The Best Online MBA Programs in Business Intelligence of 2023

Updated September 26, 2023

Specialized MBAs in business intelligence have gained popularity in the "big data" era. Explore this study path's unique features as part of your MBA program and concentration research.

OnlineMBA.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Two women working together on a laptop Credit: Maskot / DigitalVision / Getty Images

An MBA in business intelligence blends business fundamentals and data analytics, helping students build practical and technical skills. Top online MBA programs in business analytics integrate coursework in statistics, data modeling, and database architecture.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 7% growth between 2021 and 2031 for business and financial occupations, which bodes well for professionals with an MBA in business intelligence. The BLS projects 715,100 new jobs over the next decade in this field.

To find out more about business intelligence programs and careers, scroll down for information on rankings, scholarships, and professional organizations.

The Top Online Business Intelligence MBAs of 2023

  1. Villanova University
    Location

    Villanova, PA

    Tuition

    $36958

    Steeped in Augustinian Catholic tradition, Villanova offers a 48-credit online MBA in business intelligence. Students complete fundamental, functional, and pillar coursework, plus electives and specialized classes. Nine credit hours of business intelligence classes explore international finance, global marketing, and international business management.

    Villanova's MBA degree incorporates nine hours of capstone requirements as well. Learners study global strategic management and complete practicums in social enterprise consulting and global business. During the global practicum, students participate in an international or domestic immersion.

    Students complete the MBA in business intelligence in two years. Program applicants submit a resume, two essays, and transcripts for consideration. Additional application materials include two letters of recommendation plus GRE or GMAT scores. Online students pay $1,350 per credit hour. Tuition covers on-campus residency and international immersion accommodations, though students must cover travel expenses.

    Other Concentrations

  2. Saint Joseph's University
    Location

    Philadelphia, PA

    Tuition

    $35344

    Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, SJU's top online MBA in business intelligence and analytics requires 33-53 credit hours, depending on learner background. Full-time students complete the program in as few as 12 months, while part-time learners do so in 24-30 months. Most eight-week online classes include at least one live session each week.

    The business intelligence and analytics MBA at SJU integrates 20 credit hours of foundation coursework, six credit hours of gateway classes, and 15 credit hours of core requirements. Students complete nine credit hours of specialized business intelligence courses to enhance their understanding of current information technologies and how they impact corporate decision-making and strategic planning.

    On-campus and online students pay $1,075 per credit hour tuition. Applicants submit transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement, plus GRE or GMAT scores.

    Other Concentrations

  3. Creighton University
    Location

    Omaha, NE

    Tuition

    $31317

    Founded as a Jesuit college in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1878, Creighton offers a 33-credit hour online MBA in business intelligence and analytics. Learners complete the program in just over two years. Core MBA coursework emphasizes leadership and organizational behavior; business, ethics, and society; business intelligence and analytics; and business policy and managerial action.

    Students without undergraduate degrees in business or previous related work experience must also complete 15 credit hours of functional core classes. Experienced business professionals and learners with bachelor's degrees in the discipline may substitute concentration coursework for functional core requirements as appropriate.

    Business intelligence and analytics learners complete at least nine hours of specialized courses in topics such as predictive analytics, data governance, and machine learning. To apply, students must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA in a bachelor's program and previous statistics coursework. Additional application requirements include a resume, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.

    Other Concentrations

  4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Location

    Chapel Hill, NC

    Tuition

    $11649

    The flagship institution of the University of North Carolina system, UNC-Chapel Hill holds distinction as the nation's first public university. It offers an online MBA in data analytics and decision making that requires 62 credit hours of coursework. Learners participate in two in-person immersive summits, as well, completing the degree in 18-36 months.

    UNC-Chapel Hill's top online MBA in data analytics and decision-making integrates 34 core credit hours with elective and concentration coursework. Data analytics and decision-making MBA students enhance their strategic business decisions by building critical data analysis, communication, and data-driven strategic skills.

    Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and two years' professional work experience. Application materials include two letters of recommendation, a personal interview, two essays, and GRE or GMAT scores for learners with fewer than six years of professional experience.

    Other Concentrations

  5. Carnegie Mellon University
    Location

    Pittsburgh, PA

    Tuition

    $30847

    Founded in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1900, CMU's top online MBA in business analytics blends synchronous and asynchronous content with in-person weekend sessions. Designed as a part-time degree, learners participate in weekly, live online classes, supplemented by pre-recorded lectures and online materials. Access Weekends bring cohorts of students together for classes, presentations, exams, and networking events.

