The world is becoming increasingly data-driven, and businesses rely heavily on data analytics to make informed decisions.

However, there is a shortage of qualified data analysts and business analysts. This is where the MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) degree from a top U.S. university can be handy.

An MSBA degree from a top US university will give you the skills and knowledge you need to become a highly sought-after data analyst or business analyst.

In this blog, we are going to talk about MS in Business Analytics in the USA, We will tell you about the requirements, eligibility criteria, tuition fees and cost of attendance, top universities, admission requirements, career prospects, and scholarships.

At the end, we will also give you some helpful tips for applying to MSBA programs in the USA.

Let’s begin!

What is an MS in Business Analytics (MSBA)?

A Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is an interdisciplinary degree that combines business, statistics, and computer science to teach students how to use data to solve real-world business problems.

In this program, you will typically learn topics such as data mining, machine learning, statistical modeling, data visualization, and business intelligence.

It will give you the skills you need to work with large amounts of data and provide valuable insights to organizations.

In simple terms, it’s all about using data to solve problems and improve the way companies operate.

MSBA graduates are always high in demand by employers in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, consulting, and healthcare.

You can work as a data analyst, business analyst, machine learning engineer, operations research analyst, market research analyst, financial analyst, risk analyst, and management consultant.

Here are some of the key skills that MSBA graduates develop:

Ability to collect, clean, and analyze large datasets
Expertise in using statistical and machine-learning tools
Strong data visualization skills
Ability to communicate complex data findings to non-technical audiences
Ability to use data to solve real-world business problems

MS in Business Analytics in the USA is a 1-2 year graduate degree program in the USA. A GPA of 3.0 to 3.6 on a 4.0 scale (83-89%) is required to be admitted to the Master of Science in Business Analytics program in the USA.

If you are interested in a career in data analytics or business analytics, an MSBA degree is a great way to prepare yourself for success.

Why study MS in Business Analytics in the USA?

There are many reasons why you should consider studying MSBA in the USA. Here are a few of the most compelling reasons:

Quality education: The USA is renowned for its high-quality education system, with some of the best universities in the world, and its MSBA programs are consistently ranked among the best in the world.
Strong focus on practical applications: US MSBA programs typically place a strong emphasis on practical applications. This means that you will learn how to use the skills and knowledge you gain in the classroom to solve real-world business problems.
Opportunities for jobs and placements: Studying in the USA will open a window of opportunities for internships and placements with top companies like American Express. This gives you the chance to gain valuable experience and network with potential employers.
Diverse student body and international exposure: MSBA programs attract students from all over the world. This creates a diverse and vibrant learning environment where you can learn from the students from different cultures.
Post-study work opportunities: As an MSBA graduate, you are eligible for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows you to work in the USA for up to 36 months after graduation. This allows you to gain valuable work experience and build your career in the USA.
Flexibility and choice: With a wide range of universities and programs to choose from, you can find an MSBA program that aligns with your career goals.
Immigration opportunities: The USA has several immigration programs that can make it easier for you to stay in the USA and work after your MSBA program.

For example, the H-1B visa program allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.

Financial aid opportunities: There are several scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to international students studying MSBA in the USA. This can help to make the cost of education more affordable.

Seeking an MSBA in the United States offers the opportunity to access top-tier education, immerse yourself in a rich cultural environment, access outstanding career prospects, and position yourself as a leader in the data analytics domain. It’s a choice that has the potential to positively mold your future.

MS in Business Analytics in USA Program Highlights

Here is an overview of the MSBA program:

Top MS in Business Analytics in USA universities

Here is the list of universities offering MS in business analytics in the USA:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT):

‍The MIT curriculum is designed to prepare you for the challenges you have to face when you enter as a business leader in today’s rapidly changing environment.

It will provide you with all the skills and knowledge you require to lead innovative thinking in companies today.

Master of Science in Business Analytics at this university is classified as a STEM-designated program, allowing you to extend your training in the U.S. by 24 months after your graduation.

This university provides a broad range of career development services to help you achieve your career goals in business analytics.

The application deadline to apply to this university is:

Application deadline: January 2024

Decision released: March 4, 2024

Note: This deadline is for both application materials and recommendation letters.

Here is the fee structure for the academic year 2023-2024:

The cost of health insurance (unless waived) is $3,237 ($1,349 fall/ $1,888 spring)

MIT is one of the top private universities in Cambridge, United States. Here are the rankings and ratings:

‍#1 in QS World Rankings 2024, #2 in QS WUR Ranking by subject, #32 in QS Sustainability Ranking, and #1 in Graduate Employability Ranking.

