Program Overview
Business analytics searches for new insights and patterns in data to draw inferences that improve organizational performance based on statistical methods. There is a growing need for business analysts in today’s highly competitive world. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides a positive job outlook through 2030 with an expected growth of 14 percent, which is faster than average.
The Master of Science in Business Analytics program directly prepares students for advanced entry into a career as a Business Analyst or Data Scientist. It equips students with data analytics and business intelligence skills, including analytical modeling, forecasting, predictions and machine learning. The primary focus of the program is teaching advanced analytical applications and methods using relevant software packages.
How Do I Know if This Program Is Right for Me?
The Business Analytics program caters to both early-career professionals and those transitioning into new career paths. It focuses on the application of data management and analysis using modern computing, coding methods and preparing to integrate future technology into the data cycle.
Upon completion, you will be able to contribute immediately to firms and other organizations as a business/data analyst. To that end, the program considers the breadth of the data cycle:
- Data collection, generation and processing
- Data storage and management
- Data analysis and visualization
- Data interpretation
You will also be prepared to take the Business Intelligence and Data Analyst (BIDA) certification exam.
Learning Experiences
- Classes are in person on the Ashland campus.
- You will have the option for an internship/ work-experience as part of your culminating experience.
STEM Designation
Ashland University's M.S. in Business Analytics is STEM-designated, a recognition of its focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This designation is not just a mark of the rigorous, data-driven curriculum but also unlocks significant career advantages for international students. It allows graduates to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) by 24 months, beyond the standard 12 months, totaling a 36-month period in the U.S. This extended OPT period is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the business analytics field, enhancing your career prospects significantly.
Curriculum
Students are required to have at least a basic understanding of undergraduate level statistics & business foundations, demonstrated either by relevant coursework or professional experience. Knowledge of statistical software and/or programming languages, such as R or Python, is strongly encouraged but not required.
| Course # | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required: | ||
| BANA 505 | Applied Statistics for Business | 3 |
| BANA 510 | Data Management | 3 |
| BANA 515 | Data Visualization | 3 |
| BANA 520 | Advanced Business Spreadsheets | 3 |
| BANA 525 | Predictive Analytics | 3 |
| BANA 530 | Machine Learning | 3 |
| BANA 535 | Optimization Methods for Business | 3 |
| BANA 540 | Case Studies in Business Analytics | 3 |
| Electives (at least 6 credits): | ||
| BANA 545 | Graduate Internship in Business Analytics | 3-6 |
| BANA 550 | Research in Business Analytics | 3-6 |
| MBA 500-Level Courses | With consent of the program director | 3-6 |
| TOTAL |
30 |
