10 Affordable Online Master's in Data Analytics Degrees 2025

Data analytics master's degrees teach students how to solve real-world problems and drive business decisions by analyzing and interpreting data. While many graduate-level programs are offered in traditional campus settings, some schools make it possible to earn this degree online ?and at an affordable price. If you're interested in earning a master's degree in data analytics, keep reading to discover low-cost online degree options offered nationwide.

What Is an Online Master's Degree in Data Analytics?

An online master's degree in data analytics is a graduate-level program designed for students interested in data-driven careers. Instead of attending classes on campus, students in these programs explore coursework in a 100% online or partially online learning environment.

If you're interested in earning a master's degree in data analytics online, you can expect to learn the same concepts covered in campus-based programs. Some include statistical analysis, applied machine learning, business intelligence, and data mining. Upon graduation, you'll qualify for data analyst, IT project manager, and many other roles.

How Much Does an Online Master's Degree in Data Analytics Cost?

The amount you'll pay to earn an online master's in data analytics varies based on several factors. Schools often charge different rates depending on where a student lives (in-state vs. out-of-state) and their enrollment status (part-time vs. full-time). If you're looking for a low-cost program, several are available at schools nationwide, including Eastern University and New Mexico State University, which both charge less than $500 per credit hour.

Cheapest Online Master's Degrees in Data Analytics

Are you ready to pursue an online master's in data analytics? Review the schools below to discover the nation's top programs.

1. Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers a Master of Science in data analytics (MSDA) program, designed for students who want to learn the data analytics lifecycle, data mining techniques, data management, and more. Coursework explores machine learning and programming languages, such as Python, SQL, and Tableau.

In this program, students follow a unique competency-based format. Instead of taking courses each semester, learners complete competency units, one at a time, as they master the material.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,565 per six-month term
• Financial aid: In addition to affordable tuition, WGU offers scholarships and federal financial aid to help students save.
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Eastern University

At Eastern University, students interested in an accelerated degree can pursue the MSDA, which offers the self-paced LifeFlex modality, enabling learners to finish their studies in as little as 10 months.

Coursework delivered in this 30-credit program prepares learners for careers in business analytics, market analysis, and business intelligence by developing key analytical skills through mastery of statistics, predictive analytics, and data visualization. Students also gain important technical skills through the study of R, SQL, Tableau, and Python.

• Estimated tuition cost: $330 per credit hour ($9,900 total)
• Financial aid: Enrollees can reduce tuition and fees with federal and state financial aid as well as military benefits.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University's online Master of Science (MS) in data analytics is a 30-credit, 12-month program that explores techniques for identifying, collecting, analyzing, and transforming data. Coursework focuses on data analytics fundamentals, web mining, and streaming data, and includes a data analytics capstone project.

To enroll, students must have a bachelor's degree, a GPA of 2.75, and official transcripts. GRE/GMAT waivers are available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $407 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Federal student aid (e.g., work-study jobs and loans) can help graduate students save on tuition and fees.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. New Mexico State University

New Mexico State University is home to a 100% online Master of Data Analytics program that students can complete in as little as one and a half years. This 30-credit degree teaches R programming, data mining, statistical analysis, and data management systems, and includes a capstone experience.

Enrollees gain cutting-edge technical skills and learn to apply theories and methodologies to real-world data-rich environments as they prepare to work as data analysts, analytics officers, data scientists, and system analysts.

• Estimated tuition cost: $444.40 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Online students at NMSU can pursue loans, grants, scholarships, and other aid to save.
• Accreditation: HLC

5. State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Students interested in careers in project management, data mining, and big data analytics can get the necessary training through SUNY Plattsburgh's 11-month MS in data analytics degree, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

Available online and on campus, this program teaches modeling, advanced data queries, data visualization, and more. Learners also complete a semester-long integrative capstone project with industry and government partners, and can earn data analytics certification.

• Estimated tuition cost: $471 per credit hour (in-state); $963 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Graduate assistantships, fellowships, and the Graduate Opportunity Program (GOP), alongside federal student aid, can help students save.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

6. Southern New Hampshire University

At Southern New Hampshire University, the MS in data analytics program prepares students for advanced roles in data analytics, operations research analysis, and statistical analysis. This online degree consists of short 10-week courses that explore predictive analytics, data visualization, problem-solving, risk assessment, and more. In addition to affordable tuition, enrollees benefit from the ability to accelerate degree completion via a generous transfer policy and prior learning credits.

• Estimated tuition cost: $659 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Scholarships, federal loans, and employer tuition assistance can help students reduce tuition and fees.
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

7. Franklin University

Franklin University offers a 100% online MS in data analytics designed for completion in 19 months. Students explore coursework in statistical analysis, data mining, big data analytics, and applied machine learning, culminating in a capstone that enables them to showcase their competency in key data analytics domains.