Stanford University

It is one of the top universities in the USA to provide an MS in Business Analytics program. Its curriculum is designed to prepare you to analyze the data to arrive at solutions that can change a business strategy.

It has also created unique learning opportunities, internships with high-profile companies, data storytelling and workshops, and seminars with industry leaders to ensure that you are ready to make an instant impact on the companies you join.

Program fees for the MSBA program are currently $77,188.28 in total. In addition to this, you also have to pay mandatory campus-based fees.

The cost of health insurance can be waived if you provide satisfactory information about private, adequate health insurance that meets the university’s criteria.

Here are the rankings and ratings for this university:

#29 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #15 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #49 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #3 in the QS Graduate Employability Ranking.

University of Texas at Austin:

Here you will learn to deal with vast amounts of data and use it to help businesses make informed decisions.

You can do this degree in two ways: online or on campus.

The MSBA program, which runs for 10 months starting in the summer and offers full-time study, is both STEM-eligible and holds a prominent position in national rankings.

You have the flexibility to tailor your coursework by selecting electives in either financial analytics or supply chain and marketing analytics.

Application Deadlines:

The applications for MSBA 2025 are open! You can apply for the 2025 intake on the below deadlines:

Round 2 deadline: January 10, 2024
Round 3 deadline: March 6, 2024
Round 4 deadline: May 1, 2024

This is the final deadline for all international students. Be adhere to that.

Submit your application for this university with the following documents:

All sections within the online application are filled in entirety.
Upload your official transcripts in PDF format.
GRE or GMAT scores (optional)
TOEFL or IELTS score for all international students
Personal essays
Two letters of recommendation
Resume
Online video Assessment.

Here are the program fees for this university for International students:

Pre-enrollment tuition fee: $2000
Summer costs: $8,000
Fall costs: $21,500
Spring costs: $21,500

Total: $53,000

Note: “A non-refundable pre-enrollment tuition fee of $2000 is required once you accept the offer letter for admission sent by the university to secure your seat in the program”

The above costs do not cover:

Books, supplies, living expenses, software
Laptops
Optional fees such as parking and sporting event tickets

The University of Texas is one of the top public universities in the USA. Here are the rankings and ratings:

#58 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #23 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #=98 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #47 in the QS Graduate Employability Ranking.

University of California, San Diego:

This university offers a full-time STEM-designated MSBA program. It features an AI Assistant curriculum that incorporates Large Language Models (LLM) in every part of the business analytics process from problem definition to data cleaning, coding, analysis, and presentation.

It is one of the biggest advantages of this university, as it is preparing you for the future where AI is an integral part of a business data scientist’s responsibilities.

Summer 2024 application deadlines

Round 1: October 1, 2023
Round 2: November 15, 2023
Round 3: January 15, 2024
Round 4 (Fellowship and international deadline): March 15, 2023
Round 5 (Domestic Deadline): April 15, 2024

The program start date is August 2024, admitted students who enroll in the program are required to arrive on campus for the orientation at the end of July 2024 on time.

Submit your application for this university with the following documents:

Application form
Transcripts in PDF or Word document
Updated resume or CV
Quantitative background
Recommendations
Statement of purpose
GMAT or GRE scores
TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores (for international applicants only)
Application fee for $155.

The tuition fees for winter and spring 2024 are $2,094.58 per unit.

Other costs:

International student visa fee of $100 during your admitted term. This is a one-time visa administration fee that you have to pay at the time of your enrollment.
UCGPC Systemwide Fee: ($7.00 annually, effective Fall 2023) fee assessed $3.00 Fall quarter, $2.00 Winter quarter, $2.00 Spring quarter.

The University of California is one of the top public universities in San Diego, USA. Here are the rankings and ratings:

#62 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #31 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #124 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #121-130 in the QS Graduate Employability Ranking.

Purdue University:

The Purdue MSBA program is particularly well-known for its focus on big data and cloud computing.

The program’s faculty are experts in these fields, and students can access cutting-edge technology and resources. This gives students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the most demanding business analytics roles.

This university offers the MSBA program in two ways: Online and on-campus

The online Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program provides you with the expertise to efficiently utilize cutting-edge information technologies and analytical methods while effectively professionally conveying your findings.

The program’s intensive curriculum, comprising 30 credit hours, is entirely delivered online and is crafted to enhance your proficiency in analytics and your ability to apply these skills, with a particular focus on the most current big data technologies.

