Is a Master's in Business Analytics Worth It?

Suppose you’re considering a career in data analytics. In that case, the short answer is yes—a Master’s in Business Analytics is worth it for professionals seeking to advance their careers. It can provide in-demand skills, the ability to pursue industry-relevant certifications, and access to high-growth, high-paying roles across multiple industries.

We’ll examine the benefits and costs to assess its return on investment. But first, you must understand what a master’s degree in business analytics entails to know if it is a good investment for you.

What Is a Master’s in Business Analytics?

The Master’s in Business Analytics degree includes concepts and techniques from business, information systems, and advanced data analytics. As the business world becomes more data-driven, pursuing a master's degree can open doors to exciting careers in business analytics. This advanced degree provides a powerful combination of technical expertise, statistical modeling, data management, and business acumen—skills in high demand in today’s competitive job market.

Key Benefits of Getting a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics

A Master’s in Business Analytics (MSBA) is more than a degree—it’s a competitive advantage. Skilled professionals who work with business analytics make sense of the data available to businesses and turn it into profitable insights.

Organizations across every industry rely on data to guide decisions, improve performance, and understand markets. This degree equips you with essential skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and strategic thinking—making you a valuable asset in roles that bridge the gap between raw data and business outcomes.

Beyond technical expertise, you’ll develop a strategic mindset, learning to translate complex data into clear, actionable steps. Graduates are prepared to lead data initiatives, embrace emerging technologies, and drive innovation in dynamic business environments.

Earning this degree can lead to accelerated career growth, higher earning potential, and access to a wide range of opportunities in consulting, finance, operations, marketing, IT, analytics, and more.

Investing in a master’s in business analytics empowers graduates to make a significant impact in their fields.

MSBA Program Empowers Student to Break Barriers, Realize Dreams

Jolly Shippy, an international student in the Master of Science in Business Analytics at Bellevue University (2024-2025), wrote to us to share the profound impact of this opportunity on her life.

“I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible opportunity to pursue my Master’s degree in Business Analytics as an international student here in the United States. Coming from a small town in Bihar, India, it was always a dream—a seemingly distant one at times—to study abroad. For someone like me, a first-generation student studying in America, this journey has been nothing short of transformational.”

“My ‘why’ is deeply rooted in my desire to break barriers—not just for myself, but for others who dream of reaching new heights despite humble beginnings.”

Bellevue University has given me more than just an education—it has offered me a platform to grow, connect, and challenge myself in ways I never imagined possible. The support, guidance, and encouragement I’ve received have been instrumental in helping me navigate this journey, making this dream achievable.

– Jolly Shippy, MS in Business Analytics student

“As for my dreams and aspirations, I envision a career where I can use data and analytics to help businesses make smarter, more inclusive decisions. I aim to work with organizations that value impact and one day contribute to initiatives that support educational opportunities for young women in rural areas like where I come from.”

“Thank you, Bellevue University, for making dreams like mine a reality. Your commitment to nurturing students from all walks of life has left an indelible impact on my life and my family. I look forward to applying all I have learned here to create a positive impact wherever my journey takes me next.”

Skills Gained in a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics

In-depth analysis of information system issues will shape your skills in advanced technical, quantitative, and qualitative techniques in the master’s in analytics curriculum. Coursework includes:

• Accounting
• Marketing
• IT Infrastructure
• Advanced Data Mining Applications
• Enterprise Data and Information Management

Core skills you’ll gain include:

• Base SAS Programming – Write and manage programs for data analysis, reporting, and automation.
• Data Management – Create, reshape, and document data sets to support analytical tasks.
• Information Systems – Design, implement, and manage enterprise-level data repositories.
• Advanced Analytics – Apply predictive modeling, pattern recognition, and prescriptive analytics.
• Data Mining & Text Mining – Discover patterns and insights from structured and unstructured data.
• Forecasting & Decision-Making – Use analytics tools to drive business decisions and predict outcomes.
  Business Strategy Integration – Apply analytics in areas such as accounting, marketing, finance, and IT.
• Emerging Technologies – Understand and manage the impact of new tech on data-intensive business problems.

By honing these skills, business analytics graduates are prepared to influence business outcomes and drive organizational success.

Financial Considerations for a Master’s Degree in Business Analytics

When considering whether an advanced degree like the master’s in business analytics is worth it, consider factors like time, cost, prerequisites, education requirements, and personal commitment.

Weigh these costs against the benefit of the earning potential. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook lists current median annual salaries for business analysts ranging from $76,950 to $101,910, depending on the specific role, for job titles such as:

• Marketing Analysts
• Operations Research Analysts
• Business and Financial Management Analysts

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, business analyst jobs in technology, operations, marketing, and finance are projected to grow faster than the national average from 2023 to 2033.

However, earning potential with a master’s in business analytics varies depending on factors such as industry, location, experience, and specific job role.

Cost

Costs vary greatly between schools and are usually measured by cost per credit. It’s important to do some research to guide your decision. Here are some of the facts:

• Cost per credit and other fees are found on the Bellevue University Tuition and Fees page.
• Graduate students are eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
• Military education funding and corporate tuition assistance are other popular ways to fund graduate courses.
• You may be able to transfer in up to 6 graduate credit hours from an accredited university. Contact us to learn more about how to have your credits evaluated.

Education Requirements

Beyond the financial costs, educational requirements take your time, effort, and personal commitment. Here’s what you can expect:

Time commitment: Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term and how many are required (part-time students will take longer). A master’s degree in business analytics, such as Bellevue University’s MSBA program, typically requires 36 graduate credit hours. If taken full-time, the program can be completed in 6 terms, when there are three terms per academic year, and is offered both on-campus and 100% online.

The Bottom Line: Is a Master’s in Business Analytics Right For You?

If you're aiming to advance into mid- to senior-level roles in the fast-growing field of business analytics, this degree is a strong fit. It's ideal for professionals interested in business, information systems, or data-driven decision-making—and for those looking to gain hands-on experience with industry tools and pursue certifications that employers value.

A Master’s in Business Analytics offers a unique blend of technical training and strategic thinking. Whether you want to pivot into a new field, enhance your current role, or lead analytics initiatives in your organization, this degree provides the skills, credibility, and career flexibility to help you reach your goals.

Start your Master’s Degree in Business Analytics at Bellevue University today.

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