There is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can harness the potential of data and extract valuable insights from it. Learn how you can earn a degree in data analytics with UMass Global's WASC Senior College and University Commission accredited programs.
Transform the Science of Data Insight
Business analysts gather and analyze information to identify a company’s areas of improvement, establish priorities, and set goals. They work in diverse fields including technology, government, retail, finance, and consulting firms. Pursuing a major in business data analytics can be an excellent choice as it equips students with a versatile skill set combining business acumen with advanced analytical expertise. Understanding the art of negotiation, how to complete extensive research, and how to extract meaningful insights are vital skills sought after by employers.
Additionally, with the continuous expansion of technology and data collection, the relevance and importance of this field continues to grow. Those with a blend of education and experience can also find the field to be highly lucrative.
WASC Senior College and University Commission
University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Related Articles
Technology
Understanding the Roles: Business Analyst vs. Business Intelligence
Technology
Guide to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Degrees
Technology
How Geospatial Analytics Is Changing Business and the World
Majoring in Data Analytics vs GIS
Deciding between majoring in data analytics or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) often boils down to personal interests and career goals. Data analytics focuses on the broader aspects of handling and interpreting data across various domains, providing a comprehensive skill set in statistical analysis, data visualization, and machine learning techniques. On the other hand, GIS is more specialized, honing in on geographical data, spatial analysis, and mapping technologies.
If one is inclined towards understanding spatial relationships, geographical data modeling, and applications in fields like urban planning, environmental science, or cartography, GIS might be the preferred choice. However, data analytics offers a wider scope of applications across industries, providing skills highly sought after in business, healthcare, finance, and beyond.
Testimonials
The UMass Global Institute for Geospatial Education responds to the worldwide critical demand for customized and focused geospatial upskilling. Organizations are looking for more than people who know what GIS is; they are looking for decision-makers capable of using geospatial thinking for problem-solving.
Michael Gould, Ph.D.
Geospatial Institute Affiliate
How Can GIS Be Used in Business?
GIS offers valuable applications in the business world, providing insights through spatial analysis that aid in decision-making processes. Businesses utilize GIS for location-based analytics, optimizing site selection for new branches, stores, or facilities based on demographic data, consumer behavior, and accessibility. It also assists in market segmentation, understanding regional differences in consumer preferences, and tailoring marketing strategies accordingly. Additionally, GIS plays a crucial role in supply chain management by optimizing logistics, route planning, and inventory management, reducing operational costs and improving efficiency.
Flexible Ways to Learn
At University of Massachusetts Global, we recognize that every student comes to us with a different set of needs. It’s why we introduced UMass Global MyPath to the School of Business & Professional Studies. A whole new competency-based education platform that offers a new way to earn your Business degree.
Select the best format that works for you.
MyPath: Online Self-Paced
(Competency-Based Programs)
- 100% online, self-paced, non-term
- Learning is based on competency mastery
- Start and stop on your own schedule
- Prior experience helps you master competencies faster
- Unlimited competencies and textbooks for one flat tuition fee
Online Instructor-Led
(Course-Based
Programs)
- Online, term-based
- Faculty lead course participation
- More structured learning approach
- Traditional grading system with fixed start date, end date, and cohort pacing
- Pay per course credit
From Numbers to Navigation: Harness the Power of Data
If you have a passion for numbers, problem-solving, and technology, pursuing a degree in data analytics could be the right path for you.
Programs Offered
Data Analytics & GIS
Business Admin (GIS & Data Analytics) *self-paced, BBA
Earn your degree online at your own pace with UMass Global MyPath. Gain skills in data management, spatial visualization, and programming — designed with Esri to prepare you for in-demand data analytics careers.
Jul 1, 2025
Business Admin (GIS & Data Analytics) *self-paced, BBA
Earn your degree online at your own pace with UMass Global MyPath. Gain skills in data management, spatial visualization, and programming — designed with Esri to prepare you for in-demand data analytics careers.
Bachelor's
Online (Self-Paced)
Competency Based
120
Credits
$3300/Credit
Next Start Date
Continuous Starts
Data Analytics & GIS
Business Administration (Bus Intel & Data Analytics), MBA
Learn to use industry-leading software (including Esri) and tools to gain business insights from data. With your Master of Business Administration in Data Analytics, you’ll build valuable skills that apply in virtually any industry.
Jun 23, 2025
Business Administration (Bus Intel & Data Analytics), MBA
Learn to use industry-leading software (including Esri) and tools to gain business insights from data. With your Master of Business Administration in Data Analytics, you’ll build valuable skills that apply in virtually any industry.
Master's
Online
Data Analytics & GIS
Business Intelligence & Data Analytics, Certificate
This online certificate teaches professionals how to make more effective business decisions based on data analysis using state-of-the-art software. The graduate-level business intelligence program can apply to a broad range of careers in private, nonprofit, and public sector organizations.
Jun 23, 2025
Business Intelligence & Data Analytics, Certificate
This online certificate teaches professionals how to make more effective business decisions based on data analysis using state-of-the-art software. The graduate-level business intelligence program can apply to a broad range of careers in private, nonprofit, and public sector organizations.
Certificates & Courses
Online
Data Analytics & GIS
Master of GIS & Data Analytics
This online master’s program focuses on business analytics skills for practical decision-making in organizations. It equips students with data analytics, data interpretation, spatial methods, communication, ethics, and project leadership abilities.
Jun 23, 2025
Master of GIS & Data Analytics
This online master’s program focuses on business analytics skills for practical decision-making in organizations. It equips students with data analytics, data interpretation, spatial methods, communication, ethics, and project leadership abilities.
Master's
Online
Frequently Asked Questions
In data analytics degree programs, students gain valuable data analysis skills that are applicable in various industries. They learn how to manipulate and analyze large datasets, identify patterns and trends, and communicate their findings effectively. Additionally, they develop expertise in data visualization tools and programming languages such as Python and SQL, which are essential for data analysis. These skills not only make graduates highly marketable but also equip them with the ability to drive data-informed decision-making in organizations.
Yes, a master's in data analytics is worth it. With the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making in organizations, professionals with advanced knowledge and skills in data analytics are in high demand. A master's degree in data analytics provides a deeper understanding of statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization techniques, making graduates well-equipped to tackle complex data challenges and drive innovation in their respective fields. Additionally, earning a master's degree can lead to higher earning potential and greater career advancement opportunities.
With a GIS degree, you can pursue various career paths in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, and geospatial analysis. Graduates often find employment as GIS analysts, cartographers, or remote sensing specialists, utilizing their skills to collect, analyze, and visualize geographic data. Additionally, GIS professionals play a crucial role in disaster management, helping organizations respond to and mitigate the impact of natural disasters through spatial analysis and mapping.
No, GIS does not require a lot of math. While a basic understanding of math concepts like geometry and algebra is helpful, the level of math required for GIS is typically not extensive. GIS software and tools have advanced to the point where complex calculations and analyses can be performed automatically, allowing users to focus more on interpreting and visualizing the data. However, having a strong analytical mindset and problem-solving skills can greatly benefit GIS professionals in their work.
To become a data scientist, a combination of education, experience, and skills is typically required. Many data scientists hold undergraduate and advanced degrees in fields such as computer science, statistics, or data analytics. In addition to formal education, gaining hands-on experience with data analysis and programming languages like Python and R is crucial. Some data scientists continue to invest in their education by obtaining certificates and attending bootcamps to further their knowledge. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest tools and techniques in the field are essential for long-term success.