Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)

1 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Brandeis University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Business Analytics at Brandeis University prepares students to turn complex datasets into meaningful business insights and strategic decisions. The program combines statistics, programming, machine learning, predictive modelling and business applications, making it suitable for graduates interested in careers across technology, finance, marketing, healthcare and consulting.

Curriculum Structure

The program offers 12-month and 16-month study options, with a total requirement of 41 credits. The curriculum is organised by semesters and terms rather than traditional academic years.

First Stage – Analytical Foundations

Students develop a strong foundation in data analysis, statistical methods and programming through courses such as Foundations of Data Analytics, Python and its Application to Business Analytics, and Information Visualization. They also study Introduction to Probability and Statistics for Business and Economics and Applied Econometrics with R, building the ability to interpret data and communicate analytical findings.

Second Stage – Advanced Analytics and Specialisation

Students progress to Advanced Data Analytics and Machine Learning and Data Analysis for Business and Finance, developing skills in predictive modelling and advanced analytical techniques. They can specialise through electives such as Marketing Analytics, Introduction to Natural Language Processing, Predictive Modeling in Sports and Healthcare Analytics and Data Mining, before completing an internship, field project or directed research capstone.

Focus Areas: Business intelligence, data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive modelling, sports analytics, healthcare analytics, marketing analytics, financial analytics, data visualisation and econometrics.

Learning Outcomes: Develop statistical and programming skills, manage and preprocess complex datasets, create predictive models, apply machine learning techniques, interpret business trends, communicate data-driven insights and make informed financial and strategic decisions.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is STEM-designated, making eligible international students in the in-person program potentially eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension after the initial 12-month OPT period. Brandeis University's School of Business and Economics is accredited by AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), an internationally recognised business education accreditation body.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

TFE Times: Ranked No. 5 in the United States for Master's in Business Analytics programs.
QS: Recognised among the world's best Master's in Business Analytics programs.
U.S. News & World Report: Brandeis is recognised among the best business schools in the United States.
Graduate outcomes: 91% of job-seeking MSBA and BA/MSBA graduates from 2025 secured employment or started their own business within six months of graduation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Brandeis University emphasises practical learning through industry internships, business projects and faculty-guided research. Students apply analytical techniques to real-world business challenges while gaining experience in programming, data visualisation and machine learning. The university's location near Boston also provides opportunities to connect with the region's finance, technology and innovation sectors.

Practical learning opportunities and resources include:

Programming Tools: Python and R are incorporated into the curriculum, including Python-based business analytics and Applied Econometrics with R.
Industry Internships: Students can complete company internships as part of their capstone requirements, gaining practical workplace experience.
Business Analytics Field Projects: Students undertake BUS 294a: Data Analytics Field Project, applying analytical methods to practical business problems.
Faculty-Directed Research: Students can complete BUS 290a: Directed Research, developing research and analytical skills under faculty guidance.
Specialised Concentrations: Students can explore Artificial Intelligence, Sports Analytics, Healthcare Analytics and Marketing Analytics through relevant electives.
Career Strategies Center: Provides career guidance, connections with employers, internship support and access to professional development resources.
Global Industry Treks: Students gain exposure to company operations, workplace cultures and industry practices through organised industry visits.
Employer and Alumni Networking: Opportunities to interact with companies, business professionals and alumni through campus and international networking activities.
Hassenfeld Family Innovation Center: Supports research, innovation and collaboration between Brandeis researchers and commercial partners, particularly in life sciences, clean energy and information technology.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSBA program are prepared for analytical and strategic roles across finance, technology, healthcare, marketing and consulting. The combination of technical training and business knowledge helps students pursue opportunities in organisations that rely on data-driven decision-making.

Potential career opportunities include:

Business Intelligence Analyst
Data Scientist
Financial Data Analyst
Marketing Analytics Specialist

Career development and graduate opportunities at Brandeis include:

Career Strategies Center: Provides personalised career guidance, career counselling and connections with employers to support students' professional development.
Personalised Career Coaching: Students can access career coaches and mentors who help them prepare for employment and identify suitable career opportunities.
Employment Outcomes: 91% of job-seeking graduates secured employment or started their own business within six months of graduation in 2025.
Salary Outcomes: The university reports an average U.S. salary and bonus of $80,816, with salaries reaching up to $125,000, depending on industry and experience.
Internship Opportunities: 100% of seeking students from the 2025 MSBA and BA/MSBA graduate cohort secured an internship or field project.
Employer Connections: Brandeis highlights graduate employment connections with organisations including McKinsey & Company, Deloitte, PwC, IBM, Capital One, BlackRock, eBay and iRobot.
Industry Exposure: Global Industry Treks and employer networking activities help students build professional connections and understand industry expectations.
International Career Advantage: The STEM designation provides eligible international students with the opportunity to apply for an additional 24 months of OPT employment authorisation after their initial 12-month OPT period.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates interested in expanding their business and management expertise can explore an MBA, while those seeking deeper financial specialisation can pursue a Master of Science in Finance (MSF). Brandeis also offers MSBA/MBA, MSBA/MSF and MSBA/MA dual-degree pathways for eligible students, subject to admission requirements. Students interested in academic research can also consider doctoral studies in related fields such as economics, finance or business, depending on their research interests and admission qualifications.