SNHU Spotlight: Jenny McCracken, BS in Business Administration Grad
Business | 10min Read
Master’s in Data Analytics Online Master of Science (MS)
Program Overview Why get a data analytics master’s degree?
Demand for data analytics-related roles is at an all-time high. Organizations of every size in every industry use data analytics – from small businesses to state departments, nonprofits to global corporations. SNHU’s Master of Science (MS) in Data Analytics takes a deep dive into the study of analyzing data, allowing you to hone one of the most coveted skill sets in today’s workforce.
Skills you'll learn:
- Descriptive statistics and analytics
- Predictive analytics
- Data visualization and presentation
- The data analytics life cycle
- Agile scrum management techniques
- Risk assessment and problem-solving
Courses & Curriculum Online data analysis classes that prepare you for your career
You’ll dive deep into data-driven decision-making, explore project management and predictive analytics, and develop communication and leadership skills that can apply to a variety of careers in almost any industry. You’ll also have an invaluable opportunity to gain real-world experience in courses like:
- Enterprise Data Management
- Decision Methods and Modeling
- Predictive Analytics
Online data analytics degree courses
Your online coursework covers key topics, from data mining, visualization and modeling to the ethical uses of data. It includes two foundation courses which may be waived if you have a business background or a bachelor's degree in a related field. You'll finish the program with a capstone course, providing you the skills to help businesses leverage information to make smart, data-driven decisions, operate with greater efficiency and compete more successfully.
SNHU provides cloud-based virtual environments in select courses to give you access to the technology you need. Learn more about our virtual environments.
Courses may include:
Foundations of Data
Course ID:
DAT 510
We live in a world where substantial amounts of data are available at the touch of a button. While this may be a very empowering prospect, it can also be overwhelming. In this course, students will examine the status of Big Data and its impact on the business world, framing analytics challenges using a structured life cycle approach to data analytics problems. Emphasis will be placed upon the verification of data, analytic techniques and open source tools for analyzing data, the role of regulatory organizations, and the privacy and ethics issues that surround its use.
Enterprise Data Management
Course ID:
DAT 515
Understanding the complexity of current data management systems and the ever evolving technology necessary to leverage such data is essential in making sound data-driven decisions. In this course, students will examine the issues in managing data and information from an enterprise perspective, and explore data management as an essential resource to organizational success through a deeper understanding of the concepts and techniques for managing the design, development, and maintenance of all the components of enterprise information management. The course will examine the roles and responsibilities of the various professionals that manage data and information in an organization.
Decision Methods and Modeling
Course ID:
DAT 520
The role of many analysts is as much about interpreting the results of data analysis as it is about gathering the data and "crunching the numbers." In this course, students will learn how to evaluate data in context, interpret data trends, and receive an overview of decision support management techniques such as predictive modeling, risk assessment and optimization, and analytics algorithms, which will set the stage for more advanced study in subsequent courses. Concepts from enterprise data management, including data warehousing and business intelligence, will provide a foundation for examining the topics of data mining, advanced and dimensional data modeling, and decision support system development as techniques for an organization's competitive advantage.
Presentation and Visualization of Data
Course ID:
DAT 530
In addition to the gathering and interpretation of data, today's business environment calls upon the analyst to communicate the results of data analysis to a variety of audiences. In this course students will learn how to synthesize the technical components of data analysis into reports, presentations, and visual dashboards that are meaningful for the intended audience and deliver those components in a coherent, convincing format.
Optimization and Risk Assessment
Course ID:
DAT 610
In the competitive business world, using data to its best advantage becomes all the more crucial. In this course, students will learn how to discern the levels of relevancy of data and the impact it has on operations as well as hone their ability to identify macro and micro level risk and evaluate risk management programs, policies, and strategies.
Predictive Analytics
Course ID:
DAT 640
Building on prior coursework in decision methods and modeling, students will get a deeper understanding of the art and science of predictive analysis. Students will examine the elements that contribute to building reliable predictive models that result in actionable performance predictions such as identifying the variables that have the most predictive power and developing and deploying predictive models currently in use.
Advanced Data Analytics
Course ID:
DAT 650
This course will emphasize the employment of advanced analytic strategies over the entire life cycle of the data analysis process. Using a comprehensive case-studies approach, students will logically extend and add definition to their existing analytic skill set, resulting in the development of a project proposal that will serve as preparation for the capstone experience.
