Why This Matters

  • 2.5 QUINTILLION DATA BYTES CREATED DAILY

    That’s a massive amount of data to analyze and use, and it continues to grow. It’s estimated that by 2020, 1.7 MB of data will be created every second of every day for every person on Earth.

  • RESEARCH JOBS WILL INCREASE 23% BY 2026

    Market research analysts help companies use data to understand marketing trends, develop sales strategies, and improve customer service. The projected growth for these jobs is faster than average.

  • WORK IN ONE OF 23 DIFFERENT INDUSTRIES

    Nearly every industry uses data analysis in some way, but it is popular in fields like communications, retail, insurance, and healthcare. Specialized coursework can prepare you for analytics in these areas.

Our Research

Business analytics is a complex field that requires knowledge of mathematics, analysis methods, statistics, computer science, and more. An advanced degree is usually required for mid- and management-level positions.

We included Master of Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Professional Studies degrees on our list. While these degree types vary in their approach and requirements, they will all prepare you for a career in business analytics.

All of the listed programs have regional accreditation, and many also have specialized accreditation for business programs, like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Accreditations ensure that programs meet high quality standards, and that your degree will be recognized by employers.

We evaluated each program’s reputation, course strength, flexibility, and cost, and calculated the Intelligent Score of each degree on a scale from 0 to 100. Our top picks for the best online master’s in business analytics are respected, affordable, and customizable. (For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.)

  • 61 hours to write this article
  • 105 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 427 education programs we compared

The Top 15 Online Master’s in Business Analytics

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What You Should Know About This Degree

The coursework for all of the programs included on this list is offered fully online. However, some programs have field experience requirements, like practicums or internships, that require in-person attendance. If you are currently working in business analytics or a related field, you may be able to fulfill these requirements at your job, but you should verify the specifics with your program of interest, and confirm that this component fits into your schedule and budget.

In your research, you may see information about degrees in data science. This is a closely related field that focuses on the development and implementation of data-collecting algorithms and tools. Business analytics is more concerned with analyzing and using data once it’s collected. There is a high demand for data scientists as well as business analysts, so consider what your ultimate career goals are when choosing which type of degree is right for you.

Because so many different industries employ analysts for the data they collect, specializing in an area or earning a dual degree can give you an edge as a job candidate. If you want to go into a specific industry like healthcare, management, or marketing, it may be worthwhile to explore schools that offer dual degrees that you can complete simultaneously, saving you time and money.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching Masters Business Analytics programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? Because of the wide range of skills individuals need for business analytics, most programs require students to have an undergraduate degree or coursework in a related field, professional experience in business, or a combination thereof. Find out what the program’s entry requirements are to ensure you fulfill them.
  • Does this program offer the specialization I want? If you want to tailor your master’s degree to your specific interests or career goals, find a program that allows you to specialize in the area that interests you most. Many programs offer concentrations or dual degree options that allow for this type of focused learning.

Once you have identified the programs that interest you, research their application deadlines and admissions requirements. This information is typically available on the program’s webpage; you can also contact the program directly.

Funding your graduate education is another important consideration. Ask about scholarships and financial aid opportunities. If you are currently employed, find out if your job offers any type of tuition assistance benefits.