MS in Business Analytics in the USA: Universities, Course Fees, & Job Opportunities
Pursuing an MS in Business Analytics in the USA offers numerous advantages, such as world-class education, career opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge industry practices. The U.S. is home to 43 of the world’s top 100 institutions offering business analytics programs, including schools like MIT and UCLA. These programs emphasize both technical expertise and business strategy. Additionally, many programs are STEM-designated, increasing job prospects and the likelihood of obtaining relevant work experience in the U.S. In this blog, we have discussed the top schools you can apply for an MS in business analytics based on their ranking.
Why Should You Pursue an MS in Business Analytics in the USA?
Pursuing a master’s in the USA offers multiple benefits that can significantly enhance both your educational experience and career prospects. We have listed the top reasons why you should pursue an MS in Business Analytics in the USA.
1. Recognized Universities
The U.S. is home to several globally renowned institutions, such as MIT, UC Berkeley, and Columbia University, which offer master’s degrees in business analytics and related programs. These universities provide access to cutting-edge research, renowned faculty, and extensive resources, and as a result, the degrees are widely recognized and respected internationally.
2. Industry Hub
The USA hosts some of the world’s largest hubs for technology, finance, consulting, and consumer goods. This means students pursuing a master’s in business analytics are at the forefront of industry innovation. Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston are home to numerous Fortune 500 companies and tech giants, allowing students to gain internships, practical experience, and networking opportunities.
3. Specialized Courses
Many U.S. programs offer specialized coursework in areas such as machine learning, big data, artificial intelligence, and predictive modeling, tailored to current industry demands. Schools like UCLA Anderson and UT Austin McCombs offer capstone projects and hands-on analytics labs, enabling students to apply classroom concepts to solve real-world business challenges. This focus on specialized courses and applied learning helps graduates stand out in the job market with well-rounded, in-demand skills.
4. Post-Study Work Visa
International students in the U.S. benefit from the ‘optional practical training [OPT] program. The visa allows students to work for up to three years in the U.S. post-graduation in a STEM-related field like business analytics. This extended work authorization gives students the chance to gain invaluable professional experience in the job market in America.
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Best Universities in the USA for Masters in Business Analytics
When considering a master’s of science in business analytics in the USA, choosing the right university can significantly impact your education and career trajectory. We have listed some of the top universities based on their QS World Rankings.
| University Name | Location | QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] |
| MIT [Sloan] | Cambridge, Massachusetts | 1 |
| UCLA [Anderson] | Los Angeles, California | 2 |
| Columbia Business School | New York City, New York | 6 |
| Duke [Fuqua] | Durham, North Carolina | 7 |
| Carnegie Mellon [Tepper] | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | 11 |
| Texas [McCombs] | Austin, Texas | 12 |
| USC [Marshall] | Los Angeles, California | 14 |
| Washington [Foster] | Seattle, Washington | 21 |
| Mitch Daniels School of Business [Purdue] | West Lafayette, Indiana | 23 |
| Minnesota [Carlson] | Minneapolis, Minnesota | 26 |
1. MIT – Sloan School of Management
The one-year program in advanced business analytics at MIT [Sloan] is specially designed for mathematicians, engineers, physicists, and data science professionals. Moreover, this program is also designed in collaboration with MIT’s Operation Research Center to train graduates to apply data science to solve complex business challenges. The program emphasizes practical projects where students can collaborate with industry leaders to solve real-world data-related problems.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $91,250 [₹76.71 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Average Salary | $118,000 [₹99.20 LPA] |
| Scholarship | – Merit-based scholarship – Other scholarships are awarded upon admission. It does not require a separate -application – Immediate Needs Fund |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 1 |
2. UCLA – Anderson School of Management
The MS in Business Analytics [MSBA] at UCLA Anderson is an intensive program that combines analytics theory with hands-on application. The curriculum includes core areas like data management, prescriptive models, and advanced machine learning, using languages and tools such as SQL, Python, and R. In addition to rigorous coursework, the program emphasizes industry relevance, offering a capstone project wherein students collaborate with real-world organizations to tackle analytical challenges, further strengthening their industry readiness.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $75,445 [₹63.42 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 15 month |
| Average Salary | $88,000 [₹73.98 LPA] |
| Scholarship | – Forté Fellowships – Consortium Fellowships – Merit Fellowships – Donor Fellowships |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 2 |
3. Columbia Business School
Columbia Business School is one of the top higher education institutions for pursuing an MSBA program in the US. The program aims to equip students with advanced analytical skills to navigate data-driven challenges. It is a three-semester, STEM-designated program tailored for those aiming to leverage analytics for strategic insights across industries.
