What Is a Master's in Business Analytics?

The Master’s in Business Analytics degree program is designed to meet the increasing demand for professionals focused on analytics needed to excel in the marketplace, providing graduates with skills and knowledge of how to analyze and use the vast amounts of data available to businesses.

This article will explain what a Master’s in Business Analytics is and why it matters.

Understanding the Master’s in Business Analytics Degree

The Master’s in Business Analytics degree includes concepts and techniques from business, information systems, and advanced data analytics. Professionals in business analytics require a unique blend of skills, including business acumen, understanding of information technologies and systems, and proficiency in statistical and quantitative techniques.

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 to one day contribute to initiatives that support educational opportunities for young women in rural areas like where I come from.

– Jolly Shippy, MS in Business Analytics student, Bellevue University

What You’ll Learn in a Master’s in Business Analytics Program: Core Curriculum

A Master’s in Business Analytics equips you with the tools and knowledge to turn complex data into strategic business insights. The business analytics curriculum blends technical training with business acumen, preparing you to solve real-world, data-driven challenges across industries.

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.

This hands-on, interdisciplinary data analytics curriculum prepares you to lead in the growing field of business analytics.

Why Is This Degree Important? Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Business Analytics

In today’s data-driven world, a Master’s in Business Analytics is more than a degree—it’s a competitive advantage. Organizations across every industry rely on data to guide decisions, improve performance, and gain market insights. This degree prepares you with in-demand skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and business strategy, offering the opportunity to become a valuable asset in roles that bridge the gap between data and decision-making.

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

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

Career Paths with a Master’s in Business Analytics

A Master’s in Business Analytics opens up a wide range of high-impact, data-driven careers across industries. This degree is ideal for students and professionals with backgrounds in business, finance, and marketing, IT, or mathematics who are looking to expand their analytical skills and pursue industry-recognized certifications.

Graduates are equipped to transform data into actionable insights, driving smarter decisions in fast-paced business environments. Potential career paths include:

• Lead Business Analyst – Drives strategic initiatives using advanced data analysis and stakeholder collaboration.

• Business Analytics Consultant – Advises companies on data strategy, tools, and best practices to optimize performance.

• Business Analytics Project Manager – Oversees analytics initiatives, ensuring timely and effective project delivery.

• Data Scientist – Builds predictive models and uses machine learning to uncover trends and forecast outcomes.

• Business Intelligence Engineer – Designs and manages systems that deliver real-time, actionable business insights.

• Financial Analyst – Evaluates financial data to guide investment and budgeting decisions.

• Market Research Analyst – Interprets consumer and market data to shape marketing and product strategies.

• Operations Research Analyst – Applies statistical techniques to solve complex operational problems and improve efficiency.

These roles offer dynamic opportunities to lead in the evolving world of business analytics.

Your Questions, Answered By The Experts

Q: How long does it take to earn a master’s in business analytics degree?
A: Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term, if transfer credits can be applied, and how many credits are required (part-time students will take longer). Bellevue’s MS in Business Analytics program requires 36 graduate credits. At a pace of 2 courses per term, it is possible to finish in 6 terms (3 terms per academic year), or about 2 years if you are continuously enrolled and progress according to the degree plan.

Q: What are the requirements to enroll in a master’s in business analytics program?
A: Depending on the school, you may need to submit scores from the GRE or GMAT exam. (Bellevue University does not require test scores.) You will typically be required to 1 ) Apply, 2) submit all official transcripts from previous accredited colleges, and 3) submit grades from your most recent 60 credit hours from a conferred bachelor’s degree or from a completed master’s degree. 4) Some programs may require a resume, letter of recommendation, or other documentation.

See Bellevue University’s graduate admission requirements.

Q: Are there any additional certifications that complement a master’s in business analytics?
A: Students will be well prepared to pursue various industry certifications in analytics, such as SAS Base Programming Specialist and SAS Machine Learning, or in data mining. You may also consider pursuing one of several Project Management certifications.

Q: Can I earn a master’s in business analytics online?
A: Yes, you can earn a master’s in business analytics online. Bellevue University’s MS in Business Analytics is offered 100% online. Find out how online learning works.

Are there scholarships available for master’s in business analytics graduate students?
A: Yes. Graduate students are eligible for various scholarships and federal student aid.

Apply for scholarships here.

Explore a Master’s in Business Analytics at Bellevue University

If you have an undergraduate degree and are ready to advance in business and analytics, this program is for you. Whether you're new to the field, looking to upskill, or aiming to lead data-driven initiatives in your organization, a Master’s in Business Analytics can help you get there. It’s ideal for business managers, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders who want to turn data into action. Gain the skills to lead with confidence—design, implement, and manage impactful analytics projects. Take the next step toward transforming your organization and the future with data.

Learn more about the Master’s in Business Analytics today.

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