Online Master of Science in Program Evaluation and Data Analytics

Are you passionate about applying data insights to drive organizational performance improvements? This online Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics from Arizona State University prepares you to make a positive social impact through data and evidence-based decision-making. Upon graduating, your critical thinking and analytical skills will be in high demand by employers across all industries, particularly in the public and nonprofit sectors.

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Quick facts

Next start date: 08/21/2025

Total classes: 11

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours: 33

Master leveraging data to improve organizational performance

This program evaluation and data analytics master’s builds interdisciplinary expertise at the intersection of statistics, computer science and management. You’ll learn how to use a variety of data tools and implement rigorous approaches to collecting, analyzing and interpreting data within public organizations. This includes creating visualizations, dashboards and automated reports to support decision-making. As a graduate, you can enhance organizational performance by gathering better data, improving the use of existing data, formally evaluating programs and implementing actions based on findings.

Prepare for careers in a variety of industries

The curriculum explores two fields: program evaluation, which focuses on using tools to assess policy or program impact, and data science. With an understanding of both, you’ll possess diverse knowledge that complements careers within think tanks, research groups, consulting groups and government agencies at all levels. You can also pursue data-driven roles in nonprofits and international development agencies to measure program effectiveness or enhance monitoring and evaluation capacity.

Unlike most data analytics curricula, this program stands out because it focuses on applications in the public and nonprofit sectors. The coursework explores common performance challenges and provides you with data-driven approaches to designing solutions. This can give you a leg up when pursuing positions in these sectors upon graduation. You’ll be equipped to help organizations leverage the power of data to make a positive social impact.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

Ideal candidates include those with social science or management knowledge seeking a broader skill set in advanced data analytics. This master’s is also an excellent choice for those with data analytics experience who want to apply their technical skills to the public sector. Regardless of your academic or professional background, you’ve found the right program if you’re passionate about using data to drive social and organizational change.

Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Online program evaluation and data analytics courses

In this program, you’ll take courses that build your understanding of key principles from the program evaluation and data analytics fields. Foundational program evaluation courses will cover multiple regression, research design and advanced regression tools. Core data analytics courses will introduce you to data programming in R, data wrangling and project management. The program culminates in an applied project where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in a real scenario with a client.

The jobs this master’s program prepares you for

With your ability to connect computer scientists, statisticians, financial analysts, policy experts and managers, you can become an integral member of interdisciplinary teams. Common career paths include analyst, program manager, researcher and consultant within organizations across the public and nonprofit sectors. Additional potential roles you can pursue include, but aren’t limited to:

Learn from leading practitioners in program evaluation and data analytics

The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:

Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.

Learn from leading practitioners in program evaluation and data analytics

Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.

How to apply

Applicants to the Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics degree must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.

Nationally recognized public service programs

The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.

#2

best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

#2

in the U.S. and #7 in the world for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings.

Top 5

Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report.

Top 10

best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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