    Students complete 48 credit hours of coursework, including required classes in modern data management and data mining. Learners choose from application courses in optimization, finance, and marketing. During their capstone in business analytics, students solve a real business problem using visualization, data mining, and optimization skills.

    Applicants submit a resume, one professional recommendation, an essay, and GMAT or GRE scores for consideration. Once enrolled, students may receive waivers for core coursework through exemption exams.

    Other Concentrations

  6. University of Scranton
    Location

    Scranton, PA

    Tuition

    $36725

    One of 27 Jesuit institutions of higher learning in the United States, Scranton offers an online MBA in business analytics through the Panuska College of Professional Studies and the Kania School of Management.

    Students complete 4-8 core courses in accounting, economics, and finance; operations, analytics, and information; and management and marketing. Twenty-one credit hours of business analytics coursework emphasizes data mining, business forecasting models, business simulation, and business database management systems. A capstone in responsibility, sustainability, and justice unites teams to students in a final project, linking sustainable development and financial success in the global marketplace.

    Scranton offers six start dates each year. Most learners earn a degree in 24 months. Applicants must hold an accredited bachelor's degree and demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA. They should also have completed at least three years of professional work experience for consideration.

    Other Concentrations

  7. Syracuse University
    Location

    Syracuse, NY

    Tuition

    $39005

    Situated in the hills of central New York, Syracuse offers an online MBA in business analytics that requires 54 credit hours. Students complete 36 core business classes in data analysis, managerial finance, leadership in organizations, and microeconomics.

    Business analytics MBA learners take 15 credit hours of elective courses in technical and data topics. Technical coursework emphasizes data analytics, database management, and data warehousing, while business electives focus on accounting, financial, and marketing analytics. During an additional three-credit hour domestic or international residency, learners gain practical experience in the discipline.

    Online students earn an MBA in business analytics in as few as 24 months. Admission requirements include two essays, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and GRE or GMAT scores. Applicants with five or more years of professional experience may receive a GRE or GMAT waiver.

    Other Concentrations

  8. Clemson University
    Location

    Clemson, SC

    Tuition

    $19508

    Clemson — located in Greenville, South Carolina — offers a part-time online MBA in business analytics. The degree requires 36-55 credit hours, depending on work experience and prior education. Students complete foundation, core, concentration, and internship requirements.

    Core and foundation coursework in Clemson's online business analytics MBA explore fundamentals of business function, ethics, and leadership. Nine hours of business analytics classes emphasize statistical modeling, application development, and data management and warehousing. Students also explore business forecasting techniques and applications.

    Clemson's online MBA in business analytics brings together learners two weekends each semester for in-person activities and networking opportunities. At the end of the two-year degree, students complete an internship to gain practical experience and apply program concepts.

    Online students pay $1,264 per credit hour tuition. Applicants submit a personal statement, GMAT scores, a resume, and letters of recommendation. They may have to complete interviews on a case-by-case basis.

    Other Concentrations

  9. Santa Clara University
    Location

    Santa Clara, CA

    Tuition

    $41545

    Offered through SCU's Leavey School of Business, the online MBA in data science and business analytics requires 70 credit hours of coursework. The MBA core curriculum integrates 42 credit hours of classes in accounting, finance, management, and marketing.

    Students take a required course in challenges in leading and managing strategic change, alongside 26 credit hours of elective and concentration courses. Data science and business analytics classes emphasize analysis of customers and markets, business intelligence and data warehousing, and econometrics for business analytics.

    The online MBA at SCU brings cohorts of students to campus for weekend networking and learning opportunities. Through SCU's Silicon Valley Professional experience, online learners gain access to innovative progress-tracking and networking tools.

    SCU's online curriculum blends five- and 10-week classes, allowing students to begin the program at several points each year. Applicants need at least three years of professional work experience. Application materials include three essays, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and GRE or GMAT scores.

    Other Concentrations

  10. St. Bonaventure University
    Location

    Saint Bonaventure, NY

    Tuition

    $21613

    Established as the first Franciscan university in the United States in 1858, SBU occupies 500 acres in southwest New York. SBU offers an online MBA in business analytics, which integrates 39 credit hours of foundation, business core, and concentration coursework.

    Learners earn an online MBA in business analytics at SBU in as little as 20 months. Foundation classes emphasize quantitative management, accounting and finance, and economics. Twelve credit hours of core business courses in organizational behavior, business policy, and management accompany business analytics coursework in data visualization, project management, financial modeling, and marketing analytics.