Application deadlines

Spring start: December 1
Fall start: August 1

Requirements

Conferred bachelor’s degree (4-year equivalent)
Minimum 3.00 GPA
500 GMAT/GRE score required (waivers are also available)
24 months of relevant work experience
2 letters of recommendation
Resume with education, work experience, and training
Official transcripts for every higher education institution attended
Academic statement of purpose
Personal history essay
Kira self-recorded video (post-application submission)

The program start date is fall-August.

MS in Business Analytics fees is $1,118.80 per credit hour and the full tuition fee is $33,564.

Purdue University is one of the top public universities in West Lafayette, United States. Here are the rankings and ratings:

#99 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #54 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #151-160 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #36 in the QS Graduate Employability Ranking.

Michigan State University:

Its program focuses on business strategy, data tools, management, and experiential project consulting. After graduating from this university you can find jobs as a data analyst, business intelligence developer, scientist, analytics consultant, and more in a wide range of industries.

The tuition fee of this university is $39,000 for international students. But the university requires you to state $70,759 to cover your tuition fees, insurance, books, and any unforeseen expenses to ensure proper financial coverage and processing of the I-20 form.

Other expected costs:

Living expenses: $26,274
Student health insurance and expenses: $2,284
Books and software: $2,643
Other expenses: TBD

Michigan State University is one of the top public universities in East Lansing, United States. Here are the rankings and ratings:

#136 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #151-200 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #134 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #55 in the US UNI (universities).

University of Notre Dame:

‍By earning an M.S. in Business Analytics (MSBA) from Notre Dame, you’ll become a bridge between data experts and business decision-makers. This program is designed for recent graduates and professionals with less than two years of work experience, and it’s recognized for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Admission intakes:

Round 2: January 10 2024 and you can expect a decision by March 15, 2024.
Round 3: March 19, 2024, and you can expect a decision by May 10, 2024.

The tuition fee for the 2023-2024 MS in Business Analytics is $60,734.

The University of Notre Dame is one of the top private universities in Notre Dame, United States. Here are the rankings and ratings:

#=304 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #251-300 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #501-550 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #191-200 in the Graduate Employability Ranking.

Arizona State University:

‍ With the university’s forward-thinking and innovative program that looks at where businesses and the world are going, you’ll become a leader who understands the whole picture and is ready for change.

You can choose to specialise in areas like cloud computing, tech consulting, fintech, marketing analytics, or supply chain analytics. This way, you’ll be well-prepared to start your career in the industry you’re most interested in.

This university offers five distinct tracks for this degree:

MS in Business Analytics (Big Data):

In this course, you will learn how to manage a big data track, speak the language of data, and create a critical business advantage. It is a 9-month program for 30 credit hours.

The cost of this program is as follows:

MS in Business Analytics (Cloud Computing and Tech Consulting):

You will see this program in your third semester, this program will prepare you for an exciting and emerging field. You will also get to see how the big data and the cloud are connected and are at the forefront of business and technology.

It is a 16-month program with 43 credit hours and you will also get various internship opportunities.

The cost of this program is as follows:

MS in Business Analytics (Fintech):

Modern technology is quickly changing how money-related stuff works. Things like how you pay for things, manage your money, or even get loans are all being made better with new tech and data.

With this program, you’ll get good at handling big data. You’ll also figure out how to use it to make money-related things better in banks and other places.

It is a 16-month program with 43 credit hours and excellent career outcomes.

The cost of this program is as follows:

MS in Business Analytics (Marketing Analytics):

‍Boost your data skills by using them in the growing field of marketing analytics. This part of the MS-BA program helps you understand how to use data for making smart choices in marketing.

You’ll learn how to analyze data to see how well marketing campaigns are working and how to manage brands effectively.

To finish the marketing analytics part, you’ll need to take an extra semester in the MS-BA program.

You’ll have two core courses just for this, plus two other classes you can choose. There’s also a chance for a summer internship to get some practical experience for your future job.

It is a 16-month program with 43 credit hours and in-demand careers.

The cost of this program is as follows:

MS in Business Analytics (supply chain analytics):

In recent years, the importance of supply chains has increased in the world.

Analytics, which means using data to make better decisions, plays a big role in helping supply chains become better at what they do. It helps them make smart choices, save money, and make a company work better overall.

In this program, there’s a special track for supply chain analytics. This means you’ll study some extra classes in your third semester, and you’ll also get to choose a couple more classes that interest you.

Plus, all supply chain analytics students have a chance to do an internship during the summer. This helps you learn more and can open up more job opportunities after you graduate.

