Data Analytics: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Data Analytics is a dynamic, interdisciplinary field focused on extracting meaningful insights from structured and unstructured data to support strategic decision-making across industries. This program equips learners with the technical and analytical skills needed to collect, process, interpret, and visualize complex datasets to solve real-world problems.
- Statistical Analysis: Mastery of probability theory, inferential statistics, and hypothesis testing to draw reliable conclusions from data samples.
- Data Visualization: Proficiency in using tools and design principles to transform data into clear, impactful visual representations for stakeholders.
- Database Management: Understanding of relational and non-relational databases, including query languages like SQL, for efficient data storage and retrieval.
- Machine Learning Fundamentals: Application of algorithms to identify patterns, make predictions, and automate analytical processes.
- Big Data Technologies: Exposure to scalable platforms such as Hadoop and Spark for processing large volumes of data in real time.
- Programming for Data Science: Hands-on experience with languages like Python and R to clean, analyze, and model data programmatically.
- Business Intelligence: Integration of data insights into organizational strategy through dashboards, reporting systems, and performance metrics.
- Data Ethics and Governance: Awareness of privacy regulations, data security, and responsible data use in compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Data Analytics Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Data Analytics Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Data Analytics degrees, including Data Scientists, Statisticians and Management Analysts. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 1,418,540 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Scientists 15-2051 | $112,590 | $63,650 - $194,410 | 233,440 | $54.13 |
| Statisticians 15-2041 | $103,300 | $60,390 - $170,700 | 29,800 | $49.66 |
| Management Analysts 13-1111 | $101,190 | $59,720 - $174,140 | 893,900 | $48.65 |
| Computer Programmers 15-1251 | $98,670 | $52,190 - $162,090 | 109,870 | $47.44 |
| Postsecondary Teachers, All Other 25-1199 | $78,490 | $39,720 - $172,850 | 151,530 | N/A |
Data Analytics Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $65,762 in Mississippi to $120,874 in Washington—a 84% difference. The highest-paying states include Washington, California, and New York. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 1,418,540 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Data Analytics by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 15 institutions offering Data Analytics programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Data Analytics is found at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) (67 graduates), Syracuse University (48 graduates), Purdue University Global (27 graduates), University of South Carolina (USC), Columbia (19 graduates), and Lake Forest College (13 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 232 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
67 | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | Private | cmu.edu |
| Syracuse University |
Bachelor's
Postbac Cert.
|
48 | Syracuse, New York | Private | syracuse.edu |
| Purdue University Global |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
27 | West Lafayette, Indiana | Public | purdueglobal.edu |
| University of South Carolina (USC) |
Postbac Cert.
Master's
|
19 | Columbia, South Carolina | Public | sc.edu |
| Lake Forest College |
Bachelor's
|
13 | Lake Forest, Illinois | Private | lakeforest.edu |
| Saint Mary's University of Minnesota (SMUMN) |
Postbac Cert.
|
13 | Winona, Minnesota | Private | smumn.edu |
| Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) |
Postbac Cert.
|
11 | New Britain, Connecticut | Public | ccsu.edu |
| Barnard College |
Bachelor's
|
11 | New York, New York | Private | barnard.edu |
| California Baptist University (CBU) |
Bachelor's
|
7 | Riverside, California | Private | calbaptist.edu |
| Brandeis University |
Post-Master's
|
4 | Waltham, Massachusetts | Private | brandeis.edu |
| Marquette University |
Master's
|
4 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Private | marquette.edu |
| Stevens Institute of Technology |
Postbac Cert.
|
3 | Hoboken, New Jersey | Private | stevens.edu |
| University of New Haven (UNH) |
Postbac Cert.
|
2 | West Haven, Connecticut | Private | newhaven.edu |
| Grand Valley State University (GVSU) |
Postbac Cert.
|
2 | Allendale, Michigan | Public | gvsu.edu |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison |
Other Award
|
1 | Madison, Wisconsin | Public | wisc.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Data Analytics programs
How much can I earn with a Data Analytics degree?
Salaries for Data Analytics graduates vary by role and location. Data Scientists earn a median of $112,590 annually, while Statisticians earn around $103,300. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Washington average $120,874 compared to $65,762 in Mississippi. Approximately 1,418,540 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Data Analytics programs?
Currently 15 accredited institutions offer Data Analytics degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) (67 graduates), Syracuse University (48 graduates), and Purdue University Global (27 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Data Analytics degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Data Scientists, Statisticians, and Management Analysts. Related occupations employ approximately 1,418,540 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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