The progress of nearly every single industry relies on data, and the field of education is no different. Without data, industries risk overlooking critical information that influences fact-based decision-making. Data improves strategic initiatives and addresses inequalities in education.
Careers in data are growing, with more demand for qualified professionals than ever before. The education landscape is no different, with jobs that require a deep knowledge of data and data analysis remaining popular.
Discover the value of quantitative research in education. Access our resource: Research Design and Data Analysis for the Social Good.
How Does Quantitative Data Analysis Impact Education?
Education is the avenue through which future industry leaders can successfully enact social change. As such, the education field remains a critical opportunity to harness the power of data and use its findings to inform policy and practice.
Conducting quantitative research and data analysis in education improves outcomes for the students who will go on to work as agents of change in the world. Educational institutions are quickly adopting quantitative and data analysis techniques and frameworks to more effectively:
- Augment learning experiences through data-driven insights
- Forecast future policy trends through predictive analysis
- Enhance institutional efficiency using dataset analytics
- Personalize instruction to students through AI or predictive modeling
- Allocate resources to students and staff based on survey analysis
- Revise educational policies through informative, innovative research
- Update curricula with cutting-edge discoveries
- Increase profit using an education-focused approach to data science
- Predict student success through qualitative data analysis
Discover some of the far-reaching impacts of quantitative research and data analysis in education with these cutting-edge research initiatives:
What Are Some Data Analysis Careers in Education?
As more and more industries recognize data's crucial role in impacting positive change, quantitative research and data analysis careers in education continue to grow. Here are just a few of the growing data analysis careers in education:
1. Education Statistician
Education statisticians are tasked with reviewing data and applying statistical analysis to problem solving. In the education field, statisticians collect and analyze quantitative data for educational institutions with the goal of improving institutional policies, academic programs and student learning outcomes.
- Average National Salary: $99,000
- Predicted Job Growth Rate: 30%
2. Psychometrician
Psychometrician professionals are responsible for measuring and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data through the lens of psychology and education. In education, psychometricians are tasked with conducting research before communicating data-driven insights to improve curricula, adjust educational assessments and identify best-practice learning techniques.
- Average National Salary: $91,000
- Predicted Job Growth Rate: 6%
3. Education Research Analyst
Education research analysts review, interpret and communicate data findings related to academic program performance for an educational institution. Their findings may be presented to administrators or policy makers to find areas of improvement or audit curricula to ensure that it includes the most up-to-date information and research.
- Average National Salary: $62,000
- Predicted Job Growth Rate: 19%
4. Education Data Scientist
Data scientists working in education develop statistical models and algorithms to uncover insights from quantitative, academic-focused data. Education data scientists use analytic tools and techniques to provide crucial information to administrators and education policy makers regarding institutional trends and enrollment numbers affecting student success and ultimately, the bottom line.
- Average National Salary: $103,000
- Predicted Job Growth Rate: 35%
5. Institutional Researcher
Institutional researchers are education- and data-minded professionals who gather and analyze quantitative data regarding the operations and effectiveness of educational institutions. They interpret their data findings and use it to make informed decisions regarding educational and organizational structure.
- Average National Salary: $98,000
- Predicted Job Growth Rate: 17%
6. Academic Performance Analyst
Performance analysts working in academia collect data related to student and program performance. They analyze quantitative student metrics like grades and test scores, and they work with faculty to determine which academic programs are effectively producing quality, capable graduates based on industry standards.
- Average National Salary: $76,000
- Predicted Job Growth Rate: 11%
7. Learning Analyst
Learning analysts use technology and data tools to uncover details about student interactions, activities and performance. They may also work with administrators, faculty or IT professionals to develop and refine online learning systems and generally work to ensure that students have an effective, efficient academic experience.
- Average National Salary: $81,000
- Predicted Job Growth Rate: 6%
Prepare to Work in Data Analysis in Education: Program Paths for Success
Peabody College at Vanderbilt University is home to a variety of nationally-recognized graduate education programs specifically designed to prepare future leaders in education to impact change and enhance the human condition.
We would like to highlight two graduate programs in particular that are vitally important for future quantitative data analysis leaders in the field of education:
Quantitative Methods (Master of Education)
Quantitative methods and analysis experts are needed across industries and academia to measure human behavior, design research studies, build models of behavioral processes and evaluate the efficacy of treatments — using analysis techniques to gain industry insights and provide data-backed solutions to myriad challenges.
“I gained all the skills needed for my current position through my Peabody education: quantitative and qualitative methods, programming in statistical software, and how to design research studies that not only meet the highest standards in social sciences but also carry practical significance. More importantly, as an international student who had zero social capital in the United States, I am extremely grateful for having worked with some of the most talented, warm-hearted colleagues and professors in the field of education.”
At Peabody college, we offer a rigorous, competitive Quantitative Methods M.Ed. for future data analysis leaders in education. The graduate education degree program allows you to work closely with faculty members to develop expertise in both the theory and application of quantitative analysis in behavioral, social and educational sciences. You will also have the opportunity to participate in an internship experience that teaches you to provide design, measurement and statistical support to other education leaders and policy makers.
Upon graduation, you will be equipped to apply your psychometric and data analytic skills in:
- health and medical settings
- business, government and industry positions
- dedicated research institutes
- school systems and other academic settings
Learn more about the Quantitative Methods program
Education Policy (Master of Public Policy)
Education policies include laws, guidelines and principles that inform the way in which education systems operate. Now more than ever, the field of education needs informed, strategic policy makers who can arrive at cutting-edge solutions and implement data-driven policies that will improve the lives of adults and children worldwide.
“[Vanderbilt’s] MPP program provided an opportunity to undertake training in policy development, analysis, and program evaluation while maintaining a clear focus on education. My Peabody experience provided the time, resources, and connections to help me identify the impact I desire to have in the education field, as well as the conditions necessary to create just, affirming, and thriving school communities. The technical training specific to the MPP program provided tangible skills I use daily.”
Peabody College offers a respected, research-focused Education Policy M.P.P that is designed for future leaders in education policy and practice. Its specific focus on education policy sets it apart, and its priority on teaching analytical skills produces graduates ready to meet the demands of the field. The M.P.P. emphasizes the role of research in understanding and shaping education policy and helps students develop the skills needed to implement policy changes that will impact schools and federal policy environments.
Within the M.P.P., you may choose among three tracks that allow you to tailor your classes to meet your specific interests: one being the Quantitative Methods in Education Policy track, in which you will take classes like:
- Politics and Policymaking
- American Educational History and Policy
- Research Design/Methods of Education Policy
- Statistical Inference
- Causal Inference
Learn more about the Education Policy program; download our Education Policy and Practice Guide
Transform Your Education Career with a Quantitative Research-Focused Graduate Education Degree from Peabody College
Fueled by the innovation coming out of our cutting-edge degree programs, Peabody College is dedicated to producing ethical, commitment-focused education leaders who have the tangible skills to translate quantitative research into the actionable steps needed to enhance humankind.
Through both our Quantitative Methods M.Ed. and Education Policy M.P.P with the Quantitative Methods in Education Policy track, you will achieve the marketable, sought-after skills needed to boost an education career that is focused on quantitative research and data analysis.
Are you ready to develop the data analysis skills needed to secure a transformative career in education? You’re in the right place: take this opportunity to request more information to connect with an admissions professional.
You may also review our admissions requirements and start your online application to jumpstart your education career today.
