An MBA in business analytics trains students to use data to improve operations and decision-making processes for organizations. Degree-seekers learn to use information tools and applications for predictive and prescriptive purposes. This training gives graduates the skills to handle modern business analytics efforts across many industries.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that, from 2021-2031, employment for management roles that leverage business analytics will grow at a much faster rate than the national average for all occupations. The agency's projections also indicate that high-paying positions like management analyst and operations research analyst will grow at rates 2-5 times faster than the average.
This guide provides more information on this exciting degree and the available career paths after graduation. Explore a ranked list of the top five online MBA programs in business analytics for 2023.
2023's Best Online MBA Programs in Business Analytics
An online MBA in business analytics covers advanced leadership and analytical skills. Explore the top five programs in this discipline for 2023. We developed this list with the help of our comprehensive ranking methodology.
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Rank
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School
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Admissions Insights
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Outcomes by the Numbers
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1.
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL
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- Minimum Undergrad GPA: 3.0
- Admission Rate: 72%
- Average Student Age: 36
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- Online Enrollment: 5,407
- Tuition: $23,040 total
- Average GMAT Score: 637
- Mean Starting Salary: $91,500
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2.
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The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | Edinburg, TX
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- Minimum Undergrad GPA: 3.0
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- Online Enrollment:
- Tuition: $17,000
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3.
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California Institute of Advanced Management | Alhambra, CA
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- Online Enrollment: 91
- Tuition: $24,235 total
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4.
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University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD
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- Minimum Undergrad GPA: 3.0
- Average Student Age: 40
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5.
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Babson College | Wellesley, MA
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- Tuition: $89,550 total
- Average Salary (after 3 years): $163,004
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#1 The Top Online MBA Programs in Business Analytics
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1867 and the flagship school of the University of Illinois system, Illinois enrolls more than 56,000 students. The institution offers more than 250 undergraduate and graduate programs across 16 colleges.
iMBA in Business Analytics
Illinois' online iMBA strives to make business leadership and strategy skills more accessible to students. The program offers focus areas in global business challenges, mergers and acquisitions, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and business analytics. The business analytics concentration features core courses in business analytics with R, communicating with data, predictive analytics, and business functions.
MBA students have access to live lectures, a global network, and classroom engagement opportunities. Classes usually run in four or eight-week sessions, and students can take up to five years to complete the program. While fully online, the program has an optional campus retreat called iConverge every September, plus regional and global immersions.
Illinois' Affordability
With the total tuition at just over $23,000, Illinois' online MBA in business analytics offers a relatively affordable option for graduate business students. The school also provides need-based scholarships that cover up to 70% of tuition for some eligible learners.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Tuition: $320/credit
- Required Credits: 72
- Program Length: 2-3 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Submit application with personal information, residency details, and proposed program, plus transcripts, resume, application statements, and recommendation letters
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: Optional GRE or GMAT
- Cost: $70
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 The Top Online MBA Programs in Business Analytics
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Even though it opened in 2015, UTRGV is already one of the largest Hispanic-serving institutions in the country. The school enrolls more than 29,000 students in over 125 programs.
MBA in Business Analytics
UTRGV's MBA with a specialization in business analytics teaches students hands-on data analytic and problem-solving skills. Along with MBA foundation and core courses, learners take classes in enterprise analytics, data mining, and data warehousing. They also delve into complex data systems and machine learning.
UTRGV's online MBA classes run in seven-week accelerated sessions. Students taking two classes in each session can graduate in about 12 months with no campus requirements. The school's MBA Association connects students and alumni with networking and professional development opportunities during and after the program.
UTRGV's Affordability
UTRGV students pay $17,000 in tuition for the MBA. The accelerated nature of the online MBA reduces the amount of time spent in class, which helps cut costs. Learners can also apply for federal aid, scholarships, and work-study assistance.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Tuition: $472/credit
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 12 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Submit application that includes personal information, transcripts, and test scores, plus five short answer questions.
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE (waivers may be available)
- Cost: NA
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 The Top Online MBA Programs in Business Analytics
California Institute of Advanced Management
- Alhambra, CA
- 4 years
- Online
In 2011, CIAM opened its doors and began offering its innovative hybrid MBA programs. The school focuses entirely on providing accessible and engaging MBA education that combines practical and theoretical training.
