Online MBA Program in Data Analytics

Data analysts interpret large volumes of raw data, often using advanced technology. Most government agencies and large private businesses require data analytics professionals’ expertise to provide a meaningful interpretation of statistical data. With continuing advancements in technology in the workplace, demand for skilled workers to analyze data, and work with machinery and software designed to help interpret it is high.

Those who are interested in a high-level career in this field should obtain an online MBA in data analytics, which prepares students for all aspects of taking on a management role in this fast-growing industry.

What is an Online MBA in Data Analytics?

Data analytics is heavily focused on numbers, statistics, and the technology used to analyze and store them. Students embarking on an online MBA program with a concentration in data analytics should be prepared to learn complicated mathematical theories and computer programming. Students in all online MBA programs are also required to complete a variety of business management courses.

The purpose of online MBA programs is to prepare students to take on the specific challenges that are commonly faced by those in their chosen field while providing them with advanced business management training that will let them successfully transition into a leadership role at some point in their careers if they choose to do so. MBA programs differ from master’s and other degree programs. They provide a well-rounded curriculum beyond the student’s specialization and prepares them to become competent business managers.

While online MBA programs usually contain the same curriculum as in-class programs, prospective students who are considering obtaining an accredited online MBA in data analytics should consider that online learning requires plenty of self-discipline and a reasonable time commitment each week until the program is completed. Online degree programs do let students have the flexibility to work at their own pace; however, they don’t offer the same opportunities to learn with peers and discuss coursework with instructors as traditional learning programs.

MBA in Data Analytics Curriculum

All online MBA programs in data analytics include a business management component. This part of the program requires students to enroll in a variety of business administration and management classes that are meant to prepare them to become leaders of their industry. Topics studied in these courses include:

Business law
Financial management and accounting
Ethics
Human resources
Organizational behavior
Operations management
Entrepreneurship

For those enrolled in an online MBA program with a concentration in data analytics, various courses that teach students to use required technology and statistics and mathematics courses are required to complete the program. The following list is a sample of some of the courses students can expect to enroll in. Exact course titles and descriptions may vary depending on the institution.

Forecasting With Statistical Data: Students in this course learn methods for interpreting statistical data and how it can be used. The ultimate goal of this course is to teach students the skill of accurately forecasting trends using statistical data analysis.
Data Mining: Students learn processes used to extract useful data from large sets of raw data. This course teaches students to use both technology and their minds for this process.
Social Media Analytics: This course prepares students to work with statistics provided by social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, to analyze engagement and determine best practices to increase an organization’s following.
Big Data Management: Students learn the most secure ways to share and manage big data, which is described as excess volumes of data that accumulate at a high velocity.

Most programs that offer the opportunity to earn an MBA in data analytics online require prospective students who apply to have high GMAT scores. That being said, an increasing number of schools are now choosing to waive this requirement² so that they can attract more students to their programs. Additionally, most schools require students who apply for MBA programs to have at least one year of work experience in their field and a bachelor’s degree.

What Unique Career Paths Can I Pursue With an MBA Specializing in Data Analytics?

The field of data analytics has a high demand for qualified workers, which means that those with an accredited online MBA in data analytics have plenty of opportunities available to them after they graduate. The following list outlines just a few of the career choices that graduates may be qualified to take on.

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts³, which are sometimes referred to as systems architects, work within organizations to design technology solutions that help operations run efficiently. They’re responsible for overseeing all information technology systems within an organization and ensuring the secure storage of data and information. Most work regular office hours, but in some cases, they may be required to work overtime if security systems are breached, or new technology is being implemented in the organization.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics⁴, which monitors average salary and growth for careers throughout the United States, the average computer systems analyst earned $88,740 per year as of May 2018. Outlook for this job is average, with an expected increase of 9% in job availability by 2026.

Operations Research Analyst

Operations research analysts⁵ work with complex mathematical and analytical methods to interpret data that helps them identify and solve problems within an organization. They’re often employed by government agencies and large, customer-focused, and research-focused organizations. In most cases, operations research analysts work in an office 40 hours per week.

As of May 2018, the average operations research analyst earned $83,390 per year. Demand for operations research analysts is expected to increase by 27% by 2026, which is much faster than average.

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Computer and information research scientists⁶ are responsible for designing new technology to solve complex workplace problems. They’re typically employed by industries such as business, health care, and research. Most work a minimum of 40 hours per week.

Computer and information research scientists earned an average of $118,370 per year as of May 2018. Demand for this job is increasing rapidly, with a 19% increase in job availability expected by 2026.

