10 Affordable Master's in Data Analytics Degrees in Florida

Florida has built one of the strongest public university systems in the country, and that strength extends directly to graduate programs in data analytics. Between a wide network of state schools and a few standout private nonprofit options, the state offers some of the most affordable data analytics degrees available anywhere, without asking you to sacrifice program quality or accreditation to get there.

This guide covers what you can expect to pay for a data analytics master's degree in Florida, the factors that keep tuition low at certain schools, and a closer look at some of the state's most affordable programs. You'll also find details on financing your degree, what you'll study along the way, and answers to the questions prospective students tend to ask before committing to a program. Keep reading to get the full picture before you apply.

How Much Does a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Cost in Florida?

Florida's public university system keeps per-credit tuition remarkably consistent and low across most of its data analytics master's programs, particularly for in-state residents. Schools within the State University System of Florida generally set graduate tuition through standardized rates approved by the Florida Board of Governors, which helps explain why so many programs across the state land in a similar affordable range. Private nonprofit institutions typically charge more, though a few still compete closely with public tuition rates, especially when factoring in program-specific scholarships or waivers.

Program format plays a role in overall cost as well. Some schools charge the same rate whether you study online or on campus, while others offer accelerated formats or flat program fees that shift the total cost. Most data analytics master's programs in Florida require between 30 and 36 credit hours, so even a modest per-credit difference can add up meaningfully by graduation. Comparing total program cost alongside the per-credit rate, rather than relying on tuition figures alone, gives you the clearest sense of what you'll actually pay.

What Makes a Data Analytics Master’s Degree Affordable in Florida?

Several factors shape what you'll ultimately pay for a data analytics master's degree, and understanding them can help you identify the programs offering the best value. Keep the following in mind as you compare your options:

• Public university status: Schools within Florida's State University System typically offer some of the lowest tuition rates in the country, especially for in-state residents.
• Program format: Online and hybrid formats can reduce costs tied to commuting and campus fees, even in cases where tuition itself stays consistent across formats.
• Residency status: Florida residents generally pay significantly less than out-of-state or international students at public universities, making residency one of the most significant cost factors.
• Credit hour requirements: Programs with fewer required credit hours, or those that accept transfer credit from prior graduate coursework, can shorten your path to a degree and reduce total tuition paid.
• Employer tuition assistance: Many working professionals offset a portion of their tuition through employer reimbursement programs, particularly when coursework directly supports their current role.
• Institutional scholarships and grants: Some schools offer analytics-specific scholarships, assistantships, or tuition waivers that aren't reflected in the sticker price, so it's worth asking directly during the admissions process.

Most Affordable Data Analytics Master’s Programs in Florida

Florida’s low public tuition means that earning a master’s degree doesn't have to put you into deep debt. Below, we've featured some of the most affordable options available, all accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

1. Florida Atlantic University

At Florida Atlantic University (FAU), the Master of Science (MS) in Data Science and Analytics prepares you to collect, process, and interpret large datasets using statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization techniques. The curriculum blends technical coursework with practical application, giving you hands-on experience with the tools and methods employers expect from analytics professionals across industries like healthcare, finance, and technology.

The program is housed within a college that maintains close ties to South Florida's business and technology sectors, giving you access to networking opportunities and real-world project experience. As a public university within Florida's State University System, FAU offers Florida residents a notably low cost of attendance, and the financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, grants, and any scholarships tied specifically to the data science program.

2. Florida Gulf Coast University

FGCU's STEM-designated MBA in Business Analytics blends core business management training with specialized coursework in data analysis, statistical modeling, and business intelligence. You can complete the program in a format that fits your schedule, choosing from face-to-face, synchronous online, or fully asynchronous online course delivery.

The Lutgert College of Business holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction earned by a relatively small share of business schools worldwide. As a public university, FGCU keeps tuition affordable for Florida residents, and the Lutgert College of Business awards a limited number of graduate tuition waivers and assistantships each fall and spring semester, in addition to federal loans and other financial aid options available through the university.

3. Florida International University

Florida International University's Master of Science (MS) in Information Systems offers a Business Analytics specialization, giving you technical training in data mining, predictive modeling, and business intelligence tools alongside core information systems coursework. The program prepares you for roles that combine data expertise with strategic business decision-making across industries like finance, healthcare, and technology.

