Business analysts provide the insight and business solutions that help employers make data-driven decisions. Finding the best master’s degrees in business analytics for your needs and wants can be difficult, which is why we’ve compiled the top online and on-campus business analytics master’s degree programs in the country.
If you want to advance your career in this field, a master’s degree in business analytics is a great option for you. In our list of the best business analytics master’s degrees, we’ve included details such as the cost of tuition, admission requirements, number of required credits, and more. We’ve also included a list of the best business analytics master’s degree jobs.
What Is Business Analytics?
Business analytics refers to the use of advanced tools for performing quantitative and predictive analytics to understand, transform, and predict data. Business analysts identify and predict future trends and outcomes, enabling businesses to make more informed decisions based on real-world data. Analysts use a wide range of technical skills and analytical tools to do so.
Career paths in business analytics include project management, database management, prescriptive analytics, and even cloud computing. If you have a strong foundation in quantitative methods and business skills, you can earn a high salary. Business analysts have some of the best jobs in the tech field and a master’s degree can help you achieve these career goals.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics?
The best colleges where you can get a Master’s Degree in Business Analysis are Carnegie Mellon University, Columbia University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Notre Dame. Each of these schools can provide you with the necessary advanced business analytics skills you’ll need to excel.
What Schools Offer the Best Business Analytics Master’s Degrees?
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Columbia University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Notre Dame
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics are often different from school to school, but always require at least having a bachelor’s degree. Many schools also require applicants to submit their standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, essays, and a resume. Applicants may also be asked to pass an interview in certain situations.
While there are no specific required languages for a business analysis master’s degree program applicants, most programs want applicants with a solid background in programming, database management and analysis, and statistics. Many programs will also favor applicants with a few years of relevant work experience.
Business Analysis Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree and a competitive college GPA
- Competitive GMAT or GRE test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Essays
- Resume
- Background in programming, statistics, and database management and analysis,
- Relevant work experience
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics
You can get a business analysis master’s degree by completing all of the requirements determined by the institution offering the program. These will vary from program to program, but typically include completing a specific number of credits, maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA throughout your studies, and completing a capstone project and sometimes an internship.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics?
You typically need 30 to 36 credits for a Master’s Degree in Business Analysis. The specific number of required credits will differ from institution to institution and whether they use the semester credit or quarter credit system. These credits will need to be earned from a combination of core courses and elective courses.
Business Analytics Degree Requirements
- Completing the required number of credits
- Maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA
- Completing a capstone project
- Completing an internship
Best Business Analytics Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
School | Program | Accreditation |
---|---|---|
Carnegie Mellon University | Master of Business Administration | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business |
Carnegie Mellon University | Master of Information Systems Management: Business Intelligence & Data Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Columbia University | Master of Science in Applied Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Cornell University | Master of Business Administration | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges |
Fordham University | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Indiana University | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
Johns Hopkins University | Master of Science in Business Analytics and Risk Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Master of Business Analytics | New England Association of Schools and Colleges |
Rochester Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
University of Florida | Master of Science in Information Systems and Operations Management: Business Intelligence & Analytics Specialization | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Colleges for Business Analytics: Top Business Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
The best schools for business analytics master’s degrees can be found across the country. Whether you are looking for a part-time or full-time program, the best business analytics master’s degree programs will provide you with the skills you need for your future career.
In this next section, we’ve covered the top in-person business analytics master’s degree programs as well as a breakdown of their cost, duration, admission requirements, and application process. If you want to study at a university campus, this list will help you find the best school that fits your needs.
Best Online Business Analytics Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
School | Program | Accreditation |
---|---|---|
Auburn University | Master of Business Administration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Drexel University | Master of Science in Data Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Duke University | Master of Science in Quantitative Management: Business Analytics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Lehigh University | Master of Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Oklahoma State University | Master of Science in Business Analytics and Data Science | Higher Learning Commission |
Pepperdine University | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
Syracuse University | Master of Science in Business Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Texas A&M University | Master of Science in Analytics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Temple University | Master of Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
University of Notre Dame | Master’s in Data Science | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Colleges for Business Analytics: Top Online Business Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
Attending school in person isn’t always possible. Luckily, the number of options for distance learners has dramatically increased and with it, so has the acceptance of degrees earned online by employers. If you want to get your Master’s Degree in Business Analytics online, the following list will help you find the perfect program.
What Is a Business Analytics Master’s Degree?
A Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is a graduate program focused on teaching students how to identify opportunities in big data and apply their findings to real-world business challenges. An analyst’s insights can lead to more strategic management, improved financial performance, and increased operational efficiencies within a company.
Having earned a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics or in a similar field of study serves as proof that you can support an organization’s growth by allowing them to make more informed business decisions. Master’s degrees usually take two years to complete and, although they can be expensive, they are valuable credentials to have in the field.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics?
A Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is important if you want to achieve the highest salary potential possible in the field and work in high-up positions. While a master’s degree is not the minimum educational requirement for most positions in the field, having earned one will certainly give you a leg up over other applicants and also qualify you for a higher starting salary.
What Types of Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Business Analytics?
You can get the following types of master’s degree’s for business analysis:
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Science
- Master of Information Systems Management
The best type of master’s degree to get in business analysis depends on your educational and career goals. Each of the business analytics master’s degree types listed above differs in terms of what their courses focus on and the kinds of jobs and career paths they open you up to after graduating.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Business Administration in Business Analytics?
It’s better to get a Master of Science in Business analysis if you prefer to work with numbers, data, and financial analysis tools. A Master of Science will provide you with more lab work where you’ll develop hands-on skills with the techniques and theories concerning business analytics and allow you to work in more technical positions in the field.
That being said, a Master of Business Administration in Business Analytics is better if you are more interested in working in managerial and leadership positions in the field of business analytics. A Master of Business Administration degree program will provide you with more courses focussing on building communication, management, and leadership skills.
What Is the Difference Between a Business Analytics Master’s Degree and a Business Analytics Certificate?
The main difference between a master’s degree and a graduate certificate in business analytics is that certificates are shorter and require fewer classes, but provide less in-depth knowledge and qualify you for fewer positions compared to a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics.
You should get a business analytics master’s degree instead of a certificate because of the benefits it provides compared to a certificate, especially if you’ve just completed your bachelor’s degree or only have a few years of experience. That being said, certificates are great for professionals with lots of experience simply looking to diversify their skillset.
How Much Does a Business Analytics Master’s Degree Cost?
A business analytics master’s degree costs an average of $18,416 per year in tuition, according to the National Center of Education Statistics (NCES). The actual cost of going to business school for your master’s can differ depending on the school you attend. Attending an online school can help you save money by eliminating certain costs.
When budgeting for your graduate education, make sure to factor in costs such as living expenses, transportation, and study materials.The best way you can reduce the cost of your education is by applying for financial aid opportunities like federal loans or scholarships. The financial advisor at your school can help you find what you’re eligible for.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Analytics Master’s Degree?
It takes an average of two years to get a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics when studying full-time. This can change from program to program, as some are tailored for working professionals who can only study part-time while others offer an accelerated program meant to be completed within a year.
To look at it another way, if a program requires the completion of 36 credits, this means that you’ll need to complete an average of nine credits per semester over four semesters to finish your degree within two years. Most master’s degree programs allow you to transfer up to nine credits towards the completion of your degree, allowing you to finish a semester earlier.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics?
A Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is relatively hard to get for two major reasons. The first is that most business analytics master’s degree programs are extremely competitive to get into, often having strict application requirements and small class sizes. The other is that the subject matter is relatively complex and can be challenging to master.
Why Should You Get a Business Analytics Master’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics are numerous. Most importantly, a master’s degree gives you a major leg up during the application process for a wide variety of jobs in the industry. Additionally, they allow you to earn a relatively higher base salary while also providing you with more opportunities for growth in your career.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Business Analytics?
The required courses for a business analytics master’s degree are dependent on the specific program you’re enrolled in. A Master of Science degree program will have a different selection of courses than a Master of Business Administration program. That being said, there are some common courses you are likely to see no matter the program. Here are some of them.
Programming
Programming skills are extremely important for business analytics professionals. A programming course will teach you the functions, algorithms, and syntax used by one or multiple programming languages. Typically, the most common programming languages business analysts use are R and Python.
Probability and Statistics
Using data such as statistics and being able to correctly predict the risk factors and potential return on investments for a company is one of the most important skills you’ll need for a career in business analytics. A probability and statistics course will teach you how to use the tools used for data analysis so that you can help businesses make better decisions.
Managing Teams and Organizations
One of the main purposes of getting a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is to more easily land managerial and leadership positions. A course on managing teams and organizations will help you better understand the interpersonal skills you need to lead a team effectively, resolve conflicts, and create a positive and productive working environment.
