7 Best Online Data Science Degrees in California

Data scientists collect, analyze, store, and manage data. To become a data science professional, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree, which you can earn from home by enrolling in one of the best online data science degree programs.

If you're wanting to study through an online college in California, you have a few options. Keep reading to discover online data science programs in California.

Best Online Data Science Programs in California

Multiple colleges and universities in California offer online data science degree programs, including online data science master's degrees. We've highlighted some of the top programs below.

1. National University

National University is a private, nonprofit university in San Diego. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in data science with three specializations: bioinformatics, cybersecurity, and machine learning and artificial intelligence.

All students complete a capstone project and take coursework that covers topics like:

• data acquisition
• data management
• data mining
• data visualization

In addition to the bachelor's degree, the university offers a master's program in data science online or on-campus. This online Master of Science degree includes specializations in artificial intelligence and optimization, business science and analytics, database science and analytics, and health science and analytics.

2. San Diego State University

Students at San Diego State University can earn an online Master of Science in big data analytics through the university's global campus. SDSU is a public research university based in San Diego.

This online data science master's program includes courses on data management, Python scripting, and machine learning for big data. Students are also required to complete research projects and a capstone seminar.

3. San Jose State University

At San Jose State University, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in information science and data analytics 100% online. This degree provides a foundation in the analysis, management, and interpretation of data.

The online program includes coursework on big data analysis, cybersecurity, and information technology. SJSU is a public research university, and this program is offered through its School of Information.

4. University of California San Diego

The University of California San Diego offers very few online degrees, but one of these is a Master of Data Science. This graduate program includes data science courses on topics like:

• big data analytics
• data management
• machine learning
• statistical modeling

The program concludes with a capstone project in data science. UCSD is a public research university in San Diego.

5. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego is another school located in San Diego. This private Catholic research university offers a Master of Science in applied data science online.

This graduate program includes data science courses on data mining, machine learning, and data engineering. It concludes with a capstone project.

6. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is possibly the most well-known private university in the state. It offers an in-person and online Master of Science in applied data science that includes coursework on algorithms, information systems, and data mining.

The program is offered through USC's Viterbi School of Engineering. USC is located in Los Angeles.

7. UMass Global

UMass Global is an online private university affiliated with the public University of Massachusetts. However, the online college is based in Aliso Viejo, CA.

It offers a Bachelor of Science in information technology, with a specialization in data science. This undergraduate degree is offered in the university's self-paced MyPath format and it covers topics that include business intelligence, business analytics, and data visualization.

While UMass Global does not offer a master's degree specifically in data science, it does offer a Master of Science in GIS and data analytics and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in business intelligence and data analytics.

FAQs About Online Data Science Degree Programs

Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about online data science degree programs.

Is an Online Data Science Degree Worth It?

For many students, earning an online degree in data science and analytics is worthwhile. These programs teach students the technical and soft skills needed to become data science professionals, like critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.

An online data science degree can lead to data science jobs like:

• data scientist
• data analyst
• business analyst
• cybersecurity expert
• healthcare informatics manager
• software engineer
• computer programming analyst

What Is the Best Type of Degree for Data Science?

Generally, the best type of degree for a career path in data science is a data science degree. This provides an interdisciplinary education that covers computer science, information technology, statistics, data sets, and business.

However, data science degrees are still relatively new, so other majors you can pursue include:

• data analytics
• business analytics
• information systems
• information technology
• computer science
• statistics

Read more: What Can I Do With a Data Science Degree?

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

A master's degree is a type of graduate degree. With a master's degree in data science, you'll receive an advanced education in the data science field.

Some programs offer full-time and part-time options so you can attend graduate school on your own schedule. To enroll in a graduate degree program, you'll first need an undergraduate degree. You may also need to meet minimum GPA requirements in that program.

Other admissions requirements may include submitting GRE or GMAT scores, detailing your work experience, writing a personal essay, or sending letters of recommendation.

Find Online Data Science Degree Programs Today

Start working with data sets today by exploring the online data science degree programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools today for more information, such as enrollment steps, start dates, and financial aid.