The curriculum is designed to help students turn data into actionable business strategies, crucial for fields such as finance, consulting, and technology. An important part of the degree program is the capstone project, where students work closely with clients to tackle real-world business challenges using actual data.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $88,632 [₹74.51 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 3 semesters |
| Average Salary | $115,000 [₹96.68 LPA] |
| Scholarship | – Benjamin ’05 and Beth Hesse Endowed Scholarship Fund for Public or Nonprofit Leadership – Bishan Singh Kochhar Fellowship Fund – Rachel Jacobs ’02 Memorial Scholarship – The Benjamin Botwinick Scholarship |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 6 |
4. Duke’s Fuqua School of Business
The master’s in business analytics at Duke [Fuqua] is focused on advanced data analytics practices and management principles to train graduates to solve complex business challenges. Additionally, you will learn about key concepts like quantitative analytics, data science, and business applications.
The course will enable you to gain skills in finance, information risk management, business strategy, and marketing. During your course, you will also be working in teams to get hands-on experience in collaborative learning. Furthermore, the school’s career management center will support you in finding the best job opportunity after graduation.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $83,500 [₹70.20 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 10 months |
| Average Salary | $94,000 [₹79.02 LPA] |
| Scholarship | – Thomas F Keller Scholarships – University Scholars – The Manning Scholarship – Forte Foundation Fellowship – Fuqua Impact Scholars |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 7 |
5. Carnegie Mellon University – Tepper School of Business
Carnegie’s Mello University offers both full-time and part-time MSBA programs. The full-time master’s in business analytics at Tepper School of Business is a STEM-designated program. It focuses on four aspects: methodology [optimization and machine learning], business domain knowledge, software engineering [large-scale data management], and corporate communication. This program equips students with advanced technical skills and practical expertise to solve complex business problems. Graduates are prepared for data-driven roles in industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $69,412 [₹58.35 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 9 months |
| Average Salary | $100,000 [₹84.07LPA] |
| Scholarship | – Yellow Ribbon Program – Department of Defense [DoD] SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 11 |
Pro Tip: Considering studying abroad but concerned about costs? Check out our ultimate guide on Indian government scholarships for studying abroad.
6. University of Texas at Austin – McCombs School of Business
The MSBA program at Texas [McCombs] focuses on core modules including machine learning and data science programming. You would also have optional modules to choose from including optimization I, financial management, information management, marketing analytics, supply chain analytics, and analytics for unstructured data. You can also learn about unique programs such as data-driven healthcare operations, social media analytics, and artificial intelligence ethics.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $55,500 [₹46.66 Lakhs] |
| Duration | – 10 months [Full-Time] – 23 months [Part-Time] |
| Average Salary | $82,000 [₹68.94 LPA] |
| Scholarship | – May Term Faculty-Led Programs Students |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 12 |
7. University of South California – Marshall School of Business
USC is one of the best universities to pursue an MS in business analytics in the USA. IT’s MSBA program is primarily built on three pillars: statistics & optimization, computer science, and business strategy. Besides these key skills, the program also teaches graduates how to communicate and negotiate with stakeholders. Additionally, you would also have opportunities for internships in data sciences or operations.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $72,501 [₹60.95 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 16 months |
| Average Salary | $93,000 [₹78.18 LPA] |
| Scholarship | There is no separate application for scholarships. You will be assessed on the program application you submit and will be allotted financial aid accordingly. |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 14 |
8. University of Washington – Foster School of Business
The master’s in business analytics program at the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business ranks #7 for alumni outcome. Several graduates secure a job with a starting salary of $106k [₹87,98,000]. The program focuses on skills in business principles like accounting and finance, data analytical skills, leadership qualities, and practical learning. Some of the added perks of the program are one-on-one career coaching, strong networking opportunities, and cost-effective learning.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $57,249 [₹48.13 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Average Salary | $82,000 [₹68.94 LPA] |
| Scholarship | N/A |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 21 |
9. Purdue University – Mitch Daniels School of Business
Purdue University offers a unique program combining both business analytics and information technology. The MSBAIM program at Mitch Daniels School of Business is known for its state-of-the-art information technologies and analytical techniques. It is a STEM-designated curriculum focusing on Hadoop, Minitab, SQL, Python, SAS, and other big data technologies. The program equips students with experiential learning to enable them to lead complex organizations upon their graduation.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $ 56,700 [₹47.66 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Average Salary | $75,000 [₹63.05 LPA] |
| Scholarship | – Stamps Scholars – Beering Scholars |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 23 |
10. University of Minnesota – Carlson School of Management
The master’s in business analytics at Minnesota [Carlson] is #5 for best information systems programs [2021] according to the U.S News & World Reportings. Around 92% of graduates secure a job within six months from the completion of their course. Additionally, the program includes enhanced AI learning for the business track, with a focus on experiential learning through the Carlson Analytics Lab. The program is designed to equip students with the skills required to collect, process, and analyze data to enhance machine learning and AI to address business challenges.
