5 Reasons Why Big Data Analytics Degrees Are Worth It

Due in large part to the rapid growth of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, big data analytics is approaching new heights. Students who pursue a degree in big data analytics learn how to effectively analyze large sets of data and identify patterns, connections and other pertinent details revealed by data. Companies are increasingly turning to data analytics to harness customer insights, and ultimately, produce better business decisions. As a result, big data analysts are in high demand and the data analytics field is showing no signs of slowing down. Here are five reasons why earning a degree in big data analytics pays off.

The Thriving Field

More and more universities are offering degrees in big data analytics to adjust to the growing job demand and close the skills gap, or in other words, produce more employable talent who can glean useful insights from big data. With massive amounts of data being produced daily, it’s no wonder why data analysts are in such high demand. Large corporations, such as Microsoft and IBM, analyze and leverage data in order to extract more information about clients. IBM, for example, divides clients by certain commonalities—such as industry, company size and revenue—to better segment prospects and create highly effective marketing campaigns.

A Generous Earning Potential

A career in big data is a lucrative career choice, with the national average salary for data-related careers hovering in the mid-90s (PayScale). Additionally, scientific and technical services, information technologies, retail, sustainability and professional services are often the leading industries in terms of having the most job openings in big data analytics.

Highly Rewarding for Business and Employees

Big data analysts typically wear several hats within an organization, but they focus on one key principle: to help companies make better business decisions by revealing useful insights from data. As a result, this is a highly esteemed position for any business professional, and one that is commonly cited as being both rewarding and satisfying.

Real-World Training and Preparation

Improvements in programming technology and graph databases, such as Neo4j, are continuing to transform the data analytics field and how data can be used. Companies around the world are recognizing more and more benefits of data analysis, and rely heavily on big data analysts to execute the job. As a result, many of the nation’s top engineering colleges are putting more emphasis on real-world experience inside the classroom, by supplementing classwork with hands-on training and lab work.

Join an Elite Pool of Talent

In order to succeed in a big data analytics career, it’s essential to have a deep understanding of science and mathematics—but that’s not all. The field also incorporates advanced knowledge of decision analysis and data mining, and it requires critical thinking and problem-solving to truly understand the information at hand. With this in mind, students can expect to work alongside some of the brightest and most talented peers. By collaborating with these individuals, students can gain a new perspective and understanding of complex topics.

For students looking for a career with a promising future, earning a degree in big data analytics is certainly a great option; big data analytics is a field with unlimited potential for growth and discovery.

About the Author

As the Director of Admissions at Florida Polytechnic University, Lauren Willison is responsible for supporting the Vice Provost of Enrollment in managing recruitment efforts. She develops and coordinates on- and off-campus events, as well as manages the campus visit experience.