.

ADVERTISEMENT

Start Your Online College Search:

Review schools that align with your career aspirations.