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Fees | $73,350 [₹61.66 Lakhs] |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Scholarship | – Summer Financial Aid |
| Average Salary | $79,000 [₹66.41LPA] |
| QS 2025 Business Master’s Ranking [Global] | 26 |
Common Eligibility Criteria for an MS in Business Analytics in the USA
Pursuing an MS in business analytics in the USA can help you enhance your understanding of data science and business acumen through experiential learning. Since these skills are most in demand and universities have limited seats, they expect candidates to meet some common eligibility criteria to be considered for the program.
Here is a list of some of the common eligibility criteria:
- Educational Qualifications: Most universities expect students to have completed a bachelor’s program in a relevant field. These include programs like engineering, mathematics, economics, computer science, and business.
- Language Proficiency Test Scores: Since programs are taught in English, universities require you to submit proof of language proficiency. You can submit test scores from widely accepted English proficiency exams such as IELTS or TOEFL. These scores reflect your ability to comprehend and communicate in English to keep pace with the program.
- Work Experience: Include certifications if you have relevant work experience. You can also add acceptable training course certificates or achievements to strengthen your application.
- Additional Documents: You will be required to submit additional documents. These include your statement of purpose outlining your future ambitions and motivations for choosing your preferred university and course, academic transcripts, and other relevant certificates. Moreover, you will need to submit letters of recommendation from professors or employers who attest to your suitability for the program.
Cost of Studying MS in Business Analytics in the US
The cost of studying an MS in business analytics in the USA can vary based on the university, location, and program type. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses covering study and living costs:
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees for studying a master’s in business analytics may range from $45,000 to $90,000. Usually, the course duration is 9 months to 18 months. Top universities like MIT, Carnegie Mellon, and UC Berkeley have higher fees, while public universities and smaller institutions may have more affordable options. Most universities provide funding options, including fellowships and scholarships.
- Living Expenses: The living expenses vary by location and include housing, food, transportation, and other personal costs. Typically, if you reside in an urban area like New York or San Francisco, the cost would be up to $1,500 – $2,500 a month. The suburban living costs would be $1,000 – $1,500 a month.
- Additional Costs: The university does not cover additional expenses like laptops, or student services in tuition fees. Here is an overview of additional costs:
- Application Fee: $50 – $150
- Student Services and Activity Fees: $500 – $2,000 annually
- Books and Supplies: $1,000 – $2,000 per year
- Health Insurance: $1,500 – $3,000 per year
Also Read: Cost of Living in USA
Popular MS Business Analytics Jobs and Salary in the USA
A master’s in business analytics in the USA can open up a range of job opportunities. Graduates with skills in statistical modeling, data analysis, and business strategy are often preferred by top companies like Google and Microsoft.
We have compiled a list of top job options you can apply for after graduation with their estimated salary.
| Job Roles | Popular Recruiters | Salary [USD] | Salary [INR] |
| Operations Analyst | Cisco Ford Motor Company | $65,000 – $90,000 | ₹54.11 LPA – ₹74.9 LPA |
| Machine Learning Engineer | NVIDIA IBM | $110,000 – $145,000 | ₹91.57 LPA – ₹1.16 Cr |
| Quantitative Analyst | Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan | $100,000 – $140,000 | ₹83.25 LPA – ₹1.1 Cr |
| Analytics Consultant | McKinsey & Company BCG | $85,000 – $115,000 | ₹71 LPA – ₹95.7 LPA |
| Data Analyst | Amazon IBM | $65,000 – $85,000 | ₹54.1 LPA – ₹70.7 LPA |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | Microsoft PwC | $70,000 – $95,000 | ₹58.2 LPA – ₹79.2 LPA |
| Data Engineer | Meta Netflix | $95,000 – $130,000 | ₹79 LPA – ₹1 Cr |
| Data Scientist | Facebook | $90,000 – $120,000 | ₹74.9 LPA – ₹99.9 LPA |
Conclusion
The MS in business analytics in the USA can equip students with skills in predictive modeling, model evaluation, database management, and SQL. These are some of the most sought-after skills among employers. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly check your course modules before applying to get a glimpse of the practical projects and theories you will study during your course.
If you found this blog helpful, explore our guide on exams for studying abroad to discover which exam is the best fit for you.
FAQs
Answer: The USA is considered one of the best countries to pursue an MS in business analytics because of its updated curricula and focus on experiential learning. Moreover, the country is home to top companies in tech and finance fields, and the demand for skilled graduates is always at an all-time high.
Answer: GRE is not mandatory for a master’s in business analytics in the USA. However, check with your respective university before applying since eligibility criteria differ for every institution.
Answer: Yes, a master’s in business analytics in the USA often falls under the STEM program, owing to its combination of mathematics, computer science, and statistics.
