Business Analytics, MS

16 Months On Campus Masters Program

Arizona State University Tempe

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Business Analytics at Arizona State University's W. P. Carey School of Business prepares students to use data, advanced analytics and technology to solve business challenges and support strategic decisions. This STEM-designated programme combines quantitative methods with practical business applications, making it suitable for students who want to build careers in data analytics, financial technology, marketing, consulting or supply chain management.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires 30 credit hours and is available in full-time, on-campus and online formats. The on-campus programme can be completed in approximately nine months or 16 months, depending on the specialisation selected, while the online format is designed for working professionals and does not include the optional specialisation tracks.

Core Courses: Students build their analytical foundation through Analytics for Unstructured Data (CIS 509) and Business Process Analytics (SCM 517). These courses develop skills in working with complex data, understanding business processes and using analytical methods to improve organisational performance.

Elective Courses: Students complete 21 credit hours of electives, allowing them to develop expertise in areas such as big data, cloud computing, financial technology, marketing analytics and supply chain analytics. The specific elective choices depend on the selected study format and approved course offerings.

Applied Project: The programme concludes with a practical project comprising Applied Project (CIS 593) and Applied Project (SCM 593). Students apply their analytical knowledge to business-related challenges, developing solutions that demonstrate their ability to work with data and support business decisions.

Specialisation Options: On-campus students can deepen their knowledge through optional tracks in Cloud Computing and Tech Consulting, FinTech, Marketing Analytics and Supply Chain Analytics. Big data forms part of the programme's broader analytics foundation.

Focus Areas

Business Analytics, Big Data, Cloud Computing, Financial Technology, Marketing Analytics, Supply Chain Analytics, Data Management, Analytics for Unstructured Data, Business Process Analytics, Predictive Analytics, Data Modelling, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Technology Consulting and Business Intelligence.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to extract meaningful insights from structured and unstructured data, apply analytical techniques to business problems and lead data-driven projects. They learn to evaluate business processes, use modelling techniques, identify opportunities for improvement and communicate analytical findings effectively. The programme also helps students develop specialised knowledge in areas such as financial technology, marketing, cloud computing and supply chain management.

Professional Alignment

STEM designation: The on-campus MS in Business Analytics is STEM-designated. Eligible international students may qualify for an initial 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT), followed by a 24-month STEM OPT extension, subject to US immigration requirements.
Online programme consideration: Although the degree is STEM-designated, the 24-month STEM OPT extension is not available to students completing the programme through ASU Online.
AACSB accreditation: The W. P. Carey School of Business is accredited by AACSB International, reflecting its commitment to business education standards.
Applied learning: Students complete practical projects through CIS 593 and SCM 593, applying their analytical skills to business challenges.
Industry relevance: The curriculum is developed by faculty from the departments of Information Systems and Supply Chain Management, with input from industry partners.

Reputation and Employability

Employment rate: The W. P. Carey School of Business reports that 95% of MS in Business Analytics students are employed within six months of graduation.
Industry connections: Students can connect with professionals and companies through graduate clubs, networking opportunities, case competitions and applied projects.
Career opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Computer Database Architect, IT Project Manager, Business Analytics Consultant, Financial Analyst, Marketing Analyst, Supply Chain Analyst and Predictive Analytics Specialist.
Career preparation: The programme develops technical and business skills that help graduates work with data, lead analytical projects and support strategic decisions across different industries.

Programme classification: This is a standalone Master of Science degree in Business Analytics. It offers four optional on-campus specialisation tracks: Cloud Computing and Tech Consulting, FinTech, Marketing Analytics and Supply Chain Analytics. These are specialisations within the degree, not separate master's programmes. The online format does not include these optional tracks.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Arizona State University Tempe, the Master of Science in Business Analytics program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that translates theoretical knowledge into practical skills. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities that allow students to engage with real-world data and analytics challenges. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students are well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic field of business analytics.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Data Analytics Labs: Students have access to specialized labs equipped with advanced software tools such as R, Python, Tableau, and SAS, enabling them to analyze complex datasets and develop actionable insights.

- Capstone Projects: The program includes a capstone project where students collaborate in teams to solve real business problems for industry partners, providing invaluable experience in applying analytics to real-world scenarios.

- Internship Opportunities: ASU has strong connections with various companies, offering students the chance to participate in internships that enhance their practical skills and expand their professional networks.

- Industry Partnerships: The program collaborates with leading organizations, allowing students to work on live projects and gain insights from industry experts.

- Field Trips and Workshops: Students participate in field trips to local businesses and workshops led by industry professionals, providing exposure to current trends and practices in business analytics.

- Research Institutes: Students can engage with research initiatives at the W. P. Carey School of Business, where they can contribute to innovative projects and gain experience in academic research.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: The ASU libraries offer extensive resources, including databases and journals specific to business analytics, supporting students in their research and projects.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in business analytics.

Embarking on this journey at ASU will empower you with the skills and experiences needed to excel in the fast-paced world of business analytics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Science in Business Analytics at Arizona State University (ASU) Tempe opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities in a rapidly growing field. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, and Operations Research Analyst, among others. With the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making in businesses, this program equips you with the skills needed to thrive in various industries.

Here’s what you can expect from the program and its outcomes:

- University Services: ASU offers robust career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events that connect students with industry leaders.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the Business Analytics program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after graduation. The average starting salary for graduates is around $85,000, reflecting the strong demand for analytics professionals.
- University–Industry Partnerships: ASU has established partnerships with leading companies such as Intel, Deloitte, and Amazon, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market and meets high educational standards.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have reported high levels of satisfaction with their education and career readiness, with many advancing to leadership roles within just a few years of completing their degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Science in Business Analytics, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Business Administration or a related field. This path can lead to academic positions, advanced research opportunities, or specialized roles in data science and analytics. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional certifications, such as Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) or Six Sigma, to enhance your expertise and marketability in the field.

Embarking on this journey at ASU Tempe not only prepares you for immediate career success but also sets the foundation for lifelong learning and advancement in the dynamic world of business analytics.