Are Online Data Analytics Degrees Legitimate?

Students completing a degree in data analytics are positioned at the forefront of the digital economy. Distance learning programs are a flexible and efficient way to learn but some students wonder if online data analytics degrees are legitimate.

Yes, online data analytics degrees are legitimate as long as they are accredited. Thankfully, many world-class data analytics programs can be completed entirely online. Learning more about fully accredited, respected online data analytics programs is the first step toward selecting a degree that fits your needs.

Do Employers Respect Online Data Analytics Degrees?

Yes, employers do not distinguish between online and traditional data analytics degrees. Most online data analytics degrees will not show the format the degree was earned in.

Because online students must complete the same courses and requirements as any other students, the degrees they earn are just as valuable. Employers will be far more interested in the job-relevant skills a candidate has gained from their education than the learning format.

What To Look For in an Online Data Analytics Degree Program

Here are some important factors to keep in mind when comparing online data analytics programs. Each program will have strengths and weaknesses but understanding general indicators of quality can help you identify reputable programs.

Accreditation

Accreditation should be a non-negotiable factor when considering any online data analytics program. Accreditation is a process that allows a third party to assess the quality of a program to ensure that it meets rigorous standards. Reputable colleges and universities will be regionally accredited at an institutional level that covers all degrees offered by the institution.

A specific department may also earn additional accreditation relating to an industry or area of study. Online data analytics programs may be accredited by the Data Science Council of America (DASCA) in addition to the regional accreditation held by the university. Domain-specific accreditations such as DASCA are an important sign of reputation but it is not as crucial as institutional accreditation.

Reputation

Reputation is another factor to consider when evaluating online data analytics programs. Reputation is not as clear cut as accreditation or graduation rates so different students may perceive the reputation of different programs differently.

Online data analytics programs with strong reputations may have stronger industry partnerships and larger alumni networks. Make sure to consider the reputation of the specific program, not just the reputation of the entire institution. Check to see if an institution has won any awards or has any notable alumni or faculty to get a sense of the reputation of the program.

Nonprofit Vs. For-Profit Degrees

For-profit universities are funded by investors and rely primarily on tuition fees for income. Nonprofit universities, which include public universities and the majority of private universities, are not designed to create income and may receive federal funding.

Both nonprofit and for-profit programs can be accredited and legitimate. For-profit universities sometimes offer more flexible learning formats such as online learning or accelerated learning degrees.

Graduation Rates

Graduation rates are one way to assess the support an online data analytics program provides to its students. Higher graduation rates likely indicate an appropriate admissions process and thoughtfully designed course loads.

Graduation rates may also provide some indication of the level of investment students and even faculty bring to the program. Prestigious programs will be attended by highly motivated students who will do their best to complete the degree.

Differences Between Online Data Analytics Degrees and Traditional Data Analytics Degrees

Because data analytics is a technology-based domain, the differences between online and traditional data analytics programs are minimal. Online data analytics programs will cover the same content as traditional programs and may even be taught by the same instructors.

One potential difference between online and traditional programs is access to the high-powered computers some universities have in campus laboratories. Online data analytics students should make sure their personal computer has sufficient specifications to conduct the required forms of data analysis.

Benefits of Earning Your Data Analytics Degree at an Online School

Students completing online data analytics degrees will become proficient with cloud systems and remote working platforms. Modern data analysts will likely use similar systems in the workplace so studying data analytics online can provide a competitive advantage.

Featured Online Data Analytics Degree Programs

Here are some highly regarded online data analytics programs.

1. Purdue Global

Purdue Global is an excellent choice for students looking for an online degree in data analytics. This 100% online program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Students will benefit from virtual labs that offer real-world experience in a controlled environment.

Students can enroll in degrees such as:

• Analytics - B.S.
• Analytics - B.S. Excel Track
• Data Analytics - M.S.

2. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). WGU offers an online bachelor's and master's degree in data analytics that provides additional certifications as part of the program at no extra cost.

The two online degrees available are:

• Data Analytics - B.S.
• Data Analytics - M.S.

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Students should consider Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) when searching for a respected online data analytics degree. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

They offer online degrees in:

• Data Analytics - A.S.
• Data Analytics - B.S.
• Data Analytics - M.S.
• Business Analytics - M.B.A.

4. Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus is a respected and credible online university that is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Online courses are the same courses as in-person programs, ensuring online students learn the same material.

• Functional Data Analytics - B.S.
• Data Analytics - M.S.
• Marketing Analytics and Insights - M.S.

5. Arizona State University

Earning an online degree in data analytics from Arizona State University can set you up for a successful career. Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Business Data Analytics - B.S.
• Program Evaluation and Data Analytics - M.S.
• Business Analytics - M.S.B.A.
• Accountancy and Data Analytics - M.A.C.C.