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Top Accredited Online Data Science Degree Programs on a Budget

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In 2016, Glassdoor named “data scientist” the highest-paying job on the market—and it stayed at the top in 2017, 2018, and 2019.

Is it still worth pursuing in 2025? Absolutely! Data science is still one of the most successful and in-demand careers out there, but not enough people to fill those roles. That means strong job opportunities and high salaries.

Featured Programs

While data science degrees are known to be expensive, there are now more affordable options than ever—especially online. Thanks to online learning and flexible options, you can get an accredited online data science degree without piling on massive student debt.

In this article, we’ll break down the top budget-friendly accredited online data science degree programs—bachelor’s and master’s—plus give you tips to save even more money along the way.

Related:

Why Choose an Online Data Science Degree?

“Traditional learning is better because they have classrooms and face-to-face interaction,” some might say. While that was once true, online education has made significant strides in recent years—and in many cases, it now matches or even surpasses the flexibility and value of traditional learning.

Here’s why affordable online data science programs might be the smarter choice for many students today:

  1. Flexibility: Online degrees are ideal for working professionals, parents, or anyone with a packed schedule. You can learn during your lunch break, late at night, or on weekends—whatever works for you.
  2. No Need to Relocate: Top-notch schools are now offering data science programs online. That means you don’t have to move across the country (or pay out-of-state tuition) to get a quality education.
  3. Lower Costs: Tuition for online degrees is often more affordable than for on-campus programs. Plus, you save on commuting, housing, and campus fees.
  4. Hands-On Learning Is Still a Thing: Think online school is just reading PDFs and taking quizzes? Think again. Many programs offer interactive labs, group projects, and real-world capstone work that prepares you for actual jobs.

What to Look for in a Budget-Friendly Data Science Program

Because online data science degrees have become so popular, many schools now offer them. However, not all of these programs are good or trustworthy. When looking for the cheapest online data science degree, it’s important to be careful and avoid scams or low-quality programs.

Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

  • Accreditation: This is huge. Always check if the school is accredited by a recognized agency (regional is best). An accredited online data science degree = credibility, access to federal aid, and better job prospects.
  • Transparent Tuition and Fees: No one likes surprise charges. Ensure the program is transparent about costs per credit, technology fees, and other relevant details.
  • Financial Aid & Scholarships: Even affordable programs can become more affordable if you qualify for grants, scholarships, or employer tuition reimbursement.
  • Strong Curriculum: Look for courses in Python, R, statistics, machine learning, big data tools, and data visualization. Bonus if the program includes capstone projects or internships.
  • Career Support: A good program will help you prepare for the job market with resume help, interview coaching, and job placement assistance.
  • Program Length & Flexibility: Is it self-paced? Can you finish faster and save money? Does it offer full-time and part-time options?

Top 6 Accredited Online Data Science Degree Programs on a Budget

1. Western Governors University (WGU)

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities (NWCCU)
  • Cost: $4,035 per term
  • Key Features:
    • Competency-based (finish faster = save more)
    • Self-paced and ideal for motivated learners
    • Industry-relevant curriculum, including SQL, data visualization, and Python
  • Best For: Fast learners, working adults who want to blaze through quickly and cheaply

Why WGU: Its genius pricing model has allowed WGU’s program to rank as one of the best accredited online data science degree options. You pay per term, not per credit. So, if you can tackle more classes in a short time, you graduate faster and pay less.

2. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

  • Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Cost: $330 per credit hour
  • Key Features:
    • Strong student support services (academic advising, tutoring, career help)
    • Transfer-friendly
    • Financial aid and scholarships available
  • Best For: Career changers, transfer students, and anyone looking for a supportive online experience

Why SNHU: In addition to providing one of the best budget-friendly data science degrees, SNHU is also known for being student-focused and flexible. Their online platform is user-friendly.

3. University of Illinois Springfield

  • Degree: Online Master of Science in Data Analytics
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Cost: $407 per credit
  • Key Features:
    • A public university with low tuition
    • Work with real-world problems using public datasets from government and international organizations.
    • Collaborate with faculty on projects in big data, data mining, machine learning, and statistics.
  • Best For: Students who want to earn an online master’s in data science and engage in research through literature reviews, discussion forums, and final projects guided by professors.

Why UIS Rocks: You get a solid education in analytics and programming without paying a fortune, plus the flexibility of online learning.

4. Eastern Oregon University

  • Degree: Online Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities (NWCCU)
  • Cost: $329 per credit
  • Key Features:
    • Offers a wide-ranging curriculum and uses the latest industry tools
    • Small class sizes, personalized attention
    • Great for Oregon residents and online learners nationwide
  • Best For: Students who have associate degrees and have completed required math and computer courses.

Why EOU Rocks: It’s one of the cheapest accredited online bachelor’s in data science degrees, and the ability to finish the degree in just two years by studying at an accelerated pace makes it even more flexible.

5. Colorado State University Global

  • Degree: Online B.S. with a Certificate in Data Management and Analysis
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Cost: $375 per credit
  • Key Features:
    • 100% online and self-paced options
    • Prior learning credit is available
    • Career-focused curriculum with industry tools
  • Best For: Best for adult learners who want to earn a bachelor’s degree in fields like Business Management, Healthcare Administration, Information Technology, or Marketing.

Why CSU Global Rocks: Their model is perfect for returning students or adults who want to complete their degree while working full-time.

6. Dakota State University (DSU)

  • Degree: Online Master of Science in Analytics & Applied Artificial Intelligence
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Cost: $3,365.10 per semester
  • Key Features:
    • Emphasis on AI + data analytics
    • Designed for working professionals
    • Online access to research tools and expert faculty
  • Best For: Those with a bachelor’s who want to level up without spending a fortune

Why DSU Rocks: It’s rare to find high-quality, low-cost data science degree programs—but DSU nails it, especially with the tech/AI twist.

Financial Tips for Saving on Your Data Science Degree

Wanna stretch your dollar even more? Try these smart strategies when pursuing an accredited online data science degree:

  1. Fill out the FAFSA early. Seriously, don’t skip this step. Federal grants and low-interest loans can make a big difference.
  2. Look for online or in-state discounts. Some schools offer reduced rates for online-only students—even if you’re out-of-state.
  3. Scholarships are your friend. Search for STEM scholarships, data science-specific awards, or ones for women, BIPOC, or first-gen students.
  4. Start at a community college. Complete your general ed classes at a low-cost community college, then transfer to a 4-year online program.
  5. Use employer tuition reimbursement. If you’re working, check if your job offers education benefits. It’s free money!
  6. Go self-paced when possible. Programs like WGU let you finish faster. If you’re motivated, this can significantly reduce your total tuition.

Why Accreditation Matters in Data Science

This might sound boring, but online data science schools accredited by recognized organizations are a huge deal. Here’s why:

  • Quality Guarantee: Accredited programs meet educational standards.
  • Federal Aid Access: Only accredited schools let you use federal grants or loans.
  • Employers Care: Many jobs (especially in tech) require degrees from regionally accredited schools.
  • Credit Transfer & Grad School: Want to earn a master’s later? You’ll need accredited credits to get in.

To double-check a school’s accreditation, check the CHEA or U.S. Department of Education websites.

Conclusion

You don’t need to drop $100K or relocate to Silicon Valley to get into data science. You can still earn the best online data science degree on a budget without compromising on quality or career opportunities. Whether you’re starting fresh, switching careers, or upgrading your skills, there’s a program out there that fits your budget and your lifestyle.

So, take your time to research, compare costs, and think about what works best for you. Technology has opened the doors to inexpensive data science degrees online—now it’s your turn to walk through them.