Online MBA Business Analytics

Q: Why an MBA in Business Analytics?

In a nutshell, a Business Analyst is wont to collect, process, and analyze big data that can influence business and its outcomes. Most businesses require data to be broken down and interpreted well enough to make informed business decisions. Therefore, an MBA in Business Analytics will be of immense value to business executives and leaders and help them catapult their businesses or seek lucrative careers in other business organizations.

Q: How hard is a Business Analytics MBA?

Any individual with a keen analytical mind and a flair for business, mathematics, statistics, and computer science is best suited to take a Business Analytics MBA. With dedication and adequate study, most courses in this program are easy to comprehend and master. But having said that, difficulty levels depend solely on the student’s academic capabilities, diligence, and hard work.

Q: What can I do with an MBA in Business Analytics?

An MBA in Business Analytics prepares graduates for brand management, market research, and data science roles. Careers in this industry include business intelligence analysts, business systems analysts, financial analysts, and marketing analysts, among others.

Q: How long does it take to complete an MBA in Business Analytics program?

The duration to complete an MBA in Business Analytics program varies but typically ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the program structure, study format (full-time, part-time, or online), and individual pace. Accelerated programs may finish in a year, while part-time options allow flexibility for working professionals over a more extended period.

Q: Do I need work experience in Business Analytics to apply for an online MBA program?

Work experience requirements for online MBA programs in Business Analytics vary. Some programs prefer candidates with relevant work experience to enrich classroom discussions, while others directly admit applicants with strong academic backgrounds. Check specific program requirements, but having prior experience is often beneficial for a comprehensive understanding of the field.

Q: How does an online MBA in Business Analytics differ from undergraduate programs in the same field?

An online MBA in Business Analytics typically builds on foundational undergraduate knowledge, providing advanced and specialized insights. MBA programs emphasize strategic decision-making, leadership, and practical application, catering to professionals seeking managerial roles. Undergraduate programs focus more on fundamental concepts, theory, and technical skills, laying the groundwork for advanced studies.

Learn strategic decision-making with the Online MBA Business Analytics program. Blend flexibility and analytical prowess for business success and elevating your career.

Introduction
Best Programs
Affordable Programs
Understanding Programs
Admission Requirements
No GMAT Programs
Accreditation for Programs
Free Courses
How to Pay?
Careers & Salaries
Certifications and Licensing
Additional Resources
FAQs

Check Mark Edited By Arlene Ward

Check Mark Review & Contribution By Dr. Jay Connell

Today’s business has transitioned to a digital world driven by information and data at our fingertips. Therefore, it has become very important for business executives and leaders to access such data, analyze it, and effectively use it to improve business outcomes. Understanding and interpreting data is vital for making critical strategic business decisions and using data as a competitive advantage. Professional analysts must collect, process, and interpret data to enhance corporate decision-making, even though computers can do some of the work associated with big data. The Online MBA Business Analytics specialization is designed for potential managers, senior managers, and business executives who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of Business Analytics, including data science, data analytics, and business decision-making backed by data and analytics.

Featured Online MBA Programs

Best Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

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To qualify as one of the best colleges that offer an online MBA Business Analytics, several aspects need to be assessed and factored in as well, such as the duration and structure of the program, the faculty’s experience and quality of teaching, the infrastructure of the college, student services, accreditation, and affordability. Considering all of these and more, here are some of the MBAs in Business Analytics best colleges:

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College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599	$10,552	91%
#2 Villanova University 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, Pennsylvania 19085	$20,619	90%
#3 University of Maryland College Park, Maryland 20742	$13,158	87%
#4 University of Illinois 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820	$15,016	85%
#5 University of Massachusetts 374 Whitmore Building 181 Presidents Drive, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003	$14,014	82%
#6 University of Dayton 300 College Park, Dayton, Ohio 45469	$17,730	82%
#7 Pepperdine University 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California 90263	$36,200	86%
#8 Syracuse University 900 South Crouse Ave., Syracuse, New York 13244	$40,392	83%
#9 University of Delaware 104 Hullihen Hall, Newark, Delaware 19716	$34,164	81%
#10 Indiana University 107 South Indiana Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405	$9,786	79%
#11 University of South Florida 4202 East Fowler Ave, Tampa, Florida 33620	$8,350	75%
#12 University of North Carolina, Wilmington 601 South College Road, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403	$4,719	72%
#13 The University of Texas 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas 75080	$14,560	70%
#14 The Pennsylvania State University 201 Old Main, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802	$22,464	71%
#15 American University 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20016	$34,533	79%
#16 University of Nebraska, Lincoln 1400 R Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588	$6,138	66%
#17 Milwaukee School of Engineering 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202	$23,355	65%
#18 Central Michigan University 106 Warriner Hall, Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48859	$14,223	61%
#19 University of North Dakota 264 Centennial Drive, Stop 8193, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202	$11,060	61%
#20 University of North Carolina, Greensboro 1400 Spring Garden St, Greensboro, North Carolina 27402	$5,219	59%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Most Affordable Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

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Even though many working professionals can afford or at least partly afford to pay for an online MBA in Business Analytics through their salaries, the cost of Master’s programs such as this is expensive. However, finding a cheaper MBA program should not come at the expense of the program’s quality, accreditation, and overall credibility. Here are a few affordable online MBA Business Analytics programs that do not compromise on those aspects:

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College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 University of North Carolina, Pembroke One University Drive, Pembroke, North Carolina 28372	$4,280	41%
#2 University of North Carolina, Wilmington 601 South College Road, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403	$4,719	72%
#3 United States University 7675 Mission Valley Road, San Diego, California 92108	$5,200	N/A
#4 University of North Carolina, Greensboro 1400 Spring Garden St, Greensboro, North Carolina 27402	$5,219	59%
#5 Arkansas Tech University Administration Bldg 200, 1509 N Boulder Ave, Russellville, Arkansas 72801	$5,256	38%
#6 University of South Dakota 414 E Clark St, Vermillion, South Dakota 57069	$6,062	59%
#7 American Public University 111 W Congress St, Charles Town, West Virginia 25414	$6,660	40%
#8 University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514	$7,088	46%
#9 Southern Illinois University Il State Rte 157, Edwardsville, Illinois 62026	$7,127	51%
#10 Frostburg State University 101 Braddock Road, Frostburg, Maryland 21532	$7,866	49%
#11 Murray State University 218 Wells Hall, Murray, Kentucky 42071	$7,981	55%
#12 Wilmington University 320 Dupont Hwy, New Castle, Delaware 19720	$8,784	21%
#13 Cedarville University 251 N. Main Street, Cedarville, Ohio 45314	$9,065	75%
#14 Ohio University 020 Chubb Hall, Athens, Ohio 45701	$9,444	65%
#15 Iowa State University 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, Iowa 50011	$9,758	74%
#16 Indiana University 107 South Indiana Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405	$9,786	79%
#17 Grand Canyon University 3300 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85017	$10,528	41%
#18 Clemson University 201 Sikes Hall, Clemson, South Carolina 29634	$10,600	84%
#19 University of North Dakota 264 Centennial Drive, Stop 8193, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202	$11,060	61%
#20 University of Maryland College Park, Maryland 20742	$13,158	87%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Understanding Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

A typical MBA in Business Analytics program involves the collection of data and its interpretation. The program emphasizes data collection, data management, data analysis, and statistical research for businesses to gain a competitive edge over their rivals, improve customer loyalty and engagement, and increase their presence and influence in the market.

