Online MSBA Programs: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Options

Online MSBA programs are key to understanding what the world’s most successful companies have in common: they excel in using data to make wise business decisions. Of course, this isn’t just chance— it’s evident in every new product, unique advertising campaign, and improved user experience we encounter. These are the outcomes of exhaustive data analytics. To effectively use data, organizations depend on specialized professionals skilled in finding trends, employing innovative technologies, forecasting outcomes, and interpreting insights.

If you’re interested in playing this vital role, consider pursuing an online Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA). This degree, blending business and STEM disciplines, not only prepares you for rewarding and lucrative careers, such as a business or data analyst, but also positions you as a critical data gatekeeper. Our exploration in this article includes diving into some of the nation’s best online MSBA programs. With this in mind, the next step is deciding on the degree type that perfectly aligns with your goals. Let’s delve deeper.

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Online MSBA Programs: Which is Right For You?

There are multiple types of online MSBA degrees available. Thanks to a variety of choices, you can find the perfect match. You must decide between a Master of Science (MS) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Both degree types will sharpen your business expertise while harnessing soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. However, both types have different nuances. Also consider if you prefer business analytics versus data analytics in choosing your degree.

Online Master’s in Business Analytics

An MSBA will often hone your skills in technology, languages, and data. Sure, students will often take foundational business courses. However, the emphasis of this degree will lean into data and analytics. Rather than learn how to run a business, graduates will become coveted data translators. This degree shows students how to extract and use data to benefit organizations. You will review immense data systems and learn how to articulate their meaning. Courses teach descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics and often includes projects and hands-on learning. Prior work experience isn’t as necessary with an MSBA and you can pursue a future career as a business analyst.

Online MBA with Concentration in Business Analytics

An MBA is the one of the highest business degrees in the land. Therefore, it is ideal if your goal is to run a business. Candidates with prior industry experience would benefit most from this degree, as a matter of fact. Graduate students usually receive core finance, marketing, accounting, and operations management classes. In doing so, they boost their foundational knowledge and gain a complete understanding of all facets of business. This degree typically takes two years to finish. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared to lead a business or organization. MBA students can specialize or take electives in business analytics. Doing so will allow you to improve business decisions using data. It amplifies your skills to increase job employment prospects.

Online Master’s in Data Analytics

You may encounter data analytics and business analytics concentrations during your degree research. If you are asking – is business analytics a STEM major? – the answer is yes. Both data analytics and business analytics are STEM degrees. Both are highly technical. They teach students to leverage data, immerse them in multiple programming languages, and grow expertise in different frameworks.

A data analytics degree will prepare you best for a future career as a data analyst. These professionals are experts in collecting, managing, and understanding data to support businesses. Most students in this concentration received a STEM-oriented undergrad degree, due to its technical nature. Coursework will include data mining, machine learning, and big data.

6 Best Online MSBA Programs

1. Jacksonville University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, AACSB
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $49,875

   Set yourself apart with a dual MBA/MSABA degree from Jacksonville University (JU). In fact, a dual degree helps graduates broaden their expertise and qualify for more high-paying jobs. With this advanced degree, you will transform into a data and business leader. Their MS and MBA in Applied Business Analytics online will challenge students. It will inspire you to grow, harness your decision-making abilities, and gain confidence in making impactful organizational decisions.

   Online coursework brings education home rather than traveling to lecture halls. JU offers intimate small sizes with a committed faculty. Collaboration and open discussions are part of the program’s DNA. Meanwhile, AACSB accreditation is an invaluable indicator of the program’s academic quality. You can gain expertise in data visualization, data mining, and project management, while becoming well-versed in essential programming languages such as Python, SQL, and R.

   A dual degree sounds like a big commitment, but JU allows for cross-crediting. Those credits will validate for both degrees, thus reducing the time needed to graduate. As a result, candidates will only need to fulfill 57 credits to earn their competitive dual degree. Each course is industry-relevant. Students will complete a degree segment that involves foundational, degree, elective, and capstone courses. Sample courses include Fundamentals of Quantitative Methods, Applied Managerial Analytics, plus Strategic Marketing in a Digital Economy. The program’s curriculum is immense, so students gain in-depth knowledge of many focus areas.