The College of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International, placing it among a select group of business schools worldwide. As a public university in Florida's State University System, FIU keeps tuition accessible for Florida residents, and the university's financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, scholarships, and other funding options for graduate students.

4. Florida Polytechnic University

As Florida's only all-STEM public university, Florida Poly's Master of Science in Data Science offers both thesis and non-thesis pathways, letting you tailor the program to whether you want a research-focused or course-based experience. The curriculum trains you to apply advanced data science methods and computational techniques to complex, high-dimensional datasets, with a mix of evening in-person and online instruction designed for working professionals.

Beyond regional accreditation, the program benefits from Florida Poly's singular focus on STEM education, giving you access to faculty and resources concentrated entirely on technical fields. Notably, Florida Poly charges the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students, which makes it one of the more predictable options on this list from a budgeting standpoint. The university's financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, scholarships, and other funding opportunities available to graduate students.

5. Florida State University

Florida State University's (FSU) STEM-designated Master of Science in Business Analytics prepares you to apply statistical and computational methods to solve real business problems, with coursework spanning data mining, predictive modeling, and data-driven decision-making. The program is designed to be completed in a relatively short timeframe, making it a strong option if you want to move quickly from enrollment to graduation.

The College of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International, reflecting a high standard of academic rigor and teaching quality. As one of Florida's flagship public universities, FSU offers Florida residents a notably affordable path to a data-focused master's degree, and the financial aid office can walk you through federal loans, scholarships, and other funding options available to graduate students.

6. University of Central Florida 

University of Central Florida's (UCF) STEM-designated Master of Science in Business Analytics equips you with skills in data mining, predictive modeling, and data visualization, all applied through the lens of real business decision-making. The program is built for students coming from a range of academic backgrounds, whether your undergraduate degree was technical or business-focused.

The College of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International, a distinction held by a relatively small share of business schools globally. As one of the largest public universities in the country, UCF offers Florida residents an especially low cost of attendance, and the financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, scholarships, and other funding options to help cover the cost of your degree.

7. University of Florida 

At the University of Florida, (UF), the MS in Business Analytics prepares you to apply statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization techniques to real business challenges, with coursework designed around the tools and methods employers actively look for. As one of the state's flagship research universities, UF gives you access to a strong alumni network and connections across a wide range of industries.

The Warrington College of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International, a distinction earned by a relatively small share of business schools worldwide. As a public university, UF offers Florida residents a comparatively affordable path to this degree, and the financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, scholarships, and other funding options available to graduate students.

8. University of North Florida

University of North Florida's (UNF) Master of Science in Business Analytics prepares you to turn complex data into clear business insights, with a curriculum grounded in data science, statistical modeling, and real-world application. You can complete the 30-credit-hour program through in-person or online delivery, giving you flexibility to fit coursework around your schedule.

The Coggin College of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International, reflecting a high standard of academic quality. As a public university, UNF keeps tuition accessible for Florida residents, and the financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, scholarships, and other funding opportunities available to graduate students. 

9. University of South Florida

University of South Florida's (USF) STEM-designated MS in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics trains you to apply AI and analytics techniques to real business problems, with coursework spanning machine learning, data mining, and business intelligence. The program is offered through both a full-time on-campus track and a weekend executive option, giving working professionals a path to complete the degree without pausing their careers.

The Muma College of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International, placing it among a select group of business schools worldwide. As a major public research university, USF offers Florida residents an accessible cost of attendance, and the financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, scholarships, and other funding options available to graduate students. 

10. University of West Florida

At the University of West Florida, the MS in Data Science prepares you to apply statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization techniques to solve real-world problems across industries. You can complete the program through face-to-face or online delivery, giving you flexibility to choose the format that best fits your schedule and learning style.

UWF's data science program benefits from the university's broader accreditation credentials and a curriculum built around current industry-relevant tools and techniques. As a public university, UWF offers Florida residents one of the more affordable paths to this degree in the state, and the financial aid office can help you explore federal loans, scholarships, and other funding options available to graduate students.      

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

For data analytics master's programs specifically, we look for::

• Accreditation: We confirm that each school holds regional accreditation from SACSCOC, and we note any program-specific accreditation, such as AACSB, that adds credibility to the business or analytics curriculum.
• Affordability and financial aid: We compare per-credit tuition rates, total program costs, and the financial aid, scholarships, and funding options each school makes available to students.
• Student outcomes: We look at graduation rates, post-graduation employment data, and the career paths alumni pursue after completing their degree.