MBA in Executive Management
Students in CIAM's hybrid MBA in executive management with a business analytics concentration gain the skills to support business decisions with data-based tools and systems. Along with core courses in strategic management, learners take specialized courses in business analytics databases, applied probability, and advanced analytics.
The hybrid program has nine on-campus weekend sessions each year, occurring every 6-8 weeks. Students encounter practical learning opportunities with computer-based business simulations, service learning projects, and consulting projects with live clients. The program also features capstone projects and optional internships.
CIAM's Affordability
The online MBA in business analytics has a total tuition of $24,000, but students can save in various ways. For example, CIAM offers free textbooks and scholarship and financial aid opportunities for all admitted students.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- Tuition: $667/credit
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 24 months
- Delivery Format: Hybrid
- Admissions
- Process: Submit application with personal information, transcripts from bachelor's degree, a resume documenting one year of professional experience, and a statement of purpose.
- GPA: NA
- Standardized Tests: NA
- Cost: $75
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#4 The Top Online MBA Programs in Business Analytics
University of Maryland-College Park
- College Park, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
In 1856, UMD became the first land-grant institution in Maryland. The school has more than 40,000 students and 300 programs throughout its 12 schools and colleges.
MBA in Information Systems and Business Analytics
The online MBA from UMD has a general track, plus five specialization options. In the information systems and business analytics concentration, students learn to manage and apply data in a business setting. They take required courses in data mining and predictive analytics, web analytics, and managing digital business.
Along with the online courses, UMD students complete two on-campus residencies, including a business simulation residency. The program incorporates live interaction with teachers and classmates, action learning projects, and an optional international business immersion. Students and graduates benefit from a network of over 66,000 alumni and global partnerships with some of the world's most reputable organizations.
UMD's Affordability
UMD students can get some help covering the total program tuition, which exceeds $95,000. They may qualify for financial awards, federal grants and loans, and corporate partnerships offering reduced tuition rates.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Tuition: $1,733/credit
- Required Credits: 54 credits
- Program Length: 24 months
- Delivery Format: Online and on-campus residencies (synchronous and asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Submit application with bachelor's degree transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and a resume demonstrating multiple years of experience, plus a personal essay. Candidates may need to interview as well.
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: Optional GMAT or GRE
- Cost: $75
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 The Top Online MBA Programs in Business Analytics
Babson College
- Wellesley, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Since its founding in 1919, Babson has graduated more than 43,000 alumni from its over 15 executive education programs. The school enrolls over 3,300 entrepreneurial-minded students in its online and on-campus classes.
MBA in Business Analytics
Babson College's online MBA features three fully online and four additional hybrid concentrations. The hybrid MBA in business analytics provides a foundation in data analytics and management, plus an application course and depth electives. The program centers around four learning goals: collaboration, problem-solving, leadership, and communication.
The online MBA in business analytics has a flexible schedule that allows learners to graduate in as little as 18 months. Babson's MBA students enjoy practical experience opportunities, such as managing the college's endowment fund, consulting global organizations, and joining the innovation lab or pitch competitions.
Babson's Affordability
With total tuition costs approaching $90,000, Babson offers several financial aid options to help students. The school has merit awards for both full-time and part-time learners, plus federal loans and grants.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Tuition: $1,990/course credit
- Required Credits: 45
- Program Length: 3-4 years
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (synchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Submit an application with bachelor's transcripts, short answer questions, and a recommendation letter, plus a resume. Candidates may submit a personal essay. They may also require an interview.
- GPA: NA
- Standardized Tests: NA
- Cost: $100
Percent Online Enrollment
79%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
Is an MBA in Business Analytics Worth It?
Prospective students may ask themselves, "Is an MBA in business analytics worth it?" For career-focused learners interested in the intersection of business and data analytics, these specialized MBA programs develop relevant skills.
General MBA programs focus on building broad, versatile skill sets. Curricula vary among business schools, but general MBAs usually cover:
- Accounting, economics, finance, and marketing essentials
- Human capital, operations, and supply chain management
- Leadership and organizational management
Business analytics MBAs often include similar core classes. However, they also emphasize specialized courses, balancing general and concentrated topics. Their stronger focus on business analytics may include required or elective courses in:
- Data analysis and management
- Business database development and management
- Cloud-based tools and data mining
MBAs in business analytics may also include capstone courses in which students apply specialized knowledge to case studies or theoretical exercises. For example, an enrollee may need to present a marketing or product pricing strategy specifically developed with data analysis tools and technologies.