Capstone in Data Analytics
Course ID:
DAT 690
This capstone course is the culminating experience for the M.S. in Data Analytics program. The aim of the capstone is to assess students' ability to synthesize and integrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout their coursework, rather than introducing new concepts. This course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements.
Project Management
Course ID:
QSO 640
This course includes the study of concepts, tools, and practices of project management. The course adopts a managerial process approach to Project Management, which consists of initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing the project. Major topics will include project scope, project time, project cost, project quality, project risk, project resources, project communications and how to be an effective project manager. Cases are utilized to integrate the learning in the course and provide decision- making experience for the student.
Visit the course catalog to view the full MS in Data Analytics curriculum.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Nov. 10, 2025 | Feb. 2, 2026
Next term starts:
August 25, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Dedicated to your success
Our instructors are at the heart of SNHU's mission of student success. With passionate dedication to our students and their learning, our faculty are with you every step of the way. Whether they are engaging with students on discussion boards, communicating concepts and ideas, or helping you explore your passion, SNHU instructors strive to make your learning experience valuable and memorable.
Featured Faculty
Paulitia "Litia" Sheldon
Litia Sheldon is an instructor of data analytics at SNHU and a recipient of the 2019 Distinguished Online Teaching Award.
Position
Instructor
Joined SNHU
2014
Education
- Post-grad Certificate in Predictive Analytics from University of California Irvine
- Master of Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management
- MBA from the University of Phoenix
- BS in Computer and Information Science/Mathematics from Florida State University
“This program gives you a terrific foundation of knowledge you need to succeed. However, as with most things, to differentiate, you have to commit to yourself that you will keep learning. I think that is how you continue to separate from others. Find what you love and do it well.”
Litia Sheldon, instructor
Read more about other online faculty at SNHU.
What SNHU instructors have to say
Hear from more of our instructors about a degree in data analytics.
“With the increase in the amount of data available, obtaining a degree in data analytics provides the ability to mold any discipline in the current marketplace.”
Dr. Susan McKenzie, senior associate dean of STEM programs
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 36-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$637
$1,911
$22,932
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$16,920
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,911 $3,822 $5,733 $7,644If 3 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,199
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,288
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $13,377
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $11,466
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a master's degree. Most master's degrees require 36 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer credits toward your master's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of an online graduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online data analytics degree?
As the world’s reliance on data escalates, demand for professionals with experience in data analytics shows no signs of slowing down. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data scientists are No. 3 on the list of the 20 fastest-growing occupations for 2022-2032.1 Whether you're already working in data analytics or you’re in a field that could benefit from it, you’ll come away from this program with a highly marketable skill – knowing how to interpret the stories that data has to tell.
Occupations
Graduates of the MS in Data Analytics program can pursue a variety of data-focused roles, including these high-growth occupations:
Data Analyst
Analyze data and apply mathematical and statistical techniques to help solve problems across any industry.
Operations Research Analyst
Use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help businesses solve problems and make better decisions.
Statistician
Combine statistical knowledge with expertise in other subjects as a company employee or a statistical consultant.
35%
Projected job growth nationally for data scientists through 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.2
$108,020
Median annual salary nationally for data scientists in 2023, according to the BLS.2 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
I used the skills I learned to move into a career path that was more in line with my passion. I am currently working on a project at my job that applies what I learned in my capstone course.
Luanne Dexter '20G
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers about the master's degree in data analytics
What is a master's in data analytics?
As data proliferates and more of it moves to the cloud, today’s organizations need analysts who know how to use data to help improve performance.
A master's in data analytics deepens your expertise in this area of study. It also keeps you current on the latest data methods and analysis techniques.
With this degree, you’ll hone your ability to help organizations gather and interpret data and improve their operational efficiency. You'll also learn how to apply your analytical skills in the workplace, including how to present your findings and manage data-driven projects.
SNHU’s online master’s in analytics program is designed to provide you with a well-rounded marketable skill set that’s in high demand across virtually every industry.
What jobs can I get with a master's in data analytics?
A master's in data analytics gives you the technical skills and business acumen to take on a variety of data-related roles, including:
- Data analyst
- Data scientist
- Operations research analyst
- Statistician
The work of data analysts and related occupations cuts across every industry, from automobile manufacturing to retail. They analyze operations, consumer behavior, health statistics, weather patterns and more.
Data analysts help organizations in the public and private sectors solve problems, improve operational efficiencies, cut costs and increase profits. They are critical to economic growth in every corner of the world.
Learn more about what a data analyst does.
