Is an online data science degree worth it? Yes, it is because data scientists:
- Earned $112,590 per year in median wages (BLS, May 2024)
- Have a projected job growth rate of 34% (BLS, 2024-2034)
Why is there an explosive demand for data scientists? Data-driven decision-making is now the norm across diverse industries, from healthcare to entertainment. Indeed, data drives every major industry decision.
Featured Programs
So, if you want to be in on the action, read on. Here, we’ll feature the best accredited online data science programs. Due to their accreditation, these are employer-recognized online degrees, too. As a result, these degrees deliver real return on investment (ROI).
Related:
- Online Degrees in Machine Learning & AI: Salary + Career Paths
- Future Tech Degrees: What Online Programs Are Worth It?
- Are AI Degrees Worth It? Online Programs Explained
- 10 Online Degrees with the Highest Salaries
- Top 20 Degrees for the Future
What Employers Look for in a Data Science Degree
Not all online data science degrees are made equal in the eyes of employers.
How Hiring Managers Evaluate Online Data Science Programs
What’s written on the diploma itself isn’t the entire story. Hiring managers also consider these aspects behind the diploma.
- Regional accreditation signals compliance with established academic and industry standards.
- Curriculum depth refers to the inclusion of Python, SQL, machine learning, and statistics courses.
- Applied projects and capstone projects signal your ability to apply theory to solve real-world problems.
- Use of industry tools like TensorFlow, Tableau, and AWS is a non-negotiable aspect.
- Internship or practicum experiences provide students with real-world exposure.
- Portfolios allow candidates to highlight their job-ready skills through tangible projects.
Tech leaders like Google and Amazon use holistic evaluation processes. These cover candidates’ skills, interviews, experience, and problem-solving ability.
Online Data Science Degrees Employers Value Most
Employers value these online data science degrees because graduates have job-ready skills.
1. Bachelor’s in Data Science
This is the best online data science degree because it hits the spot, so to speak. Students learn the foundational principles and practices of data science. The degree combines statistics and math as well as coding foundations (Python, ML, or SQL).
The intensive training equips students with strong quantitative problem-solving skills. These are sought-after skills in the business and tech industries.
- Median Annual Salary: $100,000–$115,000
- Projected Job Growth: 34%
- Ideal Student Profile:
- Enjoys solving quantitative problems and engaging in analytical thinking
- Comfortable with coding on a regular basis
- Demonstrates a keen interest in the use of data in the decision-making process
- Remote Work Potential: Yes. Many junior data scientist and analyst roles offer remote or hybrid work options.
2. Bachelor’s in Computer Science (Data Science Concentration)
This is also a data science degree that employers value because it provides students with a broader foundation in diverse tech fundamentals. Systems, algorithms, and software engineering are foremost of these principles. It enables students to specialize in data science topics for targeted skills. These include ML and AI, data engineering, and data visualization and analytics.
It allows graduates greater flexibility in choosing their career paths. Graduates can be data scientists, data engineers, or software engineers with a data focus.
- Median Annual Salary: $100,000–$120,000
- Projected Job Growth: 34%
- Ideal Student Profile:
- Interested in data science and software development
- Enjoys the rigorous process in computing theory
- Seeks more career options
- Remote Work Potential: Yes
3. Data Analytics Degree
The online data analytics degree salary is lower than the data science salary. But it’s still above the median annual wage for all occupations – $49,500/year (BLS, May 2024).
Plus, it’s slightly less technical than a data science degree. So, if you’re not really a math whiz, you can thrive in a data analytics program. Instead, you’ll focus more on the use of practical tools like business intelligence, Excel, and SQL.
But like a data science degree, its degree holders are highly employable. You can be competitive for business-focused analytics roles where data insights support decision-making.
- Median Annual Salary: $65,000–$95,000
- Projected Job Growth: 21%
- Ideal Student Profile:
- With a strong business focus and communication skills
- Likes translating numbers into compelling narratives
- Remote Work Potential: Yes
4. Master’s in Data Science (Online)
The data scientist salary with degree at the graduate level is among the highest. A master’s degree is often required for advanced data scientist roles. Students go deeper into data science and its concepts, including AI and ML, Big Data, and advanced statistics. Many tech giants, such as Amazon and Google, put a premium on these skills, too.