Business Analytics studies rely heavily on algorithms and techniques derived from statistics and machine learning, prescriptive analytics, modeling techniques, and programming and application development to optimize, simulate, and assist decision-making. Further emphasis is given to integrating applications with business operations and analyzing, forecasting, and using data to solve business problems. Graduates are trained to make data-driven decisions using different analytical tools and data sets. MBA in Business Analytics programs can be synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid in their delivery and instruction, which determine or influence the duration of the program.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

Like other graduate-level business programs, an MBA program provides students with a solid base in core subjects. However, the online MBA Business Analytics program goes a step further. It prepares students for lucrative careers in analyzing, interpreting, forecasting, and leveraging big data to drive business growth and solve real-world business problems. The curricula of Business Analytics MBA are largely split into two distinct sections – business and technical – and usually consist of the following courses:

Business-related:

Applying Analytics Across Business Functions

This course equips students with advanced analytics tools and methodologies to enhance decision-making across various business domains. It focuses on integrating data-driven insights into marketing, finance, operations, and strategy, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how analytics can drive efficiency and innovation in diverse organizational functions.

Data Modeling and Predictive Analysis

This course explores the principles of constructing effective data models and employing predictive analytics. Students learn to extract meaningful patterns, forecast trends, and make strategic decisions using advanced modeling techniques, preparing them for data-driven decision-making in the business realm.

Information Analysis and Management

This course sharpens student’s skills in extracting valuable insights from vast datasets. Focused on data management strategies, it equips students with tools to organize, interpret, and communicate complex information, fostering proficiency in turning raw data into actionable intelligence for informed decision-making in diverse business contexts.

Strategic Management

This course guides students in aligning analytics with organizational goals. Emphasizing the strategic application of data-driven insights equips them with skills to formulate and execute business strategies that leverage analytics, ensuring informed decision-making at the highest levels of organizational leadership.

Business Intelligence

This course focuses on leveraging data for competitive advantage. Students acquire skills in collecting, analyzing, and transforming data into actionable insights. Emphasizing tools like data visualization, the course equips future business leaders to make informed decisions, driving organizational success through strategic use of business intelligence.

Other examples of core MBA in Business Analytics courses include:

Economics
Corporate Finance
Managing Information Systems in a Global Economy
Managerial Accounting: A Management Perspective
Managing and Leading Individuals and Groups in Organizations
Data Management, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Marketing
Descriptive Analytics
Marketing-based Management
Business Intelligence
Digital Marketing
Business Law
Data Analysis for Managers
Global Business and Sustainability
Global Economic Environment
Social Media and Web Analytics
Probability and Statistics
Financial Analysis and Risk Management
Search Engine Marketing and Optimization
Communicating with Data
Managing Digital Businesses and Platforms
Business Data Modelling and Predictive Analysis
Strategic Management: Integrative Experience
Operations Management

Technically oriented:

Data Modeling and Predictive Analysis
Communicating with Data
Introduction to Business Analytics
Analytical Methods for Data Mining
Prescriptive Analytics
Predictive Analytics
Programming for Analytics
Data Visualization
Analytics Leadership and Strategy
Database Concepts
Data Mining and Predictive Analysis
Database Design and Implementation
Decision Analytics and Visualization
Data Mining for Business Analytics
Python Programming
Linear Algebra for Business Analytics

Leveraging the knowledge and skills they would have picked by the end of an MBA in Business Analytics, graduates would be primed to:

build a taxonomy of problem-solving techniques based on the types and quantum of data and the essence of the business decision-making context;
develop data strategies for businesses and utilize data in organizational decision-making;
understand and effectively use state-of-the-art data science and data analytics techniques that are contextual to business and its functions;
devise reliable ways to collect, analyze, interpret, and visualize data;
detect accounting fraud, develop marketing and pricing strategies, and optimize supply chain operations using analytical tools used for complex and big data;
effectively use different analytical tools and data sets and mine data;
understand data modeling and predictive analytics in greater detail; and
use analytics to improve profitability and competitiveness, minimize risk, and maximize profits across key functional areas in business such as finance, marketing, supply chain management, human resources, and project management.

MBA in Business Analytics Degree Types

An online MBA in Business Analytics is a concentration of a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). It is similar to other MBA concentrations, such as Entrepreneurship, Finance, Healthcare Management, Human Resources, International Business, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, Project Management, Supply Chain Management, etc.