It is a 16-month program with 43 credit hours and global career paths.
The cost of this program is as follows:
Application Deadlines:

Arizona State University is one of the top public universities in Tempe, United States. Here are the rankings and ratings:

#179 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #251-300 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #24 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #101-110 in the US UNI (universities).

University of California, Davis:

The UC Davis Master of Science in Business Analytics program helps you become skilled at using data and models to make businesses better. You’ll learn how to ask the right questions, use data tools, and lead changes in organizations.

Their program combines skills in working with data and understanding how businesses operate. You’ll learn about analyzing data, business concepts, and practical skills.

In a one-year project with an analytics team, you’ll work together to figure out tricky data problems and give advice to the company that hired you.

University of California, Davis is one of the top public universities in Davis, United States. Here are the rankings and ratings:

#=118 in the QS World Rankings 2024, #130 in the QS WUR Ranking by subject, #14 in the QS Sustainability Ranking, and #171-180 in the Graduate Employability Ranking.

To gain admission to this university, they expect every student to be good at thinking carefully, solving problems, and using computers.

Additionally, we will choose students based on their leadership in one of these skills: math and data analysis, using computers, business knowledge, or being effective at organising things.

Summer 2024-25 MSBA application deadlines

Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree—16 total years of education. Alternatively, a three-year undergraduate degree with a one-year postgraduate diploma or other graduate degree
GMAT or GRE scores (waiver is also available)
TOEFL or IELTS where applicable.
You must have completed your coursework in these primary areas, computing, mathematics, and statistics.
Updated CV
Essays (two required, one optional)
Transcripts
Recommendations
Application fee of $125
Virtual interview (by invitation only)

‍Estimated program costs

MSBA students who started in the summer of 2023 have paid $1,366 per unit. Course fees are set at enrollment and remain fixed for your MSBA studies.

You have to take 4 units in the summer quarter, 13 units in the fall quarter, 14 in the winter, and 13 in the spring quarter.

MSBA students entered in the summer of 2023 have paid 44 units for a total estimated course fee of $60,104.

Here are the estimated expenses for 2023-24:

Note: The costs for school, like tuition and fees, that you see here are just estimates based on what’s approved right now. But they might not be the final prices. The University of California’s leaders could change them, so the actual costs you pay might be different from what’s listed.

Health insurance requirement

UC Davis signs up every student who’s officially registered with them for their health insurance plan called UC SHIP.

But if you already have health insurance that’s just as good, you can ask to not be included in UC SHIP.

The price for UC SHIP in 2023-24 is $695 for the summer and $2,062 for the rest of the year, including fall, winter, and spring.

Scholarships offered by the university

Here are some of the scholarships offered by the university:

Z and HP Aggie Scholarship (up to $40,000)

The Z by HP Aggie Scholarship winners will get $40,000 to help pay for their MSBA studies. Z by HP will give $20,000, and the UC Davis GSM will also pitch in $20,000 as a Dean’s scholarship match.

The Z by HP Aggie Scholarship wants to find students who:

Are good at leading or setting a good example in their communities or want to be leaders in data analytics or business.
Have shown they care about having different kinds of people in data analytics and business.
Understand the problems that people from different groups in society face and want to make things better.

Make sure to check out the full Z by HP Aggie Scholarship announcement. You need to send in your MSBA Application by the third round, which is on January 10, 2024.

UC and CSU Alumni Grant (up to $9000)

The UC and CSU Alumni Fellowship is a special opportunity for students who have finished their bachelor’s degree at the University of California or California State University.

When you apply for admission, the people in charge will also check if you qualify for this fellowship. You don’t need to fill out an extra application for this scholarship.

Employer match (up to $11,000)

They understand that it can be tough to find a job and university as a student. This scholarship is here to assist students who want to work while they study. If your employer helps pay for your education, the MSBA program will also contribute up to $11,000 to support you.

Admission requirements for MS in business analytics in the USA

Here are some of the requirements that you need to meet to be admitted to this program:

General Admission Requirements

Bachelor’s degree: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as business, mathematics, computer science, or engineering, from an accredited institution.
GPA: Most MSBA programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, some programs may have higher GPA requirements, especially for top-ranked universities.
Standardized test scores: Many MSBA programs require applicants to submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). The minimum score requirements vary from program to program.
English language proficiency scores: International students must submit scores from an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, to demonstrate that they have the necessary English language skills to succeed in the program.