    Applicants to SBU's online business analytics MBA submit a resume, transcripts, and GRE or GMAT scores. Individuals with a minimum 3.3 GPA from previous college coursework, or two years of relevant experience and a minimum 3.0 GPA, receive GRE/GMAT waivers.

    Other Concentrations

Online MBA Programs for You

Grow your career, leadership, and business acumen with an accredited online MBA program.

What Is an MBA in Business Intelligence?

An MBA in business intelligence emphasizes data analysis and reporting. Business intelligence professionals use their findings to make effective, efficient business decisions.

Specific business intelligence MBA curricula vary, but all programs train learners to gather and organize data, analyze quantitative and qualitative information, and develop new systems and procedures based on the results. With an MBA in business intelligence, individuals can thrive as management, financial, or market research analysts.

Management analysts develop plans for businesses and organizations to improve profits, reduce costs, and increase efficiency. Financial analysts review economic and business records and trends to guide investment decisions, while market research analysts assess market conditions to identify consumer demand, pricing, and sales trends.

Is an MBA in Business Intelligence Worth It?

General MBA programs focus on broad and transferable skills. They offer versatility but lack specialization. MBAs in business intelligence concentrate specifically on analytical skills that help companies identify opportunities and gain advantages over competitors.

In the 21st century, MBA programs in business intelligence have adopted an increasing focus on data science and analytics. Some such programs have science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) designations. This reflects their core focus on applied technical and mathematical concepts.

As a field, business analytics has bright growth prospects. Fortune Business Insights projects that the $271.8 billion global business analytics market of 2022 will nearly triple in value to $745.15 billion by 2030.

Tuition costs for MBA business intelligence programs vary widely. Some programs charge less than $1,000 per credit, while other programs cost more than $80,000 per year. However, business intelligence MBAs generally deliver a strong return on educational investment. According to Payscale, professionals with an MBA earned an average annual salary of $95,000 as of April 2023.

Why Should You Get an Online MBA in Business Intelligence?

Building business and technical expertise, an online MBA in business intelligence prepares learners to make informed, ethical, and profitable decisions. Business intelligence combines data collection and analytics with coursework in economics, management, and occupational leadership.

An MBA in business intelligence facilitates business careers in industries such as healthcare, finance, and information technology. Experts in business intelligence may also pursue careers as entrepreneurs. Many business intelligence professionals work as consultants, brought in by companies and organizations to provide objective analysis.

With an MBA in business intelligence, entry-level business professionals can gain a competitive advantage within the field. According to Payscale, entry-level management analysts earned average annual salaries of just over $57,200 as of March 2023, while their experienced counterparts earned base salaries of more than $85,200.

Similarly, an online business intelligence master's degree can open up career opportunities in computer science and information technology. Payscale reports that general data analysts earn average annual salaries exceeding $65,000 in 2023, while business intelligence analysts earn more than $72,000.

What Can You Do With an MBA in Business Intelligence?

Data Analyst

According to Payscale, data analysts earned average salaries of $65,110 as of March 2023. Data analysts apply data collection, assessment, and reporting techniques to quantitative and qualitative information. With knowledge and skills applicable across economic sectors, data analysts may work for corporations, organizations, or educational institutions.

Data analysts gather information by conducting interviews, administering surveys, and taking polls. They typically store data in computer databases and enterprise data warehouses, interpreting and reporting their findings based on client goals.

Business Intelligence Analyst

Business intelligence analysts focus on data related to business management. Within an organization, business intelligence analysts design models to collect data about departmental activities.

Business intelligence analysts work closely with managers to gather data and, after analysis, develop plans for more efficient collaboration among organizational entities. Business intelligence analysts exhibit technical proficiency with query and reporting analysis tools.

Payscale reports that entry-level business intelligence analysts earned an average annual salary of nearly $62,000 as of March 2023. Meanwhile, senior-level business intelligence analysts earn more than $94,000 per year.

Database Administrator

The BLS projects positions for database administrators to grow by 9% from 2021-2031. These professionals earned a median salary of $101,000 per year as of May 2021. These professionals store, organize, and assess data using specialized software programs and applications.

Database administrators create databases for personal information related to finance, healthcare, or manufacturing. They monitor permissions and train database users. Their job duties also involve maintenance of database security and efficiency, including the performance of upgrades and updates as needed.

Online MBA in Business Intelligence Curriculum

Business administration curricula vary by program, as do degrees with business intelligence concentrations. Accompanied by classes in statistics, data analytics, and database architecture, an online MBA in business intelligence incorporates core business and technology courses.

