Wondering how long it will take to earn a master’ degree in data analytics? There’s no set answer. It can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months or more to complete a master’s degree in data analytics program. At Stonehill, full-time students complete our Data Analytics Master’s Degree Program in 12 months. Part-time students can take up to two courses per semester. Courses meet over a seven-week term.

Why the difference in completion time? Several things come into play — completion time depends on the structure of the program, the number of courses taken per term or semester, and whether or not the program offers courses year round or only during the fall, winter and spring semesters.

Organizations want employees who have acquired the ability to analyze and use data. Companies don’t want to wait for them to be trained.

Master’s in Data Analytics Full or Part Time? What’s the Time Difference?

If you plan to attend a data analytics program on a full-time basis, the curriculum for a master’s in data analytics is usually completed over three or four semesters. That means full-time students are usually able to graduate in 12 to 16 months, depending on whether or not a summer break is included in the program. 

Some programs offer students the opportunity to complete their degree on a part-time basis. Part-time programs generally take 24 to 36 months or more to complete. The length of time depends on the number of courses taken each semester.

Full-time students complete Stonehill's Data Analytics program over three semesters. Part-time students can take up to two courses per semester. Full- and part-time students begin their program in the fall, spring or summer semester.

Data Analytics Master’s Degree: In-Person, Online or Hybrid?

Gone are the days when master’s degree programs took place in-person in a classroom. Today, more degree programs than ever are offering using varied formats, from fully online to fully in-person. There are also programs that are designed in a hybrid format combining in-person and online coursework. 

If you’re thinking about earning your master’s in data analytics, it’s important to think about how you learn best. Some students do better in a traditional, on-campus setting. They may find it easier to concentrate and enjoy connecting, problem-solving, and networking with other students from a wide range of backgrounds. 

Other students prefer online learning. For them, things such as scheduling flexibility (important if students also hold a job or have a busy family life) and decreased commuting time/time saving are important. 

Still other students prefer a hybrid format, which combines in-person and online classes. Many times the in-person classes are held on weekends, which allows students to continue working while completing their master’s. 

Stonehill’s Data Analytics Master of Professional Studies Degree Program can be completed fully online or in a hybrid format.

One of the things we really wanted to do with the Master’s in Data Analytics program was to make it a close cohort of people. Students share best practices, talk about the challenges they face in their jobs, and share how they’re using the skills they learn in the degree. One of the things students can expect is close relationships with their fellow students and making connections and professional connections that will last a lifetime.

Stonehill’s Data Analytics Master of Professional Studies Degree Program

The Data Analytics Master’s Degree Program at Stonehill is based on a 12-month hybrid format. Students can start in the fall or spring semester. Classes occur over three semesters. Students may also complete the program part time and take up to two courses per semester. Full- and part-time students can start in the fall or spring semester. 

Courses in the program are delivered using a hybrid model of in-person and online coursework. It combines online with in-person instruction that brings students together on campus about one weekend a month.

Weekend course meetings begin Friday night. Students have dinner with faculty and other members of the cohort, before attending an evening class. Saturday begins with a cohort breakfast, followed by morning class, group lunch and afternoon class. Students return home around 4 or 5 p.m.

The advantage of this type of model is that students go through the program with the same cohort of people, thereby getting to know each other well. Students discuss best practices, talk about the challenges they face in their jobs, and share how they're putting into practice the skills they learn throughout the program. 

SAS Academic Specialization at Stonehill’s Data Analytics Master’s Degree Program

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A partnership with SAS, a worldwide leader in analytics software, gives graduate students in Stonehill’s data analytics program a valuable suite of resources and a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

SAS has granted Stonehill the ability to award a Tier 3 SAS Academic Specialization as part of the College’s Data Analytics Master of Professional Studies Degree Program. It is the highest level of credential that SAS offers its academic partners.

Students who complete the program will receive both a master’s degree and this academic specialization, affirming their technical expertise in conducting advanced data analysis in various SAS products. Students also have the option of pursuing up to two professional certifications.