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The Best Master’s Degrees in Business Analytics to Further Your Career

Business analytics is a competitive industry. This is one of the many reasons a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is important if you want to start your career in the field.

A business analytics master’s program will help you stand out from other professionals and secure leadership roles in business. Your degree will be proof of your competence in data analytics, statistics for data science, and project management.

In this comprehensive guide, we will review the best business analytics master’s programs that can help further your career.

Overview: The Top 20 Master’s Degrees in Business Analytics

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You can complete your Master’s Degree in Business Analytics either in-person or online. To get you started, we have compiled this list of the best business analytics master’s programs. The information below is collected from each school’s respective website.

School and Degree State Tuition Online Option
Arizona State University
Master of Science in Business Analytics
AZ $33,608 in-state
$53,288 out-of-state
Yes
Carnegie Mellon University
Master of Science in Business Analytics
PA $69,500 Yes, hybrid
Columbia University
Master of Science in Business Analytics
NY $60,100 No
Duke University
Master of Quantitative Management
NC $73,290 No
George Washington University
Master of Science in Business Analytics
DC $1,830 per credit hour No
Georgia Institute of Technology
Master of Science in Analytics
GA $275 per credit hour Yes
Kent State University
Master of Science in Business Analytics
OH $5,900 in-state
$10,990 out-of-state
Yes
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Master of Business Analytics
MA $77,170 No
Michigan State University
Master’s in Business Data Science & Analytics
MI $36,000 in-state
$39,000 out-of-state
No
New York University
Master of Science in Business Analytics
NY $81,400 Yes, hybrid
North Carolina State University
Master of Science in Analytics
NC $24,530 in-state
$47,130 out-of-state
No
Purdue University – West Lafayette
Master of Science in Business Analytics
and Information Management
IN $24,300 in-state
$34,200 out-of-state
No
UC Davis, Graduate School of Management
Master of Science in Business Analytics
CA $58,910 No
UCLA Anderson School of Management
Master of Science in Business
CA $65,120 No
University of Chicago
MBA in Business Analytics Concentration
IL $73,440 full-time
$7,340 part-time (per course)
No
University of Minnesota
Master of Science in Business Analytics
MN $45,900 in-state
$65,250 out-of-state
No
University of Notre Dame
Master of Science in Business Analytics
IN $54,580 No
University of Southern California
Master of Science in Business Analytics
CA $70,000 No
University of Texas – Austin
Master of Science in Business Analytics
TX $43,000 in-state
$48,000 out-of-state
No
University of Texas – Dallas
Master of Science in Business Analytics
TX $1,650 in-state
$2,437 out-of-state
Yes

What Is a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics?

A Master’s Degree in Business Analytics is a graduate degree in which you can hone your skills and learn new ones. While getting your master’s, you will learn how to analyze big data. Then, you will apply insights you’ve gained from the data to help companies overcome real-world obstacles.

Business analytics students learn a combination of data science, computer science, statistics, business intelligence, information technology, Python for big data, and more. Once you’ve completed completing your master’s in the field, you’ll be eligible to apply for esteemed leadership roles.

Why You Should Get a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics

If your goal is to advance your career, gain practical experience, or get a bigger paycheck, a master’s degree is the answer. Companies are more likely to hire prospective employees with more education.

Let’s look closer at the potential benefits of completing a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics.

  • Gain practical experience. The more professional experience you have, the higher your chances of landing a lucrative job. For this reason, most master’s programs will give you many opportunities for hands-on learning, such as research and internships.
  • Increase your income. A master’s degree will prove to potential employers that they can count on your skills. Consequently, you’re more likely to secure jobs that offer higher salaries.
  • Advance your career. A master’s will help you stand out from other candidates. As a result, you’ll have a higher chance of getting a mid-level or managerial position.

In Detail: The Best Master’s Degrees in Business Analytics

Even if you have work experience or are currently employed as a business analyst, getting your master’s degree is still a good decision. You can take your career to the next level. While getting your master’s degree, you’ll fine-tune your data skills while working with advanced information systems and analytics tools.

Below are the best Master’s Degrees in Business Analytics for 2021.

Arizona State University | Master of Science in Business Analytics

In this nine-month program, students will learn data modeling and mining, lead data-driven analysis, and create critical business advantages. This degree consists of 10 core courses.

