What can you do with a master’s in data analytics

Want to be a data scientist, machine learning engineer, or financial analyst? There’s virtually no limit to what you can do with a master’s in data analytics.

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By: Amanda Phagan, Edited by: Joey Morris

Last updated: June 12, 2025

In our increasingly data-driven world, you might instead ask, "What can't you do with a master's in data analytics?" If you have an eye for detail, a knack for making sense of complex information, and a desire to solve the problems modern businesses face, this degree might be a good fit for you.

Read on to learn what you can do with a master's in data analytics.

What jobs can you get with an online master's in data analytics?

You might find earning an online master's in data analytics beneficial if you want to advance your career in an increasingly digital, data-driven world. With this degree, you can make an impact in several different fields, including tech, marketing, finance, healthcare, government, and more.

Read on to learn about a few of the lucrative jobs you can qualify for with a master's in data analytics, with salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Business intelligence analyst

Business intelligence analysts provide insight into the risks, trends, and opportunities that most impact organizations. These professionals usually inform the C-suite in various industries such as science, tech, professional services, government, and finance.

Required skills: Data visualization, problem-solving, statistical analysis, observation, reporting, projecting/modeling, communication, and consulting
Responsibilities: Organizing information, identifying business trends, and recommending organizational changes accordingly
Median annual salary (May 2023): $99,410 (management analysts)
Projected job outlook (2022–32): 10% growth (management analysts)

Data analyst

Data analysts organize and interpret structured data to solve problems and inform data-driven decisions. Data analysts may use SQL, Python, or R programming languages to perform data visualization and statistical analysis. Most importantly, these professionals communicate the meaning of figures and trends in easy-to-understand ways.

Required skills: Data visualization, problem-solving, statistical analysis, observation, reporting, projecting/modeling, communication, and consulting
Responsibilities: Organizing information, identifying patterns, and recommending next steps
Median annual salary (May 2023): $74,680 (market research analysts)
Projected job outlook (2022–32): 13% growth (market research analysts)

Data scientist

Data scientists harness data to improve operations, identify market opportunities, and optimize strategies. They are typically proficient in computer programming languages like Python, SQL, R, and Java.Unlike data analysts, data scientists typically work with both unstructured and structured data. Data scientists excel in coding, machine learning, algorithms, and predictive analytics.

Required skills: Data collection/mining, machine learning, programming languages, predictive modeling, problem-solving, statistical analysis, and industry-specific knowledge
Responsibilities: Collecting, categorizing, visualizing, and extracting meaning from data
Median annual salary (May 2023): $108,020
Projected job outlook (2022–32): 35% growth

Machine learning engineer

A machine learning engineer is a specialized data scientist who creates algorithms for artificial intelligence systems. These individuals often communicate with other data science team members to implement their algorithms, design AI systems, run tests, and perform statistical analyses. Machine learning engineers typically use Python, R, Java, and C++ programming languages.

Required skills: Machine learning algorithms, artificial intelligence, problem-solving, programming languages, predictive modeling, statistical analysis, linear algebra, and communication
Responsibilities: Building machine learning models, collecting data, organizing data, identifying patterns, and communicating findings to stakeholders
Median annual salary (May 2023): $145,080 (computer and information research scientists)
Projected job outlook (2022–32): 23% growth

Opportunities for advancement with a master's in data analytics

Your data science education doesn't have to end with a master's in data analytics. Since the “ big data" landscape constantly evolves, you can always find opportunities to upskill and advance your career. Consider the following data analytics certifications:

Frequently asked questions about what you can do with a master's in data analytics

What degree is best for data analytics?

An online master’s in data analytics is a great option — especially for working professionals who want to learn at their own pace. A master’s degree can help you stand out to employers as you advance your career.

What is the starting salary with a master's in data analytics?

Every graduate’s experience can differ. According to the BLS, in 2023, the lowest 10% of data scientists earned a median annual salary of up to $61,070, while the highest 10% earned more than $184,090.

Is a data analyst a high-paying job?

Data analysts — depending on their experience, education, industry, and employer — typically earn higher-than-average salaries. Per the BLS, in 2023, data scientists made a median salary that was $59,960 more than the median for all occupations in the United States.

How do you become a data analyst?

You can become a data analyst via many different pathways, but most employers prefer candidates with a formal degree or professional certifications in data analytics.