Experts predict that emerging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools will affect business analytics in the near-term future. Business analytics MBAs equip students with strong foundations in technology-oriented enterprise management. Professionals with these backgrounds may find themselves with an advantage as businesses increasingly embrace AI and ML in the coming years.
What the Best Online Business Analytics MBAs Have in Common
Every online program offers unique program features and details. Some feature exclusive courses or internships, while others maintain strong reputations. However, most of the best online MBA programs in business analytics tend to share several characteristics.
They are accredited.
Accreditation indicates that a school or program meets high standards for student learning outcomes, academic rigor, and faculty quality. For more information on this designation, explore this page on accreditation.
They are affordable.
Tuition rates vary considerably among schools, but many of the best programs offer attractive rates to even the playing field for all applicants. Affordable tuition rates help ensure that programs receive applicants regardless of their financial standing. In addition to competitive tuition rates, many of the best programs offer many financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and grants.
They devote a lot of resources to online students.
The best online programs dedicate resources to aid distance learners, like academic support, career services, and 24/7 technical assistance. Before committing to an online program, research available resources for enrollees and graduates.
The business analytics curriculum is robust.
With access to a diverse curriculum, students can create a unique educational pathway that aligns with their interests and career goals. Prospective students should research a program's courses, internship opportunities, and projects to determine the right fit for their needs.
Their graduates go on to be successful.
High employment rates for graduates indicate that the program adequately prepares students for the workforce. Most schools publish this data on their websites, but candidates can contact institutions for graduation and employment rates.
What Jobs Can Business Analytics Degrees From Top-Ranked MBA Programs Get You?
After completing an online MBA in business analytics, graduates can pursue many advanced positions. Graduates may qualify for different management careers, along with analyst and consultant roles.
Graduates can consider careers as financial and risk analysts and budget and cost analysts, which both make median annual salaries of over $75,000. Students interested in these fields can improve their applications by choosing more financial courses while completing their MBA programs.
Source: BLS
Choosing Between Business Analytics Programs from Top Online Schools
When choosing an online MBA in business analytics, students should consider the program's reputation, graduate rates, and tuition costs. When researching the best online MBA in business analytics programs, try the following:
- Search for schools in your area.
- Compare student outcomes data.
- Estimate the expected costs of your programs.
- Check that classes will fit in with your schedule.
- Look for partnerships with local businesses.
- Talk to current students and recent alumni.
Why Should You Get an Online MBA?
Click through the following links to find out more about an online MBA and how it differs from a standard master's degree.
Why an Online MBA?
Comparing an MBA to a Master's
What to Expect With Online MBA Admissions
Through the following links, learners can examine the typical admissions processes for online MBAs to map out their application plans.
Online MBA Admissions
Financing Your Online MBA
Use the links below to learn more about financing an online MBA degree, including ways to reduce the cost of an education.
Financing Your MBA Degree
FAFSA Guide for MBA Students
Scholarships for MBA Students
Common Questions About Online MBAs in Business Analytics
Does an MBA in business analytics require coding?
Careers that combine business management with data analytics may not require professionals to write code themselves. However, a knowledge of database querying and coding languages may help with certain job duties.
Is an MBA in business analytics tough?
Students generally find MBAs challenging, but the valuable knowledge these programs deliver can reward dedicated learners. Degree-seekers with strong mathematical abilities and an interest in the subject matter can succeed academically and professionally.
What skills are required for an MBA in business analytics?
General skills that help business analytics professionals include an ability to visualize data and use data to solve problems on both large and small scales. Helpful technical skills include proficiency in SQL, R, and Python. Data analysis professionals use these languages to query databases and create custom data retrieval tools.
Why should I choose an MBA in Business Analytics?
Businesses increasingly use data analysis tools to inform their decision-making processes. Professionals able to harness these assets competitively may benefit from strong, ongoing demand as technology continues to affect the enterprise landscape.