- Median Annual Salary: $110,000–$130,000
- Projected Job Growth: 34%
- Ideal Student Profile:
- Passionate about being a respected authority in data science
- Aims for career advancement (i.e., specialized or leadership roles)
- Remote Work Potential: Often yes, usually in consulting and research
Top Schools for an Online Data Science Degree
We chose these top ranked online data science programs for their:
- Academic rigor
- Reasonable costs
- Industry recognition
1. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
UMich offers a 100% online Master of Applied Data Science for aspiring data scientists.
2. University of Wisconsin–Madison
UW-Madison offers a BS and MS in Data Science programs that feature a rigorous curriculum.
3. University of Southern California
USC offers a wide range of data science programs, including:
- BA in Data Science
- MS in Applied Data Science
- MS in Spatial Data Science
- MS in Healthcare Data Science
- MS in Data Science and Law
4. Bellevue University
Students choose from the BS and MS in Data Science online programs. The data science bachelor’s degree online coursework ties well with the MS program.
5. University of Phoenix
The BS in Data Science and MS in Data Science programs offer flexible schedules.
Highest Paying Data Science Careers Table
| Career | Common Degrees | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth | Remote Potential |
| Data Analyst | Bachelor’s (various fields) | $65,000-$85,000 | 20% | Yes |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | Bachelor’s | $80,000-$105,000 | 20% | Yes |
| Data Scientist | Bachelor’s (Master’s preferred) | $100,000-$130,000 | 34% | Yes |
| Machine Learning Engineer | Bachelor’s (Master’s preferred) | $110,000-$140,000 | 35% | Often |
| Senior Data Scientist / Data Science Lead | Bachelor’s + experience | $150,000–$220,000 | 20% | Often |
Accreditation & Reputation Matter
Only choose from accredited online data science programs. But you must also ensure that your chosen program has a good reputation.
Are Online Data Science Degrees Respected by Employers?
Yes, employers respect online data science degrees. But the schools that awarded the degrees must have regional accreditation.
Beyond accreditation, the school’s brand can matter early in your career. Graduates from well-known universities may have a competitive edge. Hiring managers often use brand recognition in their selection process.
Furthermore, demonstrated skills and a strong portfolio outweigh the delivery format. Indeed, the online vs. on-campus distinction is fading.
ROI Analysis: Is an Online Data Science Degree Worth It?
| Degree Type | Average Total Tuition | Median Annual Salary | 10-year Earnings | Breakeven Estimate |
| Bachelor’s in Data Science | $20,000–$60,000 | $100,000–$115,000 | $800,000–$1.1 million | 1–2 years |
| Bachelor’s in Computer Science (Data Science Concentration) | $30,000–$80,000 | $100,000–$120,000 | $900,000–$1.2 million | 1–2 years |
| Bachelor’s in Data Analytics | $20,000–$60,000 | $65,000–$95,000 | $650,000–$900,000 | 1–3 years |
| Master’s in Data Science | $30,000–$70,000 | $110,000–$130,000 | $1.1 million –$1.5 million | 1–2 years |
The tuition variation ($20,000-$60,000) is due to differences in institution, program length, and specialization. But the costs are well worth it due to the strong income potential. There’s also a stable demand through 2030+ for data science professionals.
Red Flags to Avoid in Online Data Science Programs
If you know about these things in an online data science program, consider them red flags.
- Little to no hands-on coding requirement
- Outdated curriculum
- No capstone or portfolio requirement
- Lack of career placement support
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an online data science degree respected by employers?
Yes, it is, but it must be from an accredited school. But don’t rest on your degree either. You should pair it with an internship, a strong portfolio, and even a certification.
What is the best online data science degree?
A bachelor’s degree is suitable for entry-level roles. But for career growth, a master’s degree plus work experience is a good idea.
How much can you make with a data science degree?
It depends on your industry, company, and role, among other factors. But data scientists can earn $100,000-$130,000 per year, on average.
Is data science better than computer science?
Not necessarily – it depends on your interests and goals. Data science focuses on machine learning, statistics, and analytics. Computer science emphasizes programming, systems, and software.
Do you need a master’s degree to become a data scientist?
Not necessarily. A bachelor’s degree can suffice for many entry-level roles. But a master’s degree is usually a requirement for advanced, specialized, or leadership roles.
Conclusion
An online data science degree can provide a strong ROI. But you must align your practical skills with in-demand skills, such as ML, SQL, and Python.
When choosing from among online data science programs, compare their:
- Institutional accreditation
- Salary outcomes
- Tuition
- Employer reputation
- Job placement
You’re making a significant investment, so careful research is vital.