As for Business Analytics, there is also the Master of Science or MS in Business Analytics, which is a compelling alternative to its MBA counterpart. In addition, there are alternatives in related subjects of Business Analytics, such as Master’s in Data Analytics and Master’s in Data Science, that students can explore before applying to an MBA in Business Analytics online program.

By and large, the MBA degree imparts the fundamentals of business and business administration, and the concentration in Business Analytics builds upon that with data management, modeling techniques, programming, data analysis, data science, and much more.

MBA or MS Analytics

In addition to an MBA (Master of Business Administration) specializing in Business Analytics, the MS (Master of Science) in Business Analytics is an equally popular choice with some students. Although both the MBA and MS degrees provide advanced education in analytics, they lead to slightly different career paths.

The question thus presents itself – MBA or MS Analytics? The answer is illustrated in the table below:

Master of Business Administration (MBA) Business Analytics	Master of Science (MS) Business Analytics
Provides students with skills to manage businesses and make data-driven decisions	Provides students with the skills and experience required to use analytic tools
Prepares business professionals to lead and manage data analytics projects	Prepares students for technical careers in data science and data intelligence
Focuses more on business administration, with Business Analytics as a concentration	Focuses more on software engineering and predictive modeling that can assist businesses
Coursework is oriented around the general application of data analytics that improves business outcomes	Coursework is oriented toward programming, database setup and management, and analytics for strategic outcomes

Specializations in MBA in Business Analytics Programs

Specializations can help online MBA Business Analytics programs develop tightly focused, career-ready skills that fulfill personal and professional goals. In addition, they offer a level of depth in a particular area of Business Analytics that would otherwise not be attained through regular coursework. Here are a few concentrations and specializations for students to choose from:

Area of Focus	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
Community And Economic Development	This specialization combines business analytics with a social impact focus. Students learn to apply analytical tools to address socioeconomic challenges, fostering sustainable growth and community well-being. This unique specialization prepares future leaders to drive positive change by integrating business strategies with community development initiatives.	Community Development Managers, Economic Analysts, and Social Impact Consultants
Finance	This specialization sharpens students’ analytical skills for financial decision-making. Focused on applying data-driven insights to financial strategies, it equips graduates to navigate complex markets, optimize investments, and enhance overall financial performance, positioning them as adept analysts and leaders in the finance sector.	Financial Analysts, Investment Managers, and Risk Analysts
Financial Engineering	This specialization explores the intersection of finance and advanced quantitative methods. Students learn to develop sophisticated models for risk management, derivatives pricing, and portfolio optimization. This specialization prepares graduates for roles where they can apply mathematical and computational techniques to innovate in the financial industry.	Quantitative Analysts, Financial Engineers, and Risk Modelers
Data Forensics	This specialization focuses on investigative analytics. Students learn to detect and respond to data breaches, fraud, and cyber threats. This specialization prepares graduates to safeguard organizational assets, ensuring data integrity and compliance in an increasingly digital and interconnected business landscape.	Cybersecurity Analysts, Digital Forensics Investigators, and Incident Responders
Health Care Management	This specialization combines business analytics with healthcare expertise. Students gain skills to optimize healthcare operations, improve patient outcomes, and enhance decision-making through data-driven insights. This specialization equips graduates to lead in the dynamic healthcare sector, driving efficiency and innovation in patient care.	Healthcare Administrators, Health Informatics Specialists, and Data Analytics Managers in Healthcare

Examples of other specializations in online MBA business analytics include:

MBA in Data Analytics
MBA in Data Science
MBA in Business Intelligence and Analytics
MBA Statistics Concentration
Online MBA Marketing Analytics
MBA in Research and Business Analytics
Engineering Leadership and Innovation Management
Business Sustainability Strategy
Human Resource Management
Project Management
Management Consulting
Marketing Analytics
Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Accounting Foundations
Public Administration
Cybersecurity Intelligence Leadership
General Management
Taxation
Advanced Accounting
Business Architecture
Strategic Leadership
Supply Chain Management

Note: Specializations and concentrations listed here can be taken up in addition to basic coursework offered by a Business Analytics program. However, many of these specializations are also independent MBA or other Master’s programs.