   Jacksonville University students may benefit from resources like the Phins Up Mentor program. It’s an opportunity for all students, including distance learners, to network with their peers. Utilizing this program can give students community support as they consider future careers. Moreover, Jacksonville University is a member of the Yellow Ribbon Program.

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   Master of Science in Applied Business Analytics / MBA (Dual Degree)

    

2. Fontbonne University

   Accreditation: HLC
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $27,900

   Fontbonne University has a rich 100-year history of helping students follow their passions. Boasting “Soar Higher” as its institutional motto, the MBA in Applied Business Analytics lives true to this mission. Students who enroll in this online program receive tools to thrive as future business professionals. Also, Fontbonne graduates have a 93% career outcome rate from 2021 to 2022. In other words, only seven percent of graduates were still seeking employment six months after earning their degree.

   Fontonne educates from a Christian worldview and invites candidates from all walks of life to apply. Individuals with marketing, management, finance, or accounting backgrounds are encouraged to join the program. As an online student at Fontbonne, you can access multiple academic services. For instance, career counseling, tutoring, and library services are available.

   Graduates will have the ability to improve their future employer’s outcomes. Problem solving, data analytics, business analytics, and predictive thinking are just a few areas of expertise you will develop. You will learn about communication, writing, globalization, team-building, and ethics. Although theory is a fundamental part of the degree, much of the program’s structure is project-based.

   This MBA is fully online, with multiple start dates each year, so students can begin when they are ready. There’s also a ten-to-one student-to-teacher ratio. Consequently, students can readily connect with faculty, enriching their experience. Each course in this curriculum spans eight weeks, and the degree comprises 12 dynamic courses in total, amounting to 36 credit hours. To begin with, you’ll complete 18 units of Business Core material, followed by six Applied Business Analytics courses. Example classes include Game Theory and Business Strategy as well as Data Visualization and Strategy. Additionally, students may accelerate their degree by taking specialized coursework during their undergrad studies.

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   Could not look up degree for "Fontbonne University (School Closing)" using "347154"!

    

3. American Public University System

   Accreditation: HLC, ACBSP
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $17,850

   If you want an affordable and flexible option for your online MSBA, consider American Public University (APU). APU is a Yellow Ribbon Program school. It boasts zero application and transfer credit evaluation fees. Coupled with a reasonable $425 cost per credit, this is one of the best online MSBA programs. Even though it’s financially accessible, this program also provides academic quality. The program’s ACBSP accreditation proves that students will graduate equipped to succeed in the professional world. Their MS in Applied Business Analytics gives candidates an opportunity to develop skills like research methods, analytics, problem-solving, data collection, management, and business intelligence.

   Unlike many online MSBA programs, APU offers monthly class start dates for new students. You can begin the degree on your terms. The program consists of 42 credit hours. Each class is 8 to 16 weeks in length. All in all, you will complete 13 courses in order to earn your advanced degree. In addition, courses are asynchronous. Despite its fully virtual structure, APU does a good job of keeping students connected. Hence, it offers multiple student community organizations that are online.

   Once you start your academic journey, you will take a wide range of courses. Besides core requirements like Corporate Finance and Managerial Economics, students can customize their learning pathway with classes in Text Mining or Predictive Analytics. The final Analytics Project connects all skills and expertise gained throughout the degree. Each degree element is hands-on. Throughout your studies, you will manage numerous project-based assignments. These mirror real-world business situations.

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   Master of Science in Applied Business Analytics

    

4. Boston University

   Accreditation: NECHE & AACSB
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $37,925

   Boston University Metropolitan College (BU MET) has one of the best MSBA online programs. Their online degree creates future leaders who are experts in using data to improve businesses. In short, students can expect a practical degree that provides many opportunities to develop in-demand skills. They’ll be immersed in the “5 Vs of big data” which includes value of information, volume, variety, velocity, and veracity.

   BU MET offers an advanced online learning environment to help its students grow. You gain access to qualified instructors, excellent career counseling, and a personalized learning ecosystem. Class sizes are typically no more than fifteen students per professor. This format builds relationships among peers and creates simplified communication with professors.