In this self-paced program, learners can take six- or 12-week courses in any order they desire. To meet graduate admissions requirements, students should possess a bachelor's degree and, preferably, a 2.5 GPA.

• Estimated tuition cost: $670 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Federal aid and scholarships are available to increase affordability at Franklin University.
• Accreditation: HLC

8. University of Maryland Global Campus

The MSDA at the University of Maryland Global Campus is a 24-month online degree exploring predictive modeling, machine learning, data management, and more. The graduate program's capstone project showcases students' understanding of data analytics courses through peer-reviewed presentations and an analytics report.

Learners who want to enhance their academic experience can add a graduate certificate to their degree program by completing four elective courses in areas of study like digital forensics and cybersecurity technology.

• Estimated tuition cost: $694 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Institutional scholarships, federal financial aid, and veterans benefits can reduce costs at UMGC.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

9. University of Wisconsin-Parkside

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside's 100% online AACSB-accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) in data analytics is designed for students pursuing specialized roles as business analysts, data analysts, and advanced analytics professionals. Foundation courses, core courses, and electives explore finance, project management, data analysis, and more.

Admission requirements for this master's program include possessing a bachelor's degree and a minimum GPA. GMAT scores aren't needed to apply.

• Estimated tuition cost: $762 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students can use federal financial aid to lower the cost of this program.
• Accreditation: HLC

10. University of Michigan-Flint

The MS in data analytics from the University of Michigan-Flint is a 100% online program focused on deep learning, algorithms, database design, and more. To focus their studies, enrollees can choose from three concentrations: business analytics, geospatial analytics, and health care analytics.

The program offers the opportunity to participate in research projects with faculty members. To enroll, learners need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.

• Estimated tuition cost: $771.75 per credit hour (in-state); $1,156 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and research assistantships can lower program costs. The university also offers a non-resident graduate tuition scholarship covering up to 100% of in-state tuition for out-of-state learners.
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

Our team rigorously vetted the schools in this ranking list to verify that each has met the following criteria for delivering a high-quality academic experience:

• Accreditation: All institutions are accredited by nationally recognized organizations, such as the NECHE or the SACSCOC.
• Affordability: These colleges and universities provide low tuition rates or financial assistance to reduce costs for graduate students.
• Program reputation: Every school has a reputation for providing quality learning experiences for online and on-campus students, with some offering AACSB-accredited programs.

What To Expect From an Online Master's in Data Analytics Degree

Online master's programs generally cover the same concepts as their traditional campus-based counterparts. These degrees aim to develop students' technical and analytical skills through coursework in computer science, artificial intelligence, and data-driven topics, such as data management, business analytics, and data visualization.

On average, a data analytics master's degree program requires students to complete 30 credit hours over two years. However, many schools offer accelerated programs enabling students to earn their degrees in a year or less. Concentrations you might encounter include healthcare analytics, data science, and analytics programming.

FAQs About Online Master's in Data Analytics Programs

If you're ready to take the next step toward enrollment in a data analytics master's degree program, read on. The following FAQs can give you more information before getting started.

Is an Online Master's in Data Analytics Worth It?

Yes, earning an online master's in data analytics is worth it. These programs explore key concepts in the field and prepare students for advanced roles while allowing them to enjoy flexible scheduling and access to coursework from anywhere with an internet connection.

Are Data Analysts in Demand?

Yes, data analysts, who are often categorized as statisticians, are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the overall employment of statisticians and mathematicians is projected to jump 11% through 2033. This growth is much faster than average for all occupations.

Do Online Data Analytics Programs Include Real-World Projects or Internships?

While some programs include real-world projects or internships, many include a capstone project that enables students to simulate scenarios encountered in business settings. For example, Northwest Missouri State University offers a capstone that asks learners to apply data analytics knowledge to a real-world dataset.

How Long Does It Take To Complete a Master's Degree in Data Analytics Online?

The time needed to complete a master's degree in data analytics varies by school, program, and factors like enrollment status (part-time vs. full-time). On average, a program might take about two years to complete. However, you can find accelerated programs taking less than a year. Competency-based programs are also available that allow students to navigate coursework at their own pace.

What Can I Do With a Master's Degree in Data Analytics?

A master's degree in data analytics can lead to various career opportunities. A few job options for students who complete this degree include:

• data analyst
• statistician
• data scientist
• IT project manager
• data architect
• machine learning data scientist
• program management analyst
• data engineer
• business intelligence analyst

Discover Online Data Analytics Degrees

Begin an exciting journey toward a data analytics career by exploring the degree programs on Learn.org. Contact schools of interest today to find out how they can help you reach your career goals.