Master of Science in Business Analytics

Build the skill set necessary to analyze large data sets and generate insights through techniques in data visualization, statistical modeling and data mining. Develop a holistic approach to the field and build expertise in data management, machine learning and predictive analytics, grounded by a strong business foundation. STEM-designated program.

Why choose UIC Business Heading link

  • Best Value Our No.1 Best Value ranking in Illinois gives you a high-quality education with an affordable investment.

  • Flexibility Take your classes online, in-person or the right combination for your life.

  • Powerful Network Our convenient location and 52,000 strong network gives you access to the companies and alumni to help advance your career.

Degree-at-a-Glance Heading link

Completion Time 1-2 Years
Credit Hours 32
Degree Type AACSB-accredited Master of Science in Business Analytics
Course Delivery In-person or Online

Why Earn Your Master's in Business Analytics at UIC Business? Heading link

  • Fast-Paced, Flexible Program
    Complete the 32-credit program in as little as one year full-time or over multiple years part-time. Tailor your curriculum with a wide range of electives to match your career or company goals—all while maintaining the flexibility to balance full-time work.
  • Unique Format
    Blend business expertise with technical skills, systems thinking, and leadership development. Gain global insights and prepare for roles such as supply analyst, procurement analyst, quality officer, or management positions across industries like manufacturing, logistics, retail, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.
  • Experiential Learning
    The MSBA includes a capstone experience providing you with the opportunity to work with a client organization to analyze a business issue and develop analytics solutions.

MSBA Careers and Outcomes Heading link

Opportunities in business analytics and AI are expanding rapidly, with exponential growth expected over the next decade. Our program prepares you for roles such as analysts and data scientists in areas like accounting, finance, digital marketing, supply chain management, AI applications, revenue optimization, and risk management. The program also opens pathways to managerial roles for working professionals. Recent MSBA graduate representative titles include:

  • Data Analyst
  • Data Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • Product Manager
  • Chief Data Officer
  • 93 % of recent MSBA graduates were employed within six months of graduation

  • 84 k Average Starting Salary

Earning Your Degree Heading link

Credits and Courses

The MSBA program is 32 credit hours in length composed of 16 credits of required courses and 16 electives.

Core curriculum:

  • Advanced Database Management
  • Analytics Strategy and Practice
  • Data Mining for Business
  • Machine Learning and Statistical Methods for Business Analytics

Tuition

UIC Business is part of a public research university, so tuition and fees vary by residency. Because our programs offer flexible options, our tuition varies based on the number of classes you are taking each semester. To calculate your tuition and fees, please visit the Tuition Information page.

Don’t forget, UIC Business offers scholarships and partial tuition waivers. Ask an admissions representative about our many options to help you afford your education

Admissions Heading link

MSBA Student in class at UIC Business

At UIC, we have a holistic admissions process that considers undergraduate record, resume, letters of recommendation and more.

 

GMAT/GRE

GMAT/GRE test waivers available upon request for all masters’ degrees

Graduate Application Deadlines Heading link

Apr 1 2025

Fall 2025 International

Tuesday, 12:00 am–11:59 pm
Jul 1 2025

Fall 2025 Domestic

Tuesday, 12:00 am–11:59 pm

Master's in Business Analytics FAQ Heading link

The Master of Science in Management Information Systems Program focuses on information technology, software and systems, and prepares students for jobs as developers, business analysts, project managers and technology consultants.

The Master of Science in Business Analytics Program trains students to work in data-rich environments. It enables students to solve real business problems through organization, analysis, and interpretation of data. This course prepares students for jobs as data analysts, data scientists, and domain analysts (e.g., financial analyst, healthcare analyst, or risk analyst).

The program offers prerequisites to equip students with the necessary business and technical background. Prerequisites do not count toward the 32-credit program requirement. Technical prerequisites cover essential knowledge of databases, programming and statistics. Students without prior business education or experience are required to take two courses in core business areas like finance, marketing, accounting or operations. Prerequisite courses may be waived based on equivalent prior coursework or work experience in a functional area. For a full list of requirements including prerequisites, see “View Degree Requirements” above or visit the UIC Catalog.

The MS Business Analytics program offered by the Liautaud School of Business is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) course.

The MS Business Analytics Program admits students in both the fall and spring semesters. Students may choose to enter in the summer semester to take prerequisite courses, including programming, database and business prerequisites. Students seeking summer admission are encouraged to apply early.

Students from a variety of backgrounds (including tech and business) enroll for the MSBA Program. Through coursework, students develop the technical and business skills required to successfully complete the program. We assess candidates to provide each individual with prerequisite courses based on their background and work experience.

Data Science & Analytics Consultant at EY, MSBA '18

“My passion for data and insights began during high school when I was working on a project on the milk supply pattern of my locality which encompassed thousands of households. My curiosity got the best of me, fast forward a few years and I ended up pursuing a master’s in economics, wherein my understanding of data-driven business grew and I also learned its immense importance. My transition to analytics as a whole has been a gradual and smooth ride, influenced by my work at Capgemini where I was a consultant with Data Science and Analytics team. UIC provided me the best possible MSBA program which matched my background and catered to my requirements. It helped me develop sound technical skills along with knowledge of business concepts. UIC has definitely helped me kick start my journey in the world of analytics.”

Varshini Varanasi, Data Science and Analytics Consultant, EY  |  MSBA '18