Courses1 September 2025

How to Become a Data Analyst with an Online MCA or M.Sc. in Data Science

Explore how an Online MCA or MSc in Data Science can launch your data analyst career. Compare programs, skills, salaries & find the best online data science courses.

Y

yogita

Content Writer

A data analyst interpreting complex datasets on a laptop, demonstrating the core function of the role.

Making decisions based on data is gaining popularity worldwide, transforming businesses globally. Data Analysts have become one of the most sought-after professions due to this significant shift. There is an increasing interest in areas such as finance, healthcare, and marketing. Professionals or modern graduates can find jobs in this growing area with an MBA or another online degree. Pursuing an online MCA or MSc in Data Science is a negotiable and applicable way to learn Data Analytics programs online. 

Important planning needs data, which means that all businesses, not just IT ones, must be competent to analyze data. Those who can analyze data will always be competent to find work and apply their skills in various areas as data analysis gains popularity. Even when the job market shifts, this career path remains substantial and flexible. 

What does a data analyst do?

A Data Analyst plays a crucial role in helping businesses make knowledgeable decisions by uncovering patterns in data and providing important insights. They oversee the entire data lifecycle, beginning with acquiring data from various sources, such as APIs, databases, and web scraping. Once they obtain the data, the next step is to clean it. This involves identifying and correcting errors, addressing absent values, and resolving inconsistencies to ensure the data is true and reliable. Here are the key activities to consider:

  • Data collection and importing: Gather information from spreadsheets, APIs, and databases, among other sources.
  • Data cleaning and validation: Eliminate errors, duplicates, or unnecessary information to ensure the data remains accurate and consistent.
  • Collaborating with Teams: Ensure that data projects align with the company's objectives by collaborating closely with the IT, marketing, sales, and finance teams.

Online MCA vs. M.Sc. in Data Science: What’s the Difference?

Both degrees will help you get a job as a Data Analyst, but they focus on different things.


Online MCA in Data Science: This program is a great way to learn a lot about using a computer. It is ideal for people who want to learn how to code, create software, and analyze data but don't know much about technology. The curriculum is flexible and can help you get ready for jobs like database administrator, business analyst, or data analyst.


Online M.Sc. in Data Science: This degree offers a deeper understanding of the mathematics and statistics involved in data. It's perfect for individuals who are good at math, statistics, or computer skills. The classes cover high-level topics like prognostic modeling and machine learning, which build a substantial foundation for a Data Analyst career path or machine learning engineer.To determine whether this program truly meets your career aspirations, you may do a side-by-side  comparison of Universities and find the course that best fits your interests.

Explore Your Program Options

Online MCA Programs

Several top universities now offer an online MCA degree that emphasises data science. These programmes are designed for individuals who are presently employed. They provide live online classes, recorded lectures, and practical projects that are good in real-life situations.

What to look forward to:

  • Key subjects covered in school include data mining, big data analytics, cloud computing, and machine learning.
  • Manipal University, Lovely Professional University (LPU), and Jain University provide complete Online MCA programs.
  • Many colleges and universities ask for a Bachelor's degree, typically with a minimum percentage requirement. A brief entrance exam or interview might also be part of the process.

Online M.Sc. in Data Science Programs

An Online M.Sc. in Data Science provides a complete look at the math and statistics essential for the field.

What to look forward to:

  • Predictive analytics, “natural language processing (NLP)”, and “statistical methods” for data science will be covered in classes. 
  • Many top universities offer best online Data Science courses. Some examples are Amity University, Manipal University, and Chandigarh University
  • Generally, you need a bachelor's degree in math, statistics, or computer science to enter this field.

How to Become a Data Analyst

With your online degree, you have the skills to find a job. Here’s how to make it happen: 

  • Useful Tools to Have: Learn how to work with programming languages like “Python”, “R”, and “SQL”. Familiarize yourself with tools for visualizing data, such as “Power BI” or “Tableau”. 
  • Build a portfolio by getting hands-on experience while you’re in college. This could include examining a public dataset or creating a model that predicts future events. A strong portfolio shows your skills to potential employers. 
  • Obtain your certification and connect with new individuals: Network with other professionals and consider getting additional certifications to stand out.

Conclusion

When choosing between programs, consider your interests and career direction. An Online MCA is great for the person wanting to strengthen skills in computer applications and software development. On the other hand, an Online M.Sc. in Data Science works for the ones who like dealing with statistics, data models, and research-based job roles. The right program would depend on whether you see yourself building systems or unraveling insights from data. Still if you have any doubts, you can speak with our Counselor to understand which program matches your career goals.


FAQs about Courses

Can I become a Data Analyst after I get my MCA?

Yes, getting an MCA with a focus on data science is a great way to become a Data Analyst.


Do I need to know how to write code to look at data?

Yes, coding is a basic skill. You need to know how to use SQL, Python, and R to work with data.


What is the average salary?

In India, a Data Analyst makes between ₹4 lakhs and ₹12 lakhs a year. People with higher degrees often make more money.


Is a degree earned online real?

Yes, a degree from an accredited university is real and will help you find a job in data analytics.


Tags:data analystonline MCAonline MSconline educationonline degreecareer in data analyticsdata science programs