5 Reasons to Get a Degree in Big Data Analytics

Guest post by Tonya Chestnut, Associate Director of Admissions at Florida Polytechnic University.

The study of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is taking the field of big data analytics to new heights. Students pursuing a degree in big data analytics study the process of analyzing large datasets to discover patterns, connections and other useful, pertinent information revealed by data.
Companies are increasingly turning to data analytics to harness customer insights to produce better business decisions to drive growth. As a result, the big data analytics field is in high demand and showing no sign of slowing down. Here are the top five reasons students should pursue a degree in big data analytics.

Reason 1: The Field is Flourishing

Big data analytics degrees are on the rise because of the growing job demand and the small pool of employable talent who can glean useful insights from big data. With the amount of data growing exponentially every day, it’s no wonder more data analysts are needed in the job market. One of the ways big corporations such as IBM and Microsoft are harnessing this data growth is to discover more information about clients. Dividing clients by certain commonalities, such as revenue, company size and industry, enables IBM to segment prospects and create highly effective marketing and sales initiatives.

Reason 2: High Earning Potential

With the national average topping $98,035 a year, a big data is a lucrative career choice. (PayScale). The leading industries with the most job openings in big data analytics include scientific services, technical services, information technologies, manufacturing, retail trade, sustainability and professional services.

Reason 3: Working to Maximize Business Profit

Big data analysts perform a variety of business functions, but have one primary goal: reveal patterns found in data to help companies make better business decisions. This is an important and highly esteemed role for any business professional. As a result, analysts commonly cite this as highly rewarding and satisfying career.

Reason 4: Fast-Paced Work Environment

Advancements in programing technology and graph databases, like Neo4j, are producing lightning-fast transformations in big data analytics. Companies around the world are demanding higher levels of data analysis, and rely on big data analysts to execute the job. As a result, top engineering colleges are offering students real-world world experience inside the classroom, by supplementing classwork with innovation labs and hands on training.

Reason 5: Working with Incredibly Talented Individuals

Big data analytics requires a deep understanding of science and mathematics. The field incorporates advanced knowledge of decision analysis, data mining and programming to gain a better understanding of information. Naturally, students can expect to work alongside some of the brightest, most talented students in a university. Collaborating with knowledgeable individuals helps students gain their own understanding of complex topics.

Big data analytics is an emerging field with unlimited potential for growth. If you’re a student looking for a promising future, earning a degree in big data analytics is a great option.

Tonya Chestnut

As the Associate Director of Admissions at Florida Polytechnic University, Tonya Chestnut actively recruits students and conducts group tours, in addition to traveling throughout northern and central Florida to meet students and guidance counselors in person. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Keiser University in Lakeland, and has also attended a one-year program on leadership and management at Saint Leo University.