US News & World Report has ranked this master’s program the tenth best in the US. What makes this program special is the broad range of learning opportunities that it provides. Students will have access to on-demand videos and event-based virtual learning programs like the Alumni Book Club.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Online learning options
  • Regular virtual information sessions
  • Career services

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • GRE test scores required for admission
  • Online class hours may be inconvenient
  • Large class sizes

Michigan State University | Master’s in Business Data Science & Analytics

This master’s program exposes students to real-world problem-solving and live data analytics. Students will learn more about descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analysis.

One of this program’s outstanding features is its paid internship program. Students will earn an average of $20 per hour while completing their internship. This makes Michigan State University a great option if you want to get experience in the field and get paid while doing it.

Master’s in Business Data Science & Analytics Pros

  • Affordable tuition
  • High job placement rate
  • Lots of course information available

Master’s in Business Data Science & Analytics Cons

  • No online learning
  • Standardized test scores required
  • Professional experience required

Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Master of Business Analytics

In this master’s program, students will focus on applying data science, optimization, machine learning, and problem-solving tools. MIT is one of the best schools in the country, and this program is no exception.

This 12-month program is ranked as the number one program in business analytics in the US by US News & Global Report. What’s more is that 100 percent of job-seeking graduates received full-time employment offers within six months.

Master of Business Analytics Pros

  • Top-rated institution
  • STEM-centered curriculum
  • High job placement rate

Master of Business Analytics Cons

  • No online learning available
  • Expensive tuition
  • Professional experience required

Kent State University | Master of Science in Business Analytics

Students in this Kent State program will master data mining, machine learning, databases, data processing, software tools, and programming. You will learn everything you need to know about business analytics.

This 12-month degree includes eight core courses. Kent State is also among the one percent of business schools that are accredited by the AACSB.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Affordable tuition
  • STEM-focused program
  • Online learning available

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Low job placement rate
  • Professional experience required

George Washington University | Master of Science in Business Analytics

This comprehensive program trains students in communication, consulting, and hands-on expertise in analytics tools, Python, and SQL.

You can complete this program in 24 months if you attend part-time or 16 months if you attend full-time. Students will also join an impressive alumni network, which even includes former US Secretary of State General Colin Powell.

Unlike many programs, George Washington University gives students three study schedules to choose from. These are meant to accommodate students who can’t commit to studying full time and those who want to finish their master’s quickly.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Plenty of information available on courses
  • Career services
  • Flexible study methods

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • No option for online learning
  • Summer study is required

Georgia Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Analytics

This Master of Science in Analytics program includes data science, computer science, statistics, and operations research. You can complete the on-campus program in a year and the online program within two years.

While studying, students will get access to an extraordinary amount of resources. Not only will students undergo interview skills training, but they will also benefit from communication training and free cloud computing resources.

Master of Science in Analytics Pros

  • Affordable tuition
  • Career services available
  • Academic and professional resources available

Master of Science in Analytics Cons

  • TOEFL score required is higher than average
  • On-campus students must pay a $2,000 program fee
  • Professional experience required

Duke University | Master of Quantitative Management

In this ten-month program, students will learn about data-based problem-solving, data analysis, and leadership skills. Students can choose to specialize in either marketing, forensics, strategy, or finance.

In contrast to many programs, Duke students are given extensive career assistance. This includes career coaching, career webinars, resume building, and job search resources.

Master’s in Quantitative Management Pros

  • Ample information available on the program
  • Outstanding career services
  • Program is focused on STEM

Master’s in Quantitative Management Cons

  • Expensive tuition
  • No online learning option
  • Professional experience required

Columbia University | Master of Science in Business Analytics

In this business analytics master’s degree, students will hone their skills in modeling techniques, data science tools, and big data. Students can choose from four focus areas in this one-year program.

What sets this program apart is its capstone project. Starting in their first semester, students will work on a consulting project using real data provided by a company. This is a great way to hone your skills and get experience in the field.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Real-world capstone project
  • Career services
  • Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Expensive tuition
  • Course content is limited

Carnegie Mellon University | Master of Science in Business Analytics

This online Master’s Degree in Business Analytics covers software engineering, machine learning, corporate communication, and many more valuable technical skills. Most of the 18-month program takes place online, but students are required to attend three on-campus events.

This school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB), which is the gold standard for business schools worldwide. One unique benefit of this program is its virtual sample courses. You can register for these virtually and choose which course you want to participate in.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Hybrid learning options
  • Vast amount of information covered
  • Career services

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Expensive tuition
  • Professional experience required
  • Minimum TOEFL score required

New York University | Master of Science in Business Analytics

Students in this program will gain in-depth knowledge of professional data science tools, programming languages, and data analysis. Although this 12-month master’s program includes online learning, you will have to attend some classes in person.

