Business Analytics, BSBA

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of San Francisco

Program Overview

The Business Analytics, BSBA program at the University of San Francisco prepares students to use advanced analytical tools, data models and algorithms to solve business problems and improve organisational decision-making. It is ideal for students who enjoy working with data, technology and business strategy, offering a STEM-designated education that combines business fundamentals with practical analytical skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Building Business and Quantitative Foundations

Students begin with essential business knowledge, quantitative reasoning and communication skills. Courses such as BUS 100 – Launch into Business, MATH 106 – Business Statistics and ECON 110 – Introductory Economics introduce students to business operations, statistical thinking and economic principles.

Year 2 – Developing Analytical and Business Skills

Students strengthen their understanding of accounting, finance, organisational behaviour and analytical methods. Courses such as BUS 202 – Principles of Managerial Accounting, BUS 204 – Foundations of Analytics and BUS 205 – AI and Emerging Technologies help students connect quantitative analysis with business decisions and emerging digital tools.

Year 3 – Applying Business Knowledge

Students move into upper-division business subjects that develop their ability to evaluate organisational challenges and use technology in business environments. Courses such as BUS 302 – Marketing Principles, BUS 308 – Systems in Organizations and BUS 305 – Principles of Finance help students understand how analytics supports marketing, information systems and financial decision-making.

Year 4 – Advanced Major Study and Strategic Application

Students complete their upper-division Business Analytics major requirements, electives and remaining university and business core requirements. The final stage includes advanced major coursework and opportunities to connect analytical knowledge with broader business strategy through courses such as BUS 403 – Entrepreneurial Strategy and relevant major-level coursework.

Note: This is a representative four-year progression based on USF’s published business-major planning sequence. Students should follow their official degree evaluation and major advising plan for exact course selection and sequencing.

Focus Areas

Business analytics, data modelling, predictive analysis, business decision-making, quantitative reasoning, artificial intelligence in business, data visualisation, business systems, strategic planning, technology-driven problem-solving.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to use analytical tools to describe and predict data, interpret business information, apply models and algorithms to practical challenges, communicate findings clearly, and translate data into actionable recommendations that improve business performance.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

USF’s McLaren Undergraduate School of Management operates within the university’s business education framework. The program is STEM-designated, supporting its emphasis on analytical and technological competencies. Confirm the current accreditation status directly with the university before entering a specific accreditation label in the database.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

#27 in Undergraduate Business Analytics – U.S. News & World Report 2027.
#6 in earnings for undergraduate business alumni – U.S. Department of Education 2024.
11:1 student-to-faculty ratio – USF.
#1 Best College Location in California – Niche 2026.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

USF’s Business Analytics students learn by applying analytical concepts to real-world business situations, using leading commercial software and strengthening their communication and presentation skills. Studying in San Francisco also gives students opportunities to connect with technology companies, startups and industry professionals. Students can take part in data-focused competitions, internships and interdisciplinary projects that encourage them to turn analysis into practical solutions.

Practical learning opportunities include:

Commercial analytical software: Students use leading commercial software to develop analytical skills and work through real-world business scenarios.
Women in Data Science Datathon: Students can participate in the WiDS Datathon hosted by Stanford University, applying data skills to practical challenges.
Business Analytics Competition & Conference: Students can participate in the event at Manhattan College and apply classroom learning to real-world problems.
Internships: Students pursue internship opportunities with companies across the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, with support from professors and the Career Services Center.
Horizon Collective: Beginning in the first semester, students can work on interdisciplinary projects involving sustainability, artificial intelligence and health.
Collaborative projects: Students from different majors work together on research and applied projects, including projects presented at the Horizon Collective showcase.
Entrepreneurship: Business Analytics student Kangle Lin ’23 founded Gumdrop, a matchmaking app that was acquired by Vlogmi Corp. in 2021.
Industry exposure: San Francisco’s startup and business environment provides opportunities for professional networking and engagement with industry leaders.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Business Analytics, BSBA program prepares graduates to use data and business knowledge to improve decision-making across industries. Students develop analytical, communication and problem-solving abilities that can support careers in consulting, operations, banking, sales operations and supply chain management.

Potential career roles: Business Analyst, Operations Analyst, Sales Operations Analyst, Associate Banker

Additional career development opportunities include:

Career support: USF’s Career Services Center and faculty help students identify and pursue internships aligned with their interests.
Employment outcomes: USF reports that 79% of its 2024 BSBA graduates were employed, 10% continued their education, and 90% were employed or continuing education. The reported average salary was $76,170, with an 82% internship participation rate among respondents. These are School of Management BSBA outcomes, not Business Analytics-only figures.
Industry connections: Alumni from the Business Analytics program work at organisations including Athelas, Natera, L’Occitane, NetApp and Adobe.
STEM designation: The STEM-designated degree supports analytical and technological career preparation. USF notes that eligible international students may benefit from extended U.S. work authorisation, subject to applicable immigration requirements.
Graduate outcomes: USF’s published career information identifies Business Analyst, Operations Analyst, Sales Operations Analyst, Associate Banker, Global Supply Analyst and Business Consultant as potential career paths.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue postgraduate study in business analytics, applied economics, information systems, data analytics or business administration, depending on their interests and admission qualifications. USF also offers an accelerated Business Analytics/Applied Economics BSBA/MS pathway and a Business Analytics/Management BSBA/MIM option for eligible students who wish to combine undergraduate and graduate study.