Analytical Marketing
An analytical marketing course will teach you how to use the modern-day tools and technologies used in the marketing sector. Data analysis has quickly become the most efficient and effective way to predict what will and won’t sell, and knowing how to do so will help you lead the business you work for to succeed.
Financial Data Analytics
A course in financial data analytics will give you a deeper understanding of the specific data analytics tools, technologies, and methods used in the finance sector. While data analysis is important to all industries, knowing the best ways to apply data analysis to the field of finance will help you be a more effective financial analyst.
Continuing Education Paths for Business Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a business analytics master’s degree is to get a PhD if you want to focus on research related to data analysis or get additional certifications with certain tools or techniques. While these can help increase your earning potential, they aren’t necessary for the vast majority of jobs related to business analytics.
Related Business Analytics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Business Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
The best business analytics master’s degree programs have a good reputation, high graduation, a wide range of student services, an affordable cost and ways to mitigate it, as well as faculty with strong credentials. Knowing what to look for in a college for a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics will help you pick the one that is best for you.
Reputation
A program or school having a good reputation is beneficial for many reasons. Looking at reviews left by alumni or current students will help you determine whether or not the education experience the school provides resonates with you and your needs. Additionally, having a highly reputable school on your resume can be a tremendous help when applying for jobs.
Graduation Rate
A school’s graduation rate is an extremely important statistic to look at during your school search. A low graduation rate can be a signifier that the school doesn’t provide a pleasant educational experience or that its students aren’t supported if ever they’re struggling. A high graduation rate typically signifies the exact opposite.
Faculty Credentials
The quality of the faculty for a master’s degree program is absolutely vital to consider. Because you’ll be working so closely alongside them, you want to make sure that the school’s faculty will be able to teach you the theories and practices as well as possible. Your professors can also serve as extremely strong connections when entering the professional world.
Cost
While you can always expect to pay a significant sum of money to earn your master’s degree, not all schools and programs provide the same amount of financial support through scholarships or bursaries. Make sure that the school you want to attend can help you manage the cost of your education as much as possible.
Student Services
Although not always evident, student services play a vital part in helping you succeed in your higher education journey. Student services encompass financial services, religious services, and mental and physical health services, among others. Make sure that the school you plan on attending can help you succeed in as many ways as possible.
What Is the Most Affordable Business Analytics Master’s Degree?
The most affordable business analytics master’s degree program is the Master of Science in Business Analytics and Data Science offered online by Oklahoma State University. At $481.15 per credit for in-state students, this means that this 33-credit program will cost a total of $15,877.95 including fees.
Salary and Job Outlook for Business Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
The best Master’s Degree in Business Analytics jobs will let you use the practical knowledge and skills you’ve gained to expertly handle real-world business problems and guide your business to success. Below, we’ve broken down some of the best tech careers for business majors as well as the average Master’s Degree in Business Analytics salary.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Business Analytics Master’s Degree?
It’s not hard to get a job with a business analytics master’s degree. Data analysis jobs are in high demand across all industries, meaning that there are many job opportunities available. Additionally, a bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum education requirement for most jobs in the field, and having a master’s degree will give you a leg up compared to other applicants.
What’s the Average Business Analytics Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is $74,000, according to PayScale. The amount you earn can increase significantly as you gain experience and develop your analytical skills. People from all academic backgrounds can get jobs in this field, but a master’s degree will help you learn advanced business analytics and more.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Business Analytics Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a business analytics master’s degree are varied, although often in managerial or leadership roles, and can be found across a wide range of areas. These include positions such as chief technology officer, manager of financial planning and analysis, senior business analyst, senior financial analyst, and senior marketing analyst.
Business Analytics Degree Jobs
- Chief technology officer
- Manager of financial planning and analysis
- Senior business analyst
- Senior financial analyst
- Senior marketing analyst
Potential Careers With a Business Analytics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics?
You can make between $76,883 and $165,946 per year with a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics. The actual amount of money you’ll make after graduating will depend on a number of factors including your job title and experience, where you work, and the business or company you work for.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you can make a significant amount more money with a master’s degree compared to someone with only a bachelor’s degree. Their research indicates that master’s degree holders make, on average, $240 more per week than bachelor’s degree holders. Over a year, that’s an additional $12,480.