How valuable is a master’s in data analytics?
Because technological advances have made it faster and easier for companies to get data, analysts are needed more than ever to manage and evaluate that data to improve business performance. A master's degree in data analytics provides advanced study in data analysis, which can make it a very valuable degree if you're looking for a job as a data analyst or already working in the field.
Value can also come in the form of return on investment. At $637 per credit hour, SNHU’s master’s in data analytics is one of the most affordable in the nation, and the program can be completed in as few as 15 months.
How hard is data analytics?
If you have practical experience and a natural aptitude for the discipline’s core skills – in this case, math, analytical thinking and technical abilities – you may take to it easily. However, if you need extra help, or a refresher in those areas, you may want to take advantage of SNHU's peer tutoring or our 24/7 online drop-in tutoring to help get you up to speed.
Dr. Susan McKenzie, senior associate dean of STEM programs at SNHU, believes that in addition to strong mathematical and statistical abilities, successful data analysts have this key skill set:
- Analytical skills to evaluate, model and interpret data
- Problem-solving skills to make predictions, assess risk and solve problems
- Decision-making skills to think critically and identify solutions
- Technical skills including software and scripting languages to interpret and present data
SNHU’s 36-credit MS in Data Analytics features 9 core courses in information technology, including advanced coursework and a capstone. Foundation coursework explores the fundamentals of statistics and data and information management.
Is data analytics full of coding?
The master's degree program in data analytics at Southern New Hampshire University is designed to equip you with a balanced skill set, combining coding proficiency with analytical and decision-making capabilities.
Throughout your program, you'll get experience with coding languages and tools commonly used in data analytics such as Python, PBI, SQL, NoSQL, R, Responsible AI and Agile Project Management. You'll participate in hands-on labs in most of your courses to gradually introduce you to these concepts, alongside the practical application of data analytics tools and techniques.
Are data analysts in demand?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 35% growth in employment for statisticians through 2032.2
This growth is expected to result "from more widespread use of statistical analysis to inform business, healthcare and policy decisions. The amount of digitally stored data will increase over the projections decade as people and companies continue to conduct business online and use social media, smartphones and other mobile devices. As a result, businesses will increasingly need statisticians to analyze the large amount of information and data collected. Statistical analyses will help companies improve their business processes, design and develop new products, and advertise products to potential customers."2
How do I become a data analyst?
If you’re eager to advance in the data analytics field, a master’s in data analytics can expand your options. The degree may help you qualify for senior-level positions and open more doors.
Another tangible benefit of this program is the experiential learning opportunities it offers. Opportunities like this are invaluable because they help bridge the gap between coursework and the hands-on experience employers are looking for. These experiences can help you craft a skill set and portfolio of your work that can make you more appealing to potential employers.
Learn more about how to become a data analyst.
What's the difference between data analytics and data science?
A data scientist will design new methods, models and algorithms to find innovative solutions and predict future patterns. Both data analysts and data scientists organize, interpret and present data, but data analysts focus on current data sets.
“Data analysts tend to spend a lot of time glancing in the rearview, using data to describe, educate and answer important business questions,” said Jonathan Kamyck, senior associate dean at Southern New Hampshire University.
“While many data scientists also perform those tasks, in many organizations they are also charged with pioneering, where they apply their unique skill sets to 'peer into the future' and help leaders understand what questions should be asked in the first place,” Kamyck said.
Learn more about the difference between data science and data analytics.
What do you need to get a master's in data analytics?
Requirements for master’s programs can vary, however, the first step towards a master’s in data analytics would typically be earning a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Once you have a bachelor’s degree under your belt, you can explore graduate programs like data analytics.
If your professional background and bachelor's degree happen to be in a different field than data, you may be required to complete up to two foundation courses, which are designed to help students from different educational backgrounds learn the basic knowledge needed to be successful in the program.
Many students enter the master’s in data analytics from other fields as an entire change in career, so don’t let that stop you from exploring your interests.
“I had been recommended by a former professor to look into data analytics as I was trying to find a new career direction to build off of some of my skills from my chemistry background”, said Annie Earley '20G. “I found the SNHU graduate program for data analytics to be exactly what I was looking for.”
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, “20 Fastest growing occupations,” on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/fastest-growing.htm (viewed April 22, 2024)
2Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm (viewed April 22, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/OOH/math/operations-research-analysts.htm (viewed April 22, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/OOH/math/mathematicians-and-statisticians.htm (viewed April 22, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.