Top Careers for Online Tech & Data Analytics Grads: From IT to Insight

An online tech and data analytics degree delivered through LSU Online combines foundational IT skills with advanced data insights to prepare graduates for in‑demand technology, analytics, and strategic business decision‑making roles.

Understanding how these roles differ and where your strengths lie can help you choose a path that aligns with your ambitions and sets you up for long-term success.

Whether your passion is optimizing IT systems, turning data into actionable insights, or leading cross-functional teams, this career guide will help you match interests to opportunities.

From the technical backbone of IT to the strategic foresight of data science, here's a detailed look at the most promising careers for tech and data analytics graduates.

A technology and data analytics program covers:

• Core IT competencies: Systems architecture, programming, database management, cybersecurity
• Data analytics skills: Data mining, statistical modeling, predictive analytics, data visualization
• Practical tools: Python or R, SQL, Tableau, cloud computing fundamentals
• Business acumen: Applying data insights to solve real-world business problems

Information systems analyst / IT consultant

Builds, integrates, and optimizes enterprise systems to support business operations. This may include analyzing and managing IT infrastructure, managing implementation, and aligning systems with strategic goals.

Database administrator / data engineer

Designs and maintains databases for reliable data storage and retrieval. Key responsibilities include tuning performance, ensuring data integrity, and enabling efficient access for analysts and data scientists.

IT manager / technology project manager

Oversees technical teams and ensures the smooth rollout of tech initiatives. Requires combining technical insight with leadership, planning, and budgeting capabilities.

Data analyst

Transforms raw data into business intelligence using tools like SQL, Excel, and Tableau. Tracks metrics, creates dashboards, and provides insights to guide decisions.

Business analyst

Bridges business goals and technical execution. Works with stakeholders to optimize processes, recommend system enhancements, and lead data-driven projects.

Operations research analyst

Uses statistical and mathematical techniques to solve business optimization problems, which are common in supply chain, logistics, and resource planning roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, operations research analyst roles are projected to grow 23% by 2033.

Data scientist

Applies machine learning, statistical models, and programming to extract deeper insights and build predictive solutions. According to the BLS, data scientists earn a median salary of $112,590 annually, and the field is projected to grow by 36% through 2033.

Statistician

Focuses on theoretical or applied statistics — designing experiments, conducting surveys, and modeling data. Statisticians are critical in industries like healthcare, government, and business, where their analyses guide policy decisions, product development, and process improvements.

Analytics manager / chief data officer

Leads data teams and strategy, overseeing analytics projects across an organization. These leaders are responsible for setting data governance policies and ensuring analytics initiatives align with business goals to drive innovation and competitive advantage.

All the programs delivered through LSU Online are accredited through the LSU system. 

Programs are designed so that you earn the same degree, understanding, quality, and accreditation as on-campus students, delivered through a convenient online format.

With 100% online certificates and degrees tailored for working professionals, the programs supported by LSU Online provide a one-of-a-kind learning experience that fits your schedule without sacrificing academic rigor.

The programs available through LSU Online are built to fit your busy schedule, allowing you to grow your career on your own time.

Here are a few examples of tech and data analytics programs delivered through LSU Online:

• LSU’s Graduate Certificate in Analytics
• LSU Alexandria’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
• LSU Shreveport’s Master of Business Administration in Data Analytics

A tech data analyst blends IT expertise with data analytics to turn complex datasets into actionable insights. They gather data through queries, clean and visualize information, and deliver dashboards and reports to guide business decisions.

A career in data analytics is a strong choice due to its high demand and rapid growth. 

As organizations collect more data than ever before, they need skilled professionals to interpret and leverage that information for smarter decision-making. Data analytics roles span nearly every sector — healthcare, finance, technology, marketing, and even sports — making it a versatile and future-proof career path.

While the average data analyst's salary is $112,590, according to the BLS, advanced roles — such as senior data scientist, analytics manager, or chief data officer — can surpass $200,000 with experience, leadership responsibilities, and expertise in tools like machine learning or big data platforms.

Graduates may pursue a range of roles, including data analyst, business analyst, operations research analyst, data scientist, statistician, analytics manager, database administrator, or IT consultant. Specialized sectors such as healthcare analytics also offer targeted options.

Yes, programming is essential. Proficiency in SQL for databases and languages like Python or R is typically required. Knowledge of visualization tools (e.g., Tableau) and scripting is also a key component of data analytics expertise.

If technology and data analysis excite you, now is the time to develop your skill set and build your professional credentials.

The online tech and data analytics programs delivered through LSU Online are built to:

• Prepare you for technical and analytical roles
• Offer flexible scheduling for working professionals
• Connect you with experienced faculty and real-world applications

To explore your options and determine the best fit for your goals, reach out to an Enrollment Coach for personalized guidance.

With the right program, you can transform your interest in tech and data into a career that leads, innovates, and delivers impact.

Request information to learn more about our accredited and flexible programs.