Highest-Paying Business Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
Business Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
---|---|
Chief Technology Officer (CTO) | $165,946 |
Machine Learning Engineer | $112,669 |
Manager of Financial Planning and Analysis | $102,865 |
Business Insight and Analytics Manager | $102,425 |
Senior Business Analyst | $86,614 |
Quantitative Analyst | $86,293 |
Analytics Consultant | $85,290 |
Senior Financial Analyst | $83,063 |
Statistician | $78,261 |
Senior Marketing Analyst | $76,883 |
Best Jobs for Business Analytics Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for business analytics master’s degree grads are typically managerial positions that oversee data analysis teams but also include more technical positions working in data analysis. Across the board, these positions earn a high salary and have a positive projected job outlook.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Business Analytics Bootcamp vs Business Analytics Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A business analytics master’s degree is better compared to a business analytics bootcamp if you want an in-depth educational experience, but a bootcamp is better for gaining hands-on experience in a shorter amount of time. Below is a list of some of the major benefits of a master’s degree versus attending an online bootcamp.
Benefits of a Business Analytics Master’s Degree
- More job opportunities. Business analysts are in high demand and the competition among bachelor’s degree holders is equally as high. Having a business analytics master’s degree is a great way to stay ahead of the competition.
- Stronger networking opportunities. When you enroll in a master’s degree program, you gain the opportunity to meet numerous professionals and veterans of the business analytics industry. Networking can open up many doors as well as provide invaluable insight into the business analytics field.
- Higher earning potential. Recruiters across industries tend to opt for candidates who have a proven track record and accredited degrees. A Master’s Degree in Business Analytics will grant you access to better-paying jobs and allow you to shape your career according to your interests and goals.
- Bigger alumni network. Most universities have a long and established network of alumni who can help new graduates find work in the field. Being a university alumn can also often come with additional perks such as discounts, access to university facilities, and more.
- Broader education. Master’s degree programs tend to offer a curriculum covering a broader range of topics or specialized areas of study. This benefits you by allowing you to develop a wider skillset which, in the long run, will provide you with more job and growth opportunities.
Benefits of a Business Analytics Bootcamp
- More career services. Coding bootcamps teach you the exact skills employers want and are often partnered with businesses seeking to fill technical talent gaps in their pool of candidates. The content bootcamps teach is always up-to-date and relevant based on the needs of their corporate partners in various industries.
- Designed for distanced education. Bootcamps are a great way to increase your expertise without having to travel or leave your house, as most of them are designed for online training. Their instructors are professional experts who can help you improve your practical skills and provide you with plenty of advice and feedback.
- Specialized learning. Bootcamps offer intensive training in coding, business analytics, data science, digital marketing, user experience design, and even cyber security. These education options allow you to save money while quickly developing and specializing your business analytics knowledge.
- Shorter time-frame. While the average master’s degree program takes about two years to complete, most bootcamps only last three to nine months. This shorter time frame is perfect for any working professional looking to upskill or reskill for a new career.
- Cheaper. Just like master’s degree programs, the cost of bootcamps can fluctuate significantly. That being said, the average cost of a bootcamp is significantly less expensive than that of a master’s degree due to the length of the program and the depth of the training.
Is a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is worth it if you want to occupy leadership positions while using and interpreting data to solve complex business issues. This degree will help you utilize data to effectively improve decision-making processes at any organization. The right program will teach you to apply your technical analysis skills in a business context.
Even in an online format, you’ll get access to elective classes, networking events, and even marketing programs. You can also access admissions events before you apply. No matter how many semester hours of coursework you complete, getting a master’s degree at a college of business is a great choice.
Additional Reading About Business Analysis
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Business Analytics Master’s Degree FAQ
The amount of work experience you need to apply for a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is different from program to program. While some don’t require any, most will prioritize applicants with at least two years of professional experience and strong recommendations from their employers.
Yes, business analytics is difficult. Analysts need the ability to perform statistical analysis and make business decisions on a massive scale. Developing these skills requires commitment and an ability to stay on top of industry trends and new technologies. It can be difficult, but it is absolutely possible if you are committed and dedicated.
The process of business analytics does not require extensive coding, math, or computer science knowledge. That being said, knowledge of these fields can be very useful. Business analytics is a great career fit for those who enjoy solving complex problems and offering practical conclusions based on real business data.
If you are committed to a career in this field, it is typically best to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Business Administration, Information Technology, or a related field. Afterward, you can get your master’s degree, build your portfolio, and apply for jobs.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.