8 Best Online Data Science Degrees in Florida
Students in Florida can choose from a number of in-state colleges and universities that offer flexible, online bachelor's and master's degrees in data science.
Data science is an ever-evolving field concerned with collecting, analyzing, and managing data. It combines elements of computer science, information technology, and statistics.
More and more colleges are offering online data science degrees, including colleges in Florida. Keep reading to discover the best online data science degree programs in the Sunshine State.
Best Online Data Science Degree Programs in Florida
Students in Florida can earn online data science degrees, including online data science master's degrees through several colleges and universities within the state. We've highlighted some of the best of these programs below.
1. Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University is a public research university in Boca Raton, FL. It offers an online Master of Science in data science and analytics that includes coursework on:
- business analytics and big data
- cybersecurity
- data mining and machine learning
- statistical analysis
Students can choose between two concentrations: data science and engineering and data science and analytics. They also have the option of completing a research thesis.
2. Herzing University
Although its headquartered in Wisconsin, Herzing University has campuses throughout the U.S., including one in Tampa and another in Winter Park, FL. The private, nonprofit university offers an online bachelor's degree in data analytics, which covers topics like information technology, data analysis, and Python programming.
Additionally, the university offers an online, graduate-level business analytics program. Students gain a foundation in business intelligence with courses that tackle topics, such as database systems and artificial intelligence.
3. Lynn University
At Lynn University, students can earn an online undergraduate degree in data analytics, which prepares students to make informed business decisions. The online program has a strong base in business intelligence.
Students will also take courses on data mining, data management, data visualization, and information systems. Lynn University is a private, nonprofit university in Boca Raton, FL.
4. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University is a private research university based in Fort Lauderdale, FL. It offers an online master's degree in data analytics and artificial intelligence that includes coursework on:
- algorithms and data structures
- database systems
- information science
- machine learning and deep learning
Students in the graduate program are required to complete a capstone project. The university offers this program in an accelerated format that allows full-time students to finish within one year.
5. Southeastern University
Southeastern University is a private school that offers both a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration online and in-person. The non-profit Christian university is located in Lakeland, FL.
The bachelor's and master's degree programs have a strong business intelligence core. Beyond that, students take courses in data analysis and programming.
6. University of Miami
At the University of Miami, students can earn an online master's degree in data analytics. It includes courses on computer science, statistical analysis, and regression methods.
The program concludes with a two-part capstone project; the first part covers data collection, while the second covers data analysis. The University of Miami is a private, nonprofit university based in Coral Gables, FL.
7. University of West Florida
The University of West Florida is a public university in Pensacola, FL. It offers an online data science graduate degree that offers three tracks: analytics and modeling, analytics of business decisions, and healthcare analytics.
All concentrations take core courses on statistical modeling and modeling in regression and finish with a capstone project. While UWF doesn't offer an online bachelor's degree in data science, it does offer an undergraduate certificate that requires 12 credit hours.
8. University of South Florida
Students at the University of South Florida can earn an online Master of Business Administration with a specialization in data analytics online. This program includes online courses in business, as well as core courses and electives in:
- data analysis
- data management
- data mining
- data visualization
USF is a public research university based in Tampa, FL. It also offers an online master's degree in health informatics as well as online graduate certificates in big data analytics and artificial intelligence.
FAQs About Online Data Science Programs
Below, we've answered a few frequently asked questions about online data science programs.
Is an Online Data Science Degree Worth It?
For many students, an online data science degree is ''worth it'' for several reasons. First, these programs help students develop key soft skills such as critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving, that are necessary for a range of career paths.
Next, they provide a core foundation in working with data sets, artificial intelligence, and algorithms � all of which can lead to jobs like data analysts or data engineers, which the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts will be in high demand over the next decade.
What Is the Best Degree for a Data Scientist?
The best degree for a data scientist is usually a bachelor's degree in data science. However, sometimes these majors can be hard to find, in which case you can pursue majors like:
- data analytics
- information technology
- computer science
- business analytics
- statistics
Students who complete their bachelor's degree may decide to continue their studies in graduate school. A master's or even a doctoral degree in data science can help you further your career and reach your goals in the data science field.
What Is the Best Type of Online Data Science Degree?
The best type of online data science degree will depend on your current schedule and your overall career goals. However, most students prefer programs with asynchronous courses, which don't require you to log in at a specific time. Instead, you have due dates and can complete coursework at any time before the due date.
Outside of that, some students prefer a full-time schedule, while others prefer part-time. Some like having completely online classes, while others prefer a more hybrid format.
If you have a specific career path in mind, you may want to look for programs with specializations or concentrations; however, many will still let you choose a certain number of electives so you can still tailor your program to your career goals.
Find an Online Bachelor's Degree in Data Science Today
Start your journey toward a career in data science today by exploring the online data science programs featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools today to learn more about their online programs.