Timeline for graduation from Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

An online MBA in Business Analytics typically takes between 16 and 24 months to complete. However, part-time students and working professionals can tailor their programs and complete them within up to five years. In addition, a program often includes a capstone project that requires additional time and research, which may lengthen the duration.

1-Year Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

Most MBA Business Analytics programs take anywhere from 16 months to 24 months to complete on average. However, a few Universities offer one-year MBA Business Analytics programs that can take as little as 12 months to finish as full-time students. That said, students should note that these programs can be rigorous and taxing and are also generally available only to those with substantial prior work experience. The University of North Carolina Wilmington¹ is one such institution that offers a 1-year MBA in Business Analytics.

Online MBA Business Analytics Programs Admission Requirements

The most basic MBA in Business Analytics eligibility criterion is the requirement for a candidate to hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States. Additional criteria may vary by college and program (students are advised to check with the college and/or program guide) but are largely the same, such as:

An Application Form and the Requisite Application Fee.
A Professional Résumé.
A Letter of Intent or Personal Statement
At least 2 Letters of Recommendation.
A cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or better in undergraduate work.
A minimum of 2 Years of Professional Work Experience

Important Points to Note:

(a) Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 must demonstrate professional experience/advancement that highlights progression since graduation and show how they will contribute to the MBA program. However, not all schools require a GPA of 3.0; some make do with 2.7 but against certain other conditions.
(b) Candidates must have prior education in economics, accounting, statistics, and finance, failing which they are suggested to take prerequisite courses.

Online MBA Business Analytics No GMAT Programs

It is not uncommon for students to look for online MBA Business Analytics No GMAT programs. Unfortunately for them, most schools require a GMAT or GRE test score to be submitted along with their application, although some of these schools do offer a waiver under certain conditions. For example, the University of North Carolina Wilmington² requires a GMAT score above 500 or an equivalent GRE score, which is waived if the candidate has:

5+ years of managerial work experience.
An undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.2 or higher.
Completing an advanced degree (graduate level or above) included some quantitative coursework.

Another example is William Paterson University³, which also offers a GMAT/GRE waiver for its MBA programs.

Accreditation for Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

Accreditation is granted to colleges or programs that continuously meet certain established quality standards in academics, faculty qualifications, and student services. Accredited online MBA Business Analytics programs ensure students and employers that the knowledge and skills gained from such programs are credible and valuable. In addition, third-party organizations provide accreditation, either programmatically or regionally, some examples of which are:

Programmatic:
Regional:

Students must always consider accredited programs or colleges when applying for an MBA in Business Analytics. More information on accreditation can be found in the Accreditation Guide.

Free Online MBA Business Analytics Courses

Free online courses provide accessible knowledge in data-driven decision-making. While not accredited, these programs offer valuable insights into analytics tools, techniques, and applications. MBA in Business Analytics, students can enhance skills, explore career interests, and gain practical experience. Though lacking formal accreditation, these courses are a flexible, cost-effective resource for self-directed learners seeking foundational business analytics expertise. Here are a few free courses that MBA in Business Analytical students can explore:

Course	Business Analytics Specialization¹³
Provided by	Coursera
Description	In this course, participants can explore using data for recruitment and performance assessment in organizations. Additionally, they can model supply and demand for various business scenarios, empowering them to make well-informed decisions through data analysis. The course also provides learners the skills to address business challenges using data-driven methodologies, fostering an understanding of tools and techniques for predicting customer behavior.

Course	Online Business Analytics Classes¹⁴
Provided by	Skillshare
Description	Throughout this course, participants establish a robust groundwork in business data analysis, visualization, and interpretation. Key subjects covered include market research, customer segmentation, and trend analysis. Learners explore diverse analytical tools and techniques to extract valuable insights, facilitating informed decision-making in various business contexts.