  • Data Analysis and Statistics: Coursework in data analysis and statistics trains students to organize, analyze, and interpret data. Learners gain a working knowledge of machine learning, probability, quantitative methods, and randomization techniques.
  • Business Performance Management: A course in business performance management focuses on techniques and processes to meet organizational goals. Students learn to link employee tasks with the overall mission of an organization. They develop tools and methods to coach employees and manage workers at all performance levels.
  • Leadership and Organizational Behavior: Leadership and organizational behavior classes equip students with the tools to motivate employees, communicate effectively, and shape organizational culture. This course explores the dynamics of organizations, decision-making in the workplace, innovation and change management, and strategic planning for success.

See More Top MBA Programs

How to Choose the Right Online MBA in Business Intelligence Program

When choosing an MBA in business intelligence program, learners should take several factors into consideration. Aspiring professionals should carefully assess program length, cost, location, and curricula to choose the best MBA for their needs.

MBA programs include 30-45 credit hours. Full-time learners typically earn a master's degree in two years, while part-time students usually complete coursework in 3-5 years. Accelerated MBA programs allow students to earn a degree in as few as 18 months.

Individuals working full time or with busy schedules benefit from the convenience and flexibility of an online MBA in business intelligence. Learners who seek an MBA on a shorter timeline can take multiple classes at a time. Online classes also allow part-time students to complete courses at a slower pace.

Many colleges and universities with online MBAs in business intelligence offer flat-rate tuition. By paying a set price each semester, students may take as many courses as possible, shortening their time to complete the degree and lowering costs simultaneously. Online programs also allow students to avoid on-campus room and board expenses and commuting costs.

Business professionals earning an MBA can often complete practical and research activities at their place of work. By blending career and education, business intelligence students can apply academic knowledge directly to the workplace while completing internship, project, or thesis requirements.

Learners should also check the accreditation status of an MBA in business intelligence. Colleges and universities maintain national or regional accreditation; individual degrees and programs may also hold specialized accreditation. Accrediting bodies for business degrees include the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Professional Organizations for Business Intelligence

As a field that blends business and technology, business intelligence facilitates collaboration and communication between industries in both sectors. Professional organizations unite business intelligence students and practitioners through networking opportunities, online communities, and annual events.

Professional organizations also offer job listings, career advice, continuing education programs, and news updates about the business intelligence field.

AACSB unites business students, educators, and professionals from around the world to improve the quality of business education. Members receive association publications, access to career resources, and accreditation updates. AACSB also holds more than 90 conferences and seminars annually. Dedicated to building a better digital world through data, the DAA seeks to standardize practices, terminology, and certification in the field. The DAA offers professional development, career resources, and networking opportunities to members. IIA helps business leaders foster effective analytics. Member benefits include advisory services, training, and research networks. IIA empowers analytics leaders to grow by providing unbiased data and assessments to healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and retail professionals. IIBA supports the expanding business analysis field through certification and professional development programs. Members gain access to events, mentorship opportunities, and business data analytics resources. Other available benefits include quarterly publications, webinars, and best practices content. NBMBAA promotes diversity and inclusion in the business world by advocating for underrepresented students, entrepreneurs, and professionals. With 39 local chapters in North America, NBMBAA offers online resources including webinars, professional certification courses, and pillar programs. NBMBAA's three pillars emphasize education and career, leadership and professional development, and entrepreneurship.

Common Questions About Online MBA Programs in Business Intelligence

Does business intelligence need math?

While business intelligence professionals use mathematics, their roles do not always require extensive or complex calculations. However, the vast majority of successful business management professionals have strong math and numeracy skills. Some MBAs in business intelligence and analytics carry STEM designations, indicating the importance of mathematics proficiency in the field.

Is an MBA in Business intelligence good?

Market researchers from Fortune Business Insights predict the value of the global business intelligence industry to grow by about 275% from 2022-2030. As such, experts project that MBA graduates with business analytics concentrations will benefit from strong labor market demand.

Is business intelligence a high-paying job?

According to Payscale, professionals with MBAs in business analytics earned an average salary of $84,000 per year as of April 2023.

Is business intelligence a stressful job?

Business intelligence roles can be high stress due to their importance to company success. However, professional environments differ and the stressfulness of a given business intelligence role depends heavily on workplace culture.

Recommended Reading

Search Programs by Concentration

View schools and degrees from across the country.
Find the right program to advance your career.