Is a master's in business analytics worth it?

The value of a business analytics master's degree depends on your career goals and desired industry. The BLS projects strong job growth for business analysts from 2023 to 2033, although growth rates vary based on a professional's specialty. For instance, the BLS projects jobs for budget analysts will grow by 4% during this period, while positions for operations research analysts will grow by 23%. This job outlook reflects the demand for data-driven and decision-making professionals in business.

What’s the difference between an MS and an MA in business analytics?

The main difference between an MS and an MA in business analytics is each degree type's academic focus. An MS program emphasizes practical skills, advanced analytics tools, data analysis, and statistical methods. In contrast, an MA program focuses on theory, research, and a broader understanding of business analytics, including digital marketing and media production.

How long does it take to get an online master’s degree in business analytics?

An online master's degree in business analytics typically takes 18 to 30 months to complete, depending on the program, credit requirements, and whether you study full time or part time. Many programs offer flexible schedules and accelerated options though. Review your chosen program's curriculum and course load to determine the duration.

What is the difference between a master’s in business analytics vs. a master’s in marketing?

The key difference is scope: A master's in business analytics program prepares individuals to develop broad analytical skills, while a master's in marketing focuses on marketing-specific skills. In a master's in business analytics program, students typically learn to use analytical tools — such as SQL, Excel, Power BI, and SPSS — to interpret data, optimize business processes, and make data-driven decisions. A master's in marketing focuses on market research, consumer behavior, branding, and digital marketing to develop and implement marketing strategies.

Online master's in business analytics

Develop skills in data analysis and pursue profitable careers across industries with an online master's in business analytics.

Exlpore online master's in business analytics programs

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Why earn a master’s in business analytics online?

Master key data analytics tools

Gain proficiency in SQL, Power BI, and Tableau to interpret data for actionable insights.

Expand your job opportunities

Unlock new career paths by specializing in high-demand fields.

Increase your earnings potential

Boost your salary by earning up to six figures as a data analyst.

As companies and public agencies seek to make data-informed decisions to drive growth and efficiency, the demand for business analytics professionals continues to rise.

An online master's in business analytics program can equip you with the skills to transform data into strategic insights that drive business success.

Find out if a master's in business analytics could be the next step to unlocking new career opportunities.

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Online master's in business analytics degree overview

Earning a master's degree in business analytics may benefit professionals interested in pursuing strategic roles in data-driven environments.

In an online master's in business analytics program, you can learn how to analyze data by using statistical and qualitative methods, predictive modeling, and machine learning to forecast trends and business strategies.

What jobs can you get with an online master's in business analytics?

The demand for business analytics professionals spans industries like finance, healthcare, technology, commerce, communications, and travel.

Earning an online master's in business analytics degree can help pave the way for data-driven careers, such as:

Business intelligence analyst: Uses analytical tools to gather and analyze data for the purposes of identifying trends, patterns, and insights to bolster business strategies. These professionals also craft reports for teams, managers, and stakeholders.
Financial analyst: Evaluates financial data and trends, assesses company values and management, recommends investments, and prepares reports.
Marketing analyst: Studies consumer behavior and market conditions to forecast trends, measure marketing effectiveness, and provide insights for optimizing products, pricing, and offerings.
Operations research analyst: Identifies problems, gathers and analyzes data, develops quantitative models, and presents findings and recommendations to improve business decisions.

Salary expectations and career outlooks for master's in business analytics

Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), graduates with a master's in business analytics can likely expect competitive salaries and strong job growth from 2023 to 2033:

Budget analyst	Median annual salary (2023): $84,940	Projected job growth (2023–33): 4%
Computer systems analyst	Median annual salary (2023): $103,800	Projected job growth (2023–33): 11%
Financial analyst	Median annual salary (2023): $99,890	Projected job growth (2023–33): 9%
Management analyst	Median annual salary (2023): $99,410	Projected job growth (2023–33): 11%
Market research analyst	Median annual salary (2023): $74,680	Projected job growth (2023–33): 8%
Operations research analyst	Median annual salary (2023): $83,640	Projected job growth (2023–33): 23%

Business Analytics curriculum

Business analytics master's courses can help you develop research, analysis, reporting, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Core courses include:

Data mining
Data visualization
SQL and Python fundamentals
Statistics

Concentrations or elective courses could lead to niche job opportunities depending on the type of program. Specializations may include:

Financial analytics
Marketing analytics
Supply chain analytics
Healthcare analytics

Types of master's in business analytics

Students may encounter master's in business analytics programs under different names, such as a master of science (MS) or a master of arts (MA). While both programs focus on business analytics, their curricula can differ.

An MA typically emphasizes arts, humanities, and social sciences, while an MS offers a more technical and quantitative approach to the subject.

How much does an online master's in business analytics cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the median annual tuition for an online master's in business analytics is $8,088.

The total cost depends on the school's status (public or private), your residency status (in-state or out-of-state), the program delivery format (online, hybrid, or in-person), and other expenses not covered by tuition.

Admissions requirements for a master's in business analytics online program

Admissions requirements may differ by school, but many include:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Official transcripts
Résumé or CV
Personal statement
Letters of recommendation
Standardized test results, such as the TOEFL or GMAT (waivers may be available)

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How to apply

Once you've decided to earn your online master's in business analytics, request more information to connect with an admissions advisor.

The advisor will discuss the program, admissions requirements, and your goals before you start your application.

Exlpore online master's in business analytics programs

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