Course	Statistics for Business Analytics: Modelling and Forecasting¹⁵
Provided by	edX
Description	Ideal for those seeking foundational analysis and statistics skills without prior experience, the course delves into statistical methods for examining variable relationships. It uses past data to forecast future trends and address queries on customer experience, park usage prediction, and sales fluctuations over the next six months based on historical data.

How to Pay for Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

With every passing year, the cost of Master’s programs keeps increasing, putting pressure on students to find other or alternative funding sources. The cost of a good online MBA Business Analytics program can add up to several thousand dollars. Therefore, students should explore and consider some of the following funding mechanisms from the many out there:

Scholarships

Scholarships are typically awarded to students based on their academic achievements. Corporations, families, small businesses, and non-profit, cultural, or religious organizations offer them to students who meet their particular eligibility requirements. Scholarships can also be awarded based on various factors other than academics, such as creativity, athletic ability, musical talent, etc. Students can also look for Disability Scholarships, African American Scholarships, Scholarships for Women, and other scholarships catering to certain societal sections. With many Scholarship Scams surfacing online, students should be careful while finding and applying for scholarships.

Grants

Grants are usually available to low-income students and help them cover their tuition fees and other educational and student-related expenditures, such as accommodation, transport, books, etc. In almost all cases, grants are awarded solely based on financial needs.

Employer Sponsorship

Many companies allow their employees to work and study simultaneously and offer to pay for advanced education under certain conditions. And since MBA programs prefer that their students have prior work experience, working professionals applying to such programs should check with their employers for internal schemes they may have for encouraging and funding education.

Student Loans

Students can borrow money from the federal government, banks, or financial corporations to pay for their tuition. However, loans are expected to be repaid and interest, but defaulting on repayments can lead to high student debt.

Payment Plans

Some colleges divide the tuition fee into equated or incremental payments, allowing students to pay for their tuition over a longer period rather than as a lump sum at the beginning of the term.

FAFSA

Students can apply for FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid to see if they are eligible for financial aid across a chosen university set. A complete guide to FAFSA is available here.

The best Financial Guide provides fuller information on how students can fund their MBA in Business Analytics.

Scholarships for MBA in Business Analytical Students

Finding scholarships is key for MBA in Business Analytics students to ease financial strain. Researching options, understanding eligibility, and meeting deadlines are vital steps. This approach helps secure financial support, allowing students to pursue their academic and career aspirations without excessive financial burdens. Some scholarships are:

Scholarship	Deadline	Award/Amount	Description
Fisher Family Fund Fellowship¹⁶	December, annually	$10,000	The Fisher Family Scholarship Fund, initiated by the Fisher family, is dedicated to supporting students in their educational pursuits. This scholarship targets minority graduating seniors joining accredited colleges or universities, prioritizing qualities such as academic excellence, leadership, community service, and financial need during selection.
MinneAnalytics Scholarships¹⁷	Varies	$1,000	The MinneAnalytics scholarship program assists undergraduate students displaying a strong interest in pursuing a career in analytics and a commitment to community engagement. This endeavor aims to motivate and empower students exhibiting a genuine passion for the field, nurturing academic and community-oriented endeavors

Careers and Salary Outlook for MBA in Business Analytics Graduates

By the use of knowledge and skills acquired through an online MBA Business Analytics program, such as predictive analysis, econometrics, data mining, marketing intelligence, data visualization, etc., graduates of the degree can seek several roles in a variety of settings, including Financial Engineering, Market Research, Management Consulting, Risk Management, and Data Analytics. Job roles include but are not limited to:

Job Title	Senior Business Analyst – RFP¹⁸
Median Salary	$88,790
Job Growth (2021- 2031)	No Data Available
Job Description	The Senior Business Analyst (RFP) collaborates with sales, marketing, finance, legal, and product teams to deliver comprehensive, accurate, and timely content. Creating proposals, bids, quotations, or other written materials, they tailor descriptions of the organization’s products and services to meet the specific needs of potential clients.

Occupation	Management Analysts¹⁹
Median Annual Salary	$95,290
Job Growth (up to 2032)	10% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Management analysts, commonly known as management consultants, suggest strategies to enhance organizational efficiency. They guide managers in improving profitability by minimizing costs and boosting revenues.