Digital Marketing Manager

Marketing managers⁷ use statistical data about sales, demand, and consumer needs to direct advertising campaigns to sell a particular brand, product, or service. Digital marketing managers are responsible for creating online campaigns that rely on web content, blogs, and social media. They’re usually required to adhere to strict deadlines, and therefore, they often work overtime outside of regular office hours. In most cases, digital marketing managers are required to collaborate with a team of art directors, sales managers, and advertising managers.

As of May 2018, digital marketing managers earned an average income of $132,620 per year. The job outlook for digital marketing managers is expected to increase by 10% by 2026, which is a little faster than the average job.

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts⁸ manage data security on behalf of organizations. They may be employed in government or by private businesses. They’re required to monitor data storage systems for security breaches and ensure a safe and secure page of information, which is normally highly confidential. They’re typically they’re required to work regular office hours. When cyberattacks occur, they may be required around round the clock until security is restored.

The average information security analyst earns $98,350 per year. The demand for this job is on the rise and is expected to increase by 28% by 2026.

Chief Technology Officer

Chief technology officers⁹ are part of the top executive team that generally said corporations’ headquarters. They’re responsible for overseeing all technology within the organization and congregating with other top executives to plan and direct all activities that occur within the business. Chief technology officers often work long hours and travel excessively.

As of May 2018, the average chief technology officer earned $189,600 per year. This occupation has an average job outlook, with an expected growth of 8% by 2026.

Should I Get an Online MBA in Data Analytics?

Prospective students considering an online MBA in data analytics should be careful to thoroughly research the program and ensure that it will be the right program to meet their career goals. Some of the most important things to note are listed below.

MBA in Data Analytics vs. MBA in Data Science

While there are many similarities in these concentrations, data analytics is a more specific field of study. Simultaneously, data science encompasses data analytics and machine learning and a larger focus on computer programming. Data analytics, however, focuses strictly on the interpretation of raw data and how to use it.

MBA in Data Analytics vs. Master’s in Data Analytics

Master’s programs and MBA programs in data analytics online teach a similar subject matter; however, MBA programs cover a broader range of topics by including business management and administration classes. Prospective students who are hoping to advance to management positions and become leaders in their field during their careers should consider obtaining their MBA in data analytics online.

Do you like working with technology?

The field of data analytics is very technology-based. Most systems used to interpret and extract data are computational, and workers in the field must know how to use them. Additionally, data analytics professionals are often required to write algorithms and data analytics software.

Are you okay with spending your career working at a desk?

Most jobs in data analysis require workers to spend long hours working in offices. Some are often subject to overtime hours, including evenings and weekends. If you’re considering entering the field, you must consider whether or not you’re comfortable with spending your career at a desk.

Are you looking for a way to earn an MBA on your own time?

An online MBA in data analytics can be earned on a flexible schedule. Online study is an excellent way to continue working full-time or spend time raising children while furthering your education.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do online MBA programs in data analytics offer the same curriculum as those offered in class?

Most often, programs that offer accredited online MBAs in data analytics offer the same curriculum as those offered in a classroom setting. The key differences between online study and classroom study are the flexibility and interaction with peers.

How long will it take me to earn an MBA in data analytics online?

Most online MBA programs in data analytics let students take up to two years to complete their program with the option to finish early. Those who require more time can opt to enroll in a part-time program, which usually gives students a period of up to five years. Students who are eager to earn their MBA quickly can enroll in an accelerated online MBA program in data analytics, which usually takes approximately six to eight weeks to complete.

Will having an MBA in data analytics increase my chances of obtaining a promotion at work?

Many employers prefer to promote from within, and those who do place a high value on employees who have advanced degrees such as online MBAs in data analytics. If you’re hoping to climb to the top of the corporate ladder, an online MBA program may offer the flexibility you need to advance your education while continuing to work full time.

Are online MBA programs always accredited?

Although most online MBA programs in the United States have the proper credentials, some claim to grant students MBAs without being accredited. Students must check the status of programs they’re considering before they apply. This can be done online by checking the United States Department of Education’s database of accredited programs¹⁰.

References
¹https://www.discoverbusiness.us/education/online-mba/
²https://www.discoverbusiness.us/education/online-mba/no-gmat/
³https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm
⁴https://www.bls.gov
⁵https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/operations-research-analysts.htm
⁶https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm
⁷https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm
⁸https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm
⁹https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm
¹⁰https://www.ed.gov/accreditation