Learn more about our ranking methodology.

What Will You Learn in a Data Analytics Master’s Program?

A data analytics master's program builds the technical and strategic skills needed to turn raw data into insights organizations can act on. Across the programs featured on this list, coursework typically covers:

• Statistical modeling and analysis: Methods for interpreting data and drawing reliable conclusions from it.
• Programming languages: Hands-on work with Python, R, or SQL to manipulate and query large datasets.
• Data visualization tools: Building dashboards and reports using platforms like Tableau or Power BI.
• Machine learning fundamentals: Core concepts in predictive modeling and algorithm-driven forecasting.
• Database management: Designing and maintaining the systems that store and organize business data.
• Business communication: Presenting technical findings in ways non-technical stakeholders can understand and use.
• Data ethics: Navigating the responsibilities that come with collecting, storing, and applying data.
• Capstone or applied projects: Real-world problem-solving that mirrors the work you'll do on the job.

Many Florida programs also offer a concentration, such as artificial intelligence, marketing analytics, or business intelligence, so you can tailor your coursework to a specific career path.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Data Analytics Master’s Degree in Florida?

Most data analytics master's programs in Florida take between one and two years to complete, depending on your enrollment status and the program's format. Full-time students often finish in 12 to 18 months, particularly in programs with a fixed course sequence designed to move students through efficiently. Part-time students, especially those balancing coursework with a full-time job, more typically take closer to two years, since many Florida programs offer evening or fully online formats built with working professionals in mind.

Credit hour requirements also affect your timeline, generally ranging from 30 to 36 hours across the programs on this list. Some schools offer accelerated terms or year-round enrollment that let you move through coursework faster than a traditional two-semester calendar allows. Because pacing varies so much from program to program, it's worth confirming a school's expected timeline and course schedule directly with an admissions advisor before you enroll.

Financial Aid for Data Analytics Master’s Degrees in Florida

Paying for a master's degree in Florida typically draws on a combination of federal aid, institutional funding, and other resources. Knowing what's available ahead of time can help you build a realistic budget for your degree.

Federal Financial Aid

Most graduate students begin the financial aid process by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal loans and, in some cases, grant funding. Graduate students generally qualify for Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans, both of which carry fixed interest rates and a range of repayment options. Completing the FAFSA early gives you the clearest picture of what federal aid you can count on before committing to a program.

Scholarships and Grants

Several Florida schools offer scholarships specifically for graduate or analytics students, along with need-based grants that don't require repayment. Some awards are automatic upon admission, while others require a separate application, so it's worth checking each program's financial aid page directly rather than assuming eligibility. Award amounts and criteria can shift from year to year, so it's worth a fresh look even if you've researched a program before.

Employer Tuition Assistance

If you're currently employed, ask your employer about tuition reimbursement or assistance programs, especially if a data analytics degree connects directly to your current role. Many Florida programs are built with working professionals in mind, offering evening classes or fully online formats that make it easier to balance coursework with a full-time job and any reimbursement requirements your employer sets. A conversation with your HR department before enrolling can clarify exactly what portion of tuition might be covered.

Military and Veteran Benefits

Service members, veterans, and military dependents may qualify for education benefits that substantially reduce the cost of a data analytics master's degree. The Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover a significant share of tuition and fees at many Florida schools, and some institutions participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program to help cover costs beyond what the GI Bill provides on its own. A few schools on this list also offer additional discounts or dedicated support for military-affiliated students, so it's worth confirming eligibility directly with each program's admissions or veterans affairs office.

Graduate Assistantships and Work-Study

Some Florida universities offer graduate assistantship positions that provide a tuition waiver or stipend in exchange for research or teaching support. These roles tend to be limited and competitive, so reaching out to your program's department early in the admissions process can improve your odds of landing one. Federal work-study may also be available for students who demonstrate financial need, offering another way to help offset the overall cost of your degree.

