Get Your Degree In Data Analytics

Looking for a high paying job with future job security? Get a degree in data analytics and start your career today!

If you are looking for a career that has a high demand and built-in job security, look no further than a career in data analytics. Data analytics professionals are in high demand for several reasons. First, most companies have implemented some sort of software tasking system and require personnel who are trained in interpreting the results from the data generated.

Next, data analysts have become indispensable additions to those companies who wish to keep up with the technology and have often grown faster than their current business model could handle. Businesses have embraced the digital age and as a result need someone well versed in interpreting digital data so that they can make real-time decisions about their marketing, sales, and product development strategies. If you enjoy numbers, and you enjoy a highly lucrative field, then data analytics is the job for you.

What does a data analyst do?

Data analysts engage in statistical analysis of generated data from large datasets garnered from online sources. The research done with these generated data points allows the analyst to provide solutions for businesses looking to stay on top of, or ahead of, emerging trends. Some level of analytics is utilized by all successful companies, whether large or small. To do this analyst use a type of data “language” called Structured Query Language (SQL). This type of language allows analysts to access relational databases, compare them, and produce several predictions and strategies for their employers.

Why Data Analysis Is Not Going Away

What makes data analytics such a hot job field? Simple. Technology continues to evolve and advance at such a rate that many companies often find themselves incapable of adapting. The quickest way to adapt is to bring one, or more, data analysts into the company to assist with the implementation and maintenance of data collection as well as data analysis. In short, the analyst assists a company in producing products, goods and services that are most requested by consumers. To do this companies must stay on top of the trends and data analysts help them to do this. More people make purchases online and via their mobile apps than ever before. This generates much more data than ever before, and those companies who are able to make data driven decisions are those who are succeeding in the current market.

How much can you make in data analytics?

You can make a very good living as a data analyst, with the low end of the salary range starting at $68,000, and most starting at $70,000. The median salary is $95,000, meaning that this is what most earn in this career. However, depending on the industry, the salary could be in the low six figure range.

The projected growth rate for this industry is very good. For example, if you opt to become a computer systems analyst or an operations research analyst, then the Bureau of Labor predicts a growth rate between seven and 20% over the next eight years. This projection indicates that the demand will remain high and the possibility of employment is optimistic.

Types of Data Analytics Jobs

Four primary types of data analyst positions exist:

  • Diagnostic

  • Descriptive

  • Prescriptive

  • Predictive

Some of the job titles under these categories include:

  • Business Intelligence Analyst:

This data analytics category reviews data and discovers patterns and trends in financial or business markets. This allows companies to determine and set goals and operational strategies. Expect to make around $85,000 to start.

  • Data Engineer:

Data engineers help companies to design software and systems that validate, collect and generate actionable data. Expect to make around $115,000 on average.

  • Transportation Logistics:

Analysts that work for the transportation industry generally determine the most efficient and quickest way to transport goods cost effectively. The starting salary is around $50,000.

  • Operations Analyst:

Operations analysts are a core component of most mid-to large sized companies. They identify problems, suggest solutions, all based on the data generated from multiple databases. They also coordinate with other departments and assist in the creation of a strategy to meet the company’s goals. Starting payrate in this category is $60,000, depending on the industry. Many senior analysts make mid six figures annually.

Best Data Analytics Schools

Many schools now offer this degree online, or in a hybrid situation. You can obtain a bachelor’s masters and even a doctoral degree in this field. Certificates of accreditation are also obtainable. Getting your degree from a program known for its strong and rigorous course of study often translates into employment and a higher salary after graduation. Here are a few of those colleges offering such programs:

Affording Your Data Analytics Degree

Tuition costs for your data analytics degree depends on the program and the university you choose. For example, Johns Hopkins’ starting tuition is $58,720 annually for a full time student pursuing a bachelor’s degree. However, you can also go to Penn State, utilize their online courses, and pay around $14,000 a year. If you determine to pursue an advanced degree beyond your bachelor’s degree, then the fees also increase. Those opting to go through the certificate programs pay much less, and the courses only last a year or less. These programs are designed to get you into an entry level position but are not sufficient for the higher paying salaries of those with a degree. A data analytics degree at a well-known college can be costly, but the Federal Application for Federal Aid (FAFSA) is a good, first place to start.