Program-Specific Requirements

In addition to the general admission requirements, some MSBA programs may have additional requirements, such as:

Work experience: Some programs may require applicants to have a certain amount of work experience in a related field.
Quantitative skills: Most MSBA programs require applicants to have strong quantitative skills. This may be demonstrated through coursework in mathematics, statistics, and computer science.
Programming skills: Some MSBA programs require applicants to have programming skills in languages such as Python, R, or SQL.

Other Requirements

In addition to the above requirements, most MSBA programs require applicants to submit the following documents:

Statement of purpose: A statement of purpose is a personal essay in which applicants explain their interest in the MSBA program and their career goals.
Letters of recommendation: Applicants must submit two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
Resume: Applicants must submit a resume that highlights their academic and professional experience.
Official transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities they have attended.

Cost of studying MS in business analytics in the USA

The cost of studying MS in Business Analytics in the USA varies depending on the university, the location, and the program’s duration. However, the average cost for tuition and fees ranges from USD 38,000 to USD 106,889 per year.

In addition to tuition and fees, students must also factor in the cost of living, which includes expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and health insurance.

Here is a breakdown of the average cost of studying MS in Business Analytics in the USA:

Tuition and fees: USD 38,000 to USD 90,586 per year

Cost of living: USD 15,000 to USD 25,000 per year

Total cost: USD 53,000 to USD 115,586 per year

Note: It is important to note that the above costs are just estimates. The actual cost of studying MS in Business Analytics in the USA may vary depending on the individual student’s circumstances.

Career prospects after MS in Business Analytics in the USA

In the USA, people who complete a Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) have great job opportunities.

Many different types of companies need experts in business data analysis, and MSBA graduates have the skills and knowledge that these companies want.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics says that jobs for business analysts will grow by 11% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than most other jobs. This is because businesses need to use data to make better decisions.

People with an MSBA degree can work in many different jobs, like data analyst, business analyst, data scientist, and more. They can work in various industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, and many others.

The pay for MSBA graduates in the USA is quite good. On average, you can earn an average salary of $35,000 annually.

In short, MSBA graduates have a bright future in the USA. The demand for their skills is going to keep growing, and they are in high demand by employers.

MSBA internships and job placements

MSBA internships

Many MSBA programs in the USA require students to complete an internship before graduating. Internships are a great way for students to gain real-world experience in the field of business analytics and to network with potential employers.

Some of the top companies that offer MSBA internships include:

Amazon
Google
Microsoft
Meta
Apple
McKinsey & Company
Boston Consulting Group
Bain & Company
Deloitte
PwC
KPMG

MSBA job placements

MSBA graduates have a very high job placement rate. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 96% of MSBA graduates were employed within three months of graduation.

Some of the top companies that hire MSBA graduates include:

Amazon
Google
Microsoft
Meta
Apple
McKinsey & Company
Boston Consulting Group
Bain & Company
Deloitte
PwC
KPMG

Tips for applying for an MS in business analytics in the USA

Here are some simple tips for applying to MSBA programs in the USA:

Start early: Begin the application process as soon as possible. It can be competitive, so starting early gives you time to research, gather required materials, and meet deadlines.
Choose the right program: Think about your interests, career goals, and finances when selecting a program. Also, consider factors like location, program size, and reputation.
Write good essays: Your statement of purpose and recommendation letters are crucial. Write a statement that tells the admissions team who you are, why you want the program, and your goals. Ask people who know you well for strong recommendation letters.
Prepare for interviews: Some programs may require interviews. Be ready to answer questions about your education, work experience, and why you want to study MSBA.
Connect with alumni: Contact graduates from the MSBA programs you like. They can provide insights about the program and job opportunities for MSBA graduates.

Additional tips:

Take the GRE or GMAT: Most programs require scores from these tests. Check the specific score requirements for the programs you’re interested in.
Improve your English: If English isn’t your first language, you might need an English proficiency test like TOEFL or IELTS. Check the requirements for your chosen programs.
Highlight your skills and experience: In your application, showcase skills and experience related to quantitative methods, statistics, computer science, data analysis, or business intelligence.

Conclusion

Certainly! Pursuing an MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) in the USA is a great choice for those who want to work with data in businesses.

The world relies more on data, and there aren’t enough people with the right skills. An MSBA program helps you learn how to use data to solve real business problems.

Here are some key points about it:

The USA has good universities, and MSBA programs here are well-regarded.
These programs teach you how to use data to help real companies.
After you finish, you can get a job in various fields like technology or finance.
You can also earn good money.

A Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) degree from a top US university can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in a highly competitive job market. If you are interested in pursuing a career in business analytics, the USA is a great place to start your journey.