How To Choose the Right Affordable Data Analytics Master’s Degree in Florida

Cost is an important factor, but it shouldn't be the only one driving your decision. As you compare programs, weigh the following criteria:

• Accreditation: Confirm the school holds regional accreditation, and check for program-specific business accreditation if you're considering an MBA or business school-housed degree.
• Program format: Decide whether an online, hybrid, or in-person format best fits your schedule, especially if you're balancing coursework with full-time work.
• Curriculum focus: Look closely at whether the program leans more technical, business-oriented, or a blend of both, and make sure it matches the career path you want.
• Total program cost: Factor in the full cost of the degree, not just the per-credit rate, including fees, materials, and any required in-person components.
• Time to completion: Consider how quickly you want to finish, since accelerated cohort programs and part-time tracks lead to very different timelines.
• Career outcomes and employer connections: Research the program's job placement rates, alumni network, and relationships with local employers in your target industry.
• Financial aid availability: Compare what each school offers in scholarships, assistantships, and tuition assistance, since these can meaningfully offset the sticker price.

Career Outlook With a Data Analytics Master’s Degree in Florida

Florida's growing technology, finance, and healthcare sectors continue to drive demand for data analytics professionals across the state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), data scientists earned a national median annual wage of $112,590 as of May 2024, with employment projected to grow 34 percent between 2024 and 2034, a rate the agency classifies as much faster than average. In Florida specifically, roughly 8,400 people work as data scientists, earning a median annual salary of $95,360 as of 2024, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data.

Related roles show similarly strong momentum nationally. The BLS reports that operations research analysts earned a median annual wage of $91,290 in May 2024, with employment projected to grow 21 percent through 2034, another rate well above the average for all occupations. With Florida's lower cost of living compared to many coastal tech hubs and a steady influx of companies relocating to the state, a data analytics master's degree positions you to enter a job market with genuine room for growth.

FAQs About Affordable Data Analytics Master’s Programs in Florida

If you're still deciding whether this degree makes sense for you, these answers to common questions can help you weigh the options.

Is a Data Analytics Master's Degree Worth It?

For most students, a data analytics master's degree pays off through stronger earning potential and access to roles that demand advanced technical and analytical skills. Florida's expanding technology, finance, and healthcare sectors offer genuine demand for these skills, and a master's degree often serves as the credential that distinguishes candidates for more senior analytics positions. Whether the investment makes sense for you specifically depends on your career goals, your current background, and how directly the degree connects to the work you want to do.

Is a Data Analytics Master's Degree Less Expensive Than an On-Campus Degree?

Online data analytics master's programs are often less expensive than their on-campus counterparts, though the savings typically come from avoiding costs like housing, commuting, and campus fees rather than a lower tuition rate itself. Some Florida schools charge identical per-credit tuition regardless of format, while others price online programs slightly lower to reflect reduced overhead. Comparing both the per-credit rate and the full cost of attendance for each format gives you a clearer sense of which path actually saves you more.

Who Should Consider a Data Analytics Master's Degree Program?

A data analytics master's degree tends to suit working professionals looking to move into a more technical or data-driven role, along with recent graduates who want to build quantitative skills before entering the job market. It's also a strong option if you're already working in business, healthcare, finance, or a related field and want to layer data expertise onto your existing career track. If problem-solving appeals to you and you want a career centered on using information to guide decisions, this degree path is worth serious consideration.

Can I Complete a Data Analytics Master's Degree Online in Florida?

Many Florida schools offer data analytics master's programs entirely online, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere while continuing to work or manage other commitments. Some programs combine online coursework with occasional in-person requirements, such as an orientation or capstone presentation, so it's worth confirming a program's exact format before enrolling if a fully remote option matters most to you.

Do I Need a Technical Background to Enroll in a Data Analytics Master's Program?

Most data analytics master's programs don't require a technical undergraduate degree, though many expect some prior coursework in statistics, math, or business. If your background is light in these areas, several Florida schools offer bridge courses or leveling coursework to help you build the necessary foundation before starting core classes. Since admissions requirements vary by school, it's worth reviewing each program's prerequisites closely if you're coming from a non-technical field.

How Much Does a Data Analytics Master's Degree Cost in Florida Compared to Other States?

Florida ranks among the more affordable states for a data analytics master's degree, largely due to its large public university system and standardized graduate tuition rates for residents. While costs vary by school and program format, many Florida programs charge less per credit than comparable programs in states with fewer public university options or higher overall costs of living. Comparing Florida's rates against programs in other states can help you gauge whether relocating for residency purposes might be worth the potential savings.

Find Affordable Data Analytics Master’s Degrees in Florida

Discover your perfect data analytics degree by exploring the affordable master’s options featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to find out more about tuition and financial aid.