Occupation	Data Scientists²⁰
Median Annual Salary	$103,500
Job Growth (up to 2032)	35% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Data Scientists extract, analyze, and interpret intricate data sets, revealing valuable insights to solve complex problems. They draw meaningful conclusions that steer data-informed decision-making using advanced statistical methods, computational techniques, machine learning algorithms, and programming skills. Their sought-after expertise is in high demand across various industries to unlock the potential of data.

Occupation	Operations Research Analysts²¹
Median Annual Salary	$85,720
Job Growth (up to 2032)	23% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Operations research analysts aid organizations in making informed decisions and resolving issues using mathematics and logic. Their typical tasks include identifying problems in business, logistics, healthcare, or other sectors, collecting and organizing data from various sources, seeking expert input, analyzing data, developing and testing quantitative models and analytical tools, and presenting findings and recommendations through documents for managerial consideration.

Certifications and Licensing for MBA in Business Analytics Graduates

Although an online MBA Business Analytics graduate is sufficient to seek lucrative careers in various professional settings, certifications by third-party organizations add extra credentials to better one’s prospects. Certifications also acknowledge and endorse the level and depth of a graduate’s knowledge and skills, adding value to a Professional Résumé and making it easier to stand out from the crowd of job seekers. A few examples of certifications include:

IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional²²

The IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) certification validates expertise in business analysis. Recognized globally, CBAP credential holders demonstrate proficiency in identifying business needs, devising effective solutions, and facilitating project success. This certification is essential for professionals seeking to advance their careers and make significant contributions in the field of business analysis.

PMI Professional in Business Analysis²³

The PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA) certification signifies proficiency in business analysis within project management. Acknowledged globally, PMI-PBA holders exhibit skills in defining project requirements, enhancing project outcomes, and aligning business strategies. This certification is paramount for professionals aiming to excel in project-driven environments and elevate their business analysis expertise.

As for licensure, there are no special licensing requirements for jobs in Business Analytics, although some in the medical or scientific fields or the government may require a specialized certification and training.

Additional Resources for MBA in Business Analytics Professionals

As we know it today, the business world is shrinking in that it has blurred geographical borders and made almost every part of the globe accessible through information and technology. Therefore, online MBA Business Analytics graduates and those working in the field of Business Analytics need to advance their knowledge and network with other Analysts worldwide. Doing so will open their minds to many possibilities, insights, and solutions to complex problems. A few resources that help with this are:

International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)²⁴
The International Institute of Business Analysis™ (IIBA®) is a professional association dedicated to advancing the field of business analysis for improved enterprise outcomes. With 30,000 members, 120 chapters, 1,500 volunteers, and 500 global partners, IIBA fosters professional recognition, facilitates networking, sets foundational standards, and provides resources and internationally recognized certification programs for career progression.
BA Times²⁵
BA Times is a wealth of information for Business Analysts. It features blogs, white papers, workshops, webinars, useful templates, and newsletters to stay informed.
Modern Analyst²⁶
Modern Analyst is a portal for businesses and data analysts. It offers books, templates, training programs, directory listings, articles, etc., and information on careers and webinars. The site also provides networking opportunities and a forum to discuss issues in Business Analytics.
Fubon Center for Technology, Business, and Innovation²⁷
The ‘Fubon Center for Technology, Business, and Innovation fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration among its established areas of expertise, including data analytics, financial technology, software, and artificial intelligence.
Domo²⁸
Domo specializes in data integration, business intelligence and analytics, and intelligent apps. The site hosts a vast resource library with articles, reports, guides, webinars, videos, and more, along with its commercial products and solutions.

FAQs About Online MBA Business Analytics Programs

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What are MBA Analytics and Decision Science?

An MBA in Analytics and Data Science primarily teaches students how to find insights from big data collected and collated, along with the use of Decision Science, which is essentially the use of data as a tool to make informed, strategic decisions and solve complex business problems from a business-first perspective.