   There are 40 credits worth of coursework. Students will complete core, specialization, and elective courses. When you enroll in BU MET’s online MSBA, you will access a deep catalog of engaging material. Business Analytics Foundations, Enterprise Risk Analytics, and Data Science with Python are just a handful available. The curriculum includes two free analytics labs for programming languages like R, cloud-based tools, and numerous software applications. It generally takes between three and five semesters to graduate.

   This MS business analytics online is flexible – students can choose between online or hybrid classrooms. Also, it is possible to enroll in this master of science in business analytics online as a part-time student. An alternative route to a master’s is BU MET’s Certificate-To-Degree Pathway. Candidates who aren’t ready to fully commit to the program can earn a certificate that can transition into a graduate degree.

   BU MET’s generous part-time tuition makes this one of the best online MSBA programs. In fact, part-time students can earn this advanced degree for about half the usual cost. If you maintain a 3.0 GPA, you can apply for a merit-based scholarship to reduce tuition by as much as $5,000. BU MET participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

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   Master of Science in Applied Business Analytics

    

5. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

   Accreditation: NECHE
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $53,130

   Next, we have Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), an institution with over 150 years of experience in developing competitive STEM experts. In fact, WPI has nationally ranked online MBA programs. Their online MBA program is robust – it has seven focus areas plus 18 available specializations. This degree gives students opportunities to follow their passions. At WPI you can earn an online MBA with a specialization in Applied Analytics. With zero in-person requirements, students can forge a path to an exciting career from the comfort of home. The degree can be either synchronous or asynchronous in its delivery.

   A project-based curriculum has career-oriented students in mind. It will help you build confidence in each capacity you develop. Also, it boosts collaboration between peers who are driven to grow. As you advance through your studies, you will learn to lead teams, make tangible impacts on organizations, and use data to make informed decisions. Students will also gain a strong foundation in tech skills. These aptitudes translate across multiple industries, making graduates competitive in whichever field they pursue. WPI’s faculty has a strong reputation and offers students a lot of valuable knowledge. WPI is part of the Yellow Ribbon Program that supports veteran students.

   WPI’s master’s in business analytics online consists of 36 credit hours. It takes approximately two years to meet all graduation requirements. Applied Analytics specialized coursework includes Introduction to Data Science, Optimization for Business Analytics, and Business Intelligence. In addition, students can choose between 50 elective courses. This depth allows students to build a unique degree. Each student will complete integrative STEM and foundational business courses. At the end of the program, graduate candidates will deliver a capstone project.
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   Master of Science in Business Analytics

    

6. University of Charleston

   Accreditation: HLC, ACBSP
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $20,470

   University of Charleston (UCWV) offers a master’s in business analytics online that tackles industry-relevant topics. This program is flexible and designed not only for students in quantitative fields, but other backgrounds as well. Graduates can lead in the modern business world. As an MSBDA candidate, you will receive expert instruction and consistent student support. Expect to develop leadership, business technology, critical thinking, and analytical skills. During your studies, you’ll explore the world of big data, data science, and artificial intelligence. UCWV’s School of Business has recognition from the Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). It is a Yellow Ribbon Program school.

   You can either take online or hybrid courses. Equally important, students can choose between one or two classes per term. This flexibility is especially beneficial if you are working or have a family. Full-time graduate students can finish all degree requirements in one year. In essence, within 12 months of starting this master business analytics online, you may start looking for a new rewarding career.

   This 30-credit program consists of ten dynamic classes that are 7 weeks in duration. Academic excellence is a principal element of this MSBDA program; students must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Students will learn and become adept in each subject. As a result, you may qualify for more competitive jobs. As a UCWV student, you will complete Business Forecasting for Analytics, Machine Learning, plus Data, AI, Ethics, and Leadership classes. The final step before graduation involves the completion of a Business Analytics Capstone. Prior knowledge and scholarship get into one comprehensive project related to a topic of professional interest.

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   Master of Science in Business & Data Analytics

    

What to Expect From an Online MSBA Program

Admission Requirements

The journey toward an online MSBA begins with meeting the essential admission requirements. Most master’s in business analytics online have similar admission criteria. These generally include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a resume, official transcripts, a letter of intent, and letters of recommendation. Bachelor’s degrees should be in a related field like business, finance, or economics. Meanwhile, the best online business analytics programs will likely require a minimum undergrad GPA of 2.5 or 3.0. Applicants may need proof of specific coursework, including statistics, and International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency.