The amount of support available to students in this program makes it stand out. This includes on-campus news, alumni events, discounted courses, and mentoring.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Flexible payment options
  • Ample academic and professional resources

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Expensive tuition
  • No distance learning available
  • Upfront deposit of $7,200 required

University of Texas at Dallas | Master of Science in Business Analytics

This Master’s of Science in Business Analytics degree covers data patterns, machine learning, data science, and risk management. Students can choose whether they want to study on a flex schedule, as part of a cohort, or fully online.

One interesting aspect of this program is that it includes school activities, community groups, and competitions. The goal is to help keep students motivated while also learning from their peers.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Affordable tuition
  • Online learning option
  • STEM-focused curriculum

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • No career services
  • Low job placement rate
  • Limited course details available online

University of Texas at Austin | Master of Science in Business Analytics

This 10-month master’s program in business analytics covers statistical analysis, data mining, programming languages, and machine learning. The program is broken into three sections: the foundations of data, applications, and hands-on demonstrations. Students will be guided by industry professionals.

The application process differs from many other universities. Students can apply for more than one master’s program at the same time while only paying one application fee.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Affordable tuition
  • Class demographics available
  • STEM-focused program

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • GMAT scores required
  • No online learning
  • Limited course information available online

University of Southern California | Master of Science in Business Analytics

As part of this on-campus master’s degree, students will learn to hone their skills in programming, optimization, statistics, and machine learning. This program takes 18 months to complete and 10 core courses. US News & World Report has ranked this program the second-best in the US.

To get into this school, prospective students don’t need to write an essay or take a standardized test. However, applicants will need to complete a statistics test to prove their proficiency.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Accredited school
  • Career services
  • Extensive curriculum content

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Expensive tuition
  • No online learning
  • Alumni relations considered in application process

University of Notre Dame | Master of Science in Business Analytics

In this master’s degree, students will learn how to build data analysis models, create communication strategies, and use the latest data analysis technology. This program takes 10 months to complete with 31 credit hours.

The school also provides ways for prospective students to contact alumni if they have questions about the program. This gives students a more accurate idea of what to expect before they apply for this degree.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Career services
  • Class demographics available
  • STEM-focused program

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Non-refundable $1,000 program fee
  • No online learning
  • Prerequisite courses required

University of Minnesota | Master of Science in Business Analytics

This one-year Master of Science in Business Analytics program covers business management basics, technical skills, and data analysis.

This program is specifically designed to accommodate international students. Eighty-seven percent of students who study business analytics at the school come from abroad, so the university has the infrastructure in place to make sure those students succeed.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • High job placement rate
  • Class demographics readily available
  • STEM-focused program

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Expensive out-of-state tuition
  • No online learning
  • High on-campus and application fees

University of Chicago | MBA in Business Analytics Concentration

In this business analytics program, students will get a better understanding of big data, statistics, marketing operations, and information technology.

The degree includes 20 core courses. Students can choose whether they want to study full-time for 21 months or part-time for up to three years. According to US News & World Report, this is the third-best business analytics program in the country.

This program is known for being thorough. It takes at least a few months longer to complete than other business analytics programs.

MBA in Business Analytics Concentration Pros

  • Flexible study schedule
  • Class demographics available
  • Extensive program

MBA in Business Analytics Concentration Cons

  • Expensive tuition
  • No online learning
  • Limited career services

UCLA Anderson School of Management | Master of Science in Business Analytics

Over the course of this 15-month program, students will learn the advanced methods for data mining, modeling, and analysis.

The curriculum includes optional summer internships and a capstone project that will give students hands-on experience. This is a good choice if you want to advance your position in the field.

Master of Science in Business Analytics Pros

  • Accredited school
  • Class demographics available
  • STEM-focused program

Master of Science in Business Analytics Cons

  • Expensive tuition
  • No online learning
  • Low job placement rate

UC Davis, Graduate School of Management | Master of Science in Business Analytics

This master’s program lasts a year and covers business, computing data, and data analytics. The program has four areas of focus, all of which include many hands-on projects.

UC Davis is known for its high-quality faculty. This program also gives students the chance to apply for exchange opportunities in countries such as the United Kingdom, Brazil, France, and Mexico.

