Master of Science in Business Analytics

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Washington University in St Louis

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Business Analytics at Washington University in St. Louis’s Olin Business School prepares students to transform large datasets into actionable business insights through technical training and practical problem-solving. This three-semester, STEM-designated program combines programming, statistical analysis, machine learning, and business strategy, allowing students to specialize in areas such as accounting analytics, customer analytics, financial technology analytics, healthcare analytics, or supply chain analytics.

Curriculum Structure

Semester 1: Core Analytics and Technical Foundations

Students begin by developing the technical and analytical skills needed to interpret data and solve business problems. Core courses include Introduction to Python and Data Science, Machine Learning Tools for Prediction of Business Outcomes, and Database Design and SQL, introducing students to programming, predictive modeling, data management, and database querying. Additional subjects such as Data Visualization for Business Insights, Text Mining, and Big Data and Cloud Computing help students understand how to process complex datasets and communicate findings effectively.

Semester 2: Specialized Analytics and Business Applications

Students build on their core knowledge by focusing on one of five concentrations: Accounting Analytics, Customer Analytics, Financial Technology Analytics, Healthcare Analytics, or Supply Chain Analytics. Depending on their chosen pathway, they may study subjects such as AI-Driven Customer Analytics, Financial Management, Health Analytics, or Operations Analytics. Students also strengthen their ability to make evidence-based decisions through courses such as A/B Testing in Business and Social Science and Prescriptive Analytics, while developing professional communication skills for presenting analytical findings to business stakeholders.

Semester 3: Concentration Specialization and Experiential Learning

In the final semester, students deepen their expertise through concentration-specific courses, electives, and required experiential learning. Depending on their chosen area, they may take Strategic Cost Analysis in Accounting Analytics, Marketing Research Analytics in Customer Analytics, Fintech: Methods and Practice in Financial Technology Analytics, Health Analytics in Healthcare Analytics, or Operations Analytics in Supply Chain Analytics. Students also complete an approved experiential course, such as a practicum, industry project, or internship, applying their analytical skills to real organizational challenges. The full-time program requires 39 credits over three semesters.

Focus Areas

Accounting analytics, customer analytics, financial technology analytics, healthcare analytics, supply chain analytics, machine learning, Python programming, R programming, SQL, data visualization, text mining, big data, cloud computing, predictive analytics, prescriptive analytics, statistical analysis, business experimentation, strategic data storytelling, business communication, and experiential learning.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to analyze complex datasets, build predictive models, and use statistical and computational methods to support business decisions. They gain practical experience with Python, R, SQL, data visualization, machine learning, text mining, and cloud-based data tools. Through their chosen concentration, students learn to apply analytics to specific business functions, communicate findings clearly, and develop solutions to organizational problems through practical projects and other experiential learning opportunities.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Master of Science in Business Analytics is STEM-designated, reflecting its focus on quantitative methods, technology, and analytical problem-solving. Eligible international graduates may qualify for an additional 24 months of STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) beyond the standard post-completion OPT period, subject to U.S. immigration regulations and individual eligibility. Olin Business School is accredited by AACSB International, and Washington University in St. Louis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. These accreditations support the institution's academic quality but do not represent a separate professional license for business analytics graduates.

Reputation (Employability and Career Outcomes)

Olin Business School provides career coaching, networking opportunities, career fairs, workshops, and experiential learning through its Center for Career Engagement. The university's 2024 Specialized Master's Employment Report lists business and data analytics as the leading employment function for Master of Science in Business Analytics graduates, accounting for 28.9% of reported employment functions. Financial services was the largest reported employment industry at 21.7%, followed by consulting at 13.3% and manufacturing at 10.8%. These figures illustrate the range of career directions pursued by graduates; they are employment distribution figures, not a guarantee of an individual student's outcome.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Washington University in St. Louis, the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSA) 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 fast-paced world of business analytics.

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

- Data Analytics Lab: A dedicated space equipped with advanced software and tools for data analysis, including Python, R, and Tableau, allowing students to work on real datasets.
- Capstone Projects: Collaborate with industry partners on capstone projects that tackle actual business problems, providing invaluable experience and networking opportunities.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages internships with leading companies, giving students the chance to apply their skills in a professional setting and gain insights into the industry.
- Group Projects: Engage in collaborative projects that foster teamwork and communication skills, essential for success in the business analytics field.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to local businesses and organizations, offering a firsthand look at how analytics is applied in various industries.
- Access to Libraries and Research Institutes: Utilize the extensive resources available at the university’s libraries and research institutes, which support data-driven research and learning.
- Workshops and Seminars: Attend workshops and seminars led by industry experts, providing exposure to the latest trends and technologies in business analytics.

These experiential learning components are designed to ensure that you not only learn the theory behind business analytics but also gain the practical skills necessary to excel in your career.

Choosing the MSA program at Washington University in St. Louis means you’re not just earning a degree; you’re preparing for a successful career in business analytics with the support of a robust experiential learning framework.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSA) at Washington University in St. Louis equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in a rapidly evolving data-driven landscape. Alumni of this program often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Consultant, and Analytics Manager. With a strong foundation in analytics and business strategy, graduates are well-prepared to tackle complex challenges in various industries:

- University Services for Employment: The Olin Business School offers dedicated career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events with industry leaders.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the MSA program have an impressive employment rate of over 90% within three months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $85,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Washington University has established partnerships with leading companies such as Deloitte, Accenture, and Mastercard, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world projects.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MSA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles at top firms, with many advancing to leadership positions within just a few years of graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MSA program, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Business Analytics or a related field. This path can open doors 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, which can enhance your expertise and marketability in the field.

By choosing the MSA at Washington University, you're not just earning a degree; you're investing in a future filled with opportunities and growth in the dynamic world of business analytics.