Accreditation

Before you choose an online MSBA, do your research. It’s imperative when earning an MSBA degree online that it come from an accredited institution. Programs may also hold accreditation. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) are highly respected. Accreditation is based on indicators like student learning outcomes, teaching excellence, and relevant subject matter.

Program Overview & Structure

Typical Master of Science (MS) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs in business analytics offered online comprise about 30 to 40 credit hours. Generally, full-time students can complete their degrees within one to two years. If you’re considering a dual degree, anticipate a higher credit load and a longer time to completion.

While most coursework can be completed fully online, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements of your chosen program. Occasionally, certain components such as seminars, labs, or workshops might require a residency.

Learning Experience & Coursework

Online programs offer numerous forms to suit different student needs. You can choose to take asynchronous classes, which offer the utmost flexibility without scheduled lectures. On the other hand, synchronous classes, provide set times for live, virtual sessions that encourage direct engagement with professors and peers. To that end, delivery styles can vary depending on the program you select.

Regardless of the format, you’ll be engaging with the institution’s learning hub. This online platform serves as a central point for forum participation, assignment submissions, lecture access, and course material retrieval, all accessible from any internet-connected device.

Generally, courses range from 7 to 16 weeks. Since there’s a wide array of concentrations, specializations, and program structures, the coursework in each program is unique. Core, specialization, and elective courses are part of the curriculum, with examples in MBA programs including Marketing Strategy, Financial Management, and Organizational Behavior. For MS programs, courses like Data Mining for Business or Analytics for Big Data are common, with many classes embracing a project-based approach.

The culmination of your study will often be a capstone project, an all-encompassing endeavor that starts from day one and incorporates knowledge from the entire course. This critical project usually spans at least a semester for topic selection, followed by another for preparation and execution.

Engaging in an online MSBA program is undoubtedly challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Not only will you gain valuable, in-demand skills, but you’ll also expand your professional network. Earning this advanced degree is not just an academic achievement; it paves the way for numerous exciting job opportunities, which we will explore later in this article. But first, let’s explore the best online MSBA programs.

Jobs & Salaries With an Online MSBA Degree

If you’re considering an online Master’s in Business Analytics, understanding the potential career outcomes may help in your decision. To be sure, an online MSBA opens doors to stable and lucrative jobs in various sectors like business, STEM, healthcare, education, and transportation. Here’s a brief look at some career prospects, according to 2022 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Management analysts in various business sectors command a median annual income of $95,290 and are projected to experience a 10% job growth over the next decade. While certifications like those from the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) aren’t required, they do help candidates stand out. Analytics consultants and business intelligence analysts are related roles in this field.

Data scientists earned a $103,500 median annual salary. This career has a 35% ten-year projected employment increase. As you gain experience, you may grow to become a data science manager to become a top earner. The highest 10% of data scientists earned $174,790 per year.

Data Analysts fall under the operations research analyst umbrella. They earn a median yearly $85,720 salary. Job growth projects to increase 23% between now and 2032.

Earning $120,000 annually, Business Development Managers are expected to see a 6% increase in jobs over the next decade. While not essential, certifications can enhance a candidate’s profile in this field.

Graduates from the best online MSBA programs also fit into other high-paying, data-driven positions. Here are some adjacent careers with their 2022 median annual salaries: IT director ($164,070), marketing manager($138,730), human resources manager ($130,000), or even chief executive officer ($189,520). Certifications, such as those from the Human Resource Standards Institute (HRCI), though not mandatory, can provide a competitive edge.

Start an Online MSBA Today!

You’ve taken the first step toward elevating your career. With the insights provided in this Get Educated article, you’re now well-equipped to make informed decisions regarding your future. The best online MSBA programs we’ve explored promise not only a substantial return on your investment but also the potential to profoundly impact both your professional path and your employer’s success.

Besides academic achievement, this degree is a gateway to a variety of lucrative and in-demand career opportunities. Fields like data science and business analysis are just the beginning. With dedication and expertise, even higher management roles, such as CEO, are attainable. Remember, the journey to transformation and success begins with a single, well-informed step – and you’re already on your way.