Master of Science in Business Analytics and Information Management Pros

  • Affordable tuition
  • Class demographics readily available
  • STEM-centered curriculum

Master of Science in Business Analytics and Information Management Cons

  • Professional experience required
  • No online learning
  • Low job placement

Purdue University | Master of Science in Business Analytics and Information Management

While attending this master’s program, students learn Python, SQL, and detailed data-driven solutions. These can help them solve real-world challenges.

It’s important to note that the entry requirements consist of more steps than most programs. For example, as part of the application process, students must compile a five-minute video essay outlining their values. This means that only the best applicants are admitted.

Master of Science in Business Analytics and Information Management Pros

  • Affordable tuition
  • No professional experience required
  • STEM-focused program

Master of Science in Business Analytics and Information Management Cons

  • Limited course details available
  • No online learning
  • Low job placement rate

North Carolina State University | Master of Science in Analytics

In this 10-month Master of Science in Analytics program, you will hone your data mining, machine learning, fraud detection, and big data skills.

This university is accredited by SACSCOC, which means you can be confident in the quality of education. The average base salary of North Carolina State University’s graduates is a unique factor. It is significantly higher than that of graduates from similar programs at other schools.

Master of Science in Analytics Pros

  • High job placement rate
  • Accredited school
  • Students learn using real-time data and business challenges

Master of Science in Analytics Cons

  • Expensive out-of-state tuition
  • Sign-up is once per year
  • Limited course information available online
Online vs In-Person Master’s Degrees in Business Analytics

Online vs In-Person Master’s Degrees in Business Analytics

Although most of the master’s programs we’ve discussed offer in-person learning, online learning is also a valid choice. There are many reasons why online studying could work for you.

Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of online and in-person learning.

Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Business Analytics

  • Self-paced classes. Since online classes have fewer students, you can learn as quickly or slowly as you want. If you’re a fast learner, you may be able to shave several months off of your program.
  • Less travel time. Living far from campus is no problem if you’re studying online. You won’t have to worry about commuting or running late for class.
  • Solo work. If you’d rather work independently, online degrees offer you the opportunity to do so.

Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Business Analytics

  • Access to hands-on learning. Studying in person means you’ll have the opportunity to engage in more hands-on work, which is essential if you want to land a lucrative higher-level position after graduating.
  • Strict curriculum. If you choose to study in person, your school will provide you with a set syllabus to make sure you’re completing your work on time.
  • Activities and social groups. If you want to participate in on-campus social activities and interact with like-minded students, studying on campus is definitely the way to go.

How to Pick the Best Business Analytics Master’s Degree for You

Aside from tuition fees and entry requirements, there’s a lot you have to take into consideration before choosing a master’s degree. The master’s programs we’ve reviewed above are a good start if you want to get into a senior role in business analytics. However, not all of the programs might work for you.

Below are the top factors you should think about before picking your business analytics program.

Study Options

It’s important to know whether your master’s program is full-time or part-time, or on-campus or online. Some programs may also use a hybrid of online and offline teaching. If finishing your degree quickly is important to you, you should attend a full-time program.

Career Advancement

If you don’t already have a solid career plan, you should apply to a university that offers reliable career services. This resource will be a huge benefit as you search for a job after graduation.

Curriculum

Each business analytics master’s program will follow a different curriculum. Some will require that you complete a capstone project, and others will involve less hands-on work. You should choose a program based on your preferences.

How Much Can You Earn With a Business Analytics Master’s Degree?

With a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics, you can earn much more than with a bachelor’s. The amount you earn as a business analyst will depend on a few elements. These include your professional experience, location, and ability to demonstrate your understanding of big data.

Below are the highest-earning jobs in business analytics.

The Top Business Analytics Master Degree Careers

Profession Average Salary
Data Architect $146,350
Big Data Engineer $143,270
Data Warehouse Manager $139,430
Database Manager $139,590
Data Scientist $126,830
Data Modeler $98,240
Business Intelligence Analyst $87,660
Data Analyst $86,200
Database Developer $81,890
Database Administrator $82,300

Why You Should Study Business Analytics in 2021

You should study business analytics in 2021 if you are interested in the field and ready to learn more. If you’re a business professional who loves data-driven problem solving, analyzing data, and communication, you should get your Master’s Degree in Business Analytics.

Getting this degree will make it possible for you to secure more senior positions and a higher salary. The whole process will take you less than two years, and your Master’s in Business Analytics will be an investment you won’t regret.

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