Online MBA in Data Analytics & Business Intelligence (BI)
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For the 2023-2024 academic year, we have 118 schools in our BSchools.org database and those that advertise with us are labeled “sponsor”. When you click on a sponsoring school or program, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
“During the MBA program, I gained an in-depth understanding of analytics tools and methodologies, enabling me to conduct thorough operational performance analysis and identify trends and outliers in customer interactions and service center operations. These insights have been crucial in improving client satisfaction and ensuring that our service delivery meets rigorous standards.”
Chanel Webb, MBA in Business Analytics, Syracuse University
With nearly unlimited data about customers available at the click of a button, there is an increased demand in business for people with the skills to make statistics, aggregates, spreadsheets, and other data forms meaningful. Especially in business, people need to dig deep into the analytics, make sense of the numbers, and provide business leaders with the information necessary and relevant to growth.
Business analytics and business intelligence (BI) are similar fields of study that prepare professionals to access and make sense of data so that it can be strategically useful to a business. As most industries increase their strategic reliance on data, having the capacity to work with data is a useful skill for any modern professional.
An MBA in business analytics or intelligence prepares professionals to thrive in a data-fueled business world. Earning an MBA in analytics or BI provides candidates the standard of the core of any MBA program, including business fundamentals, advanced theories, and management techniques. The focus in analytics or BI provides instruction on best practices to utilize databases, organize and compile information, and curate information for widespread understanding and best use. Students who earn an MBA in business analytics or intelligence generally leave with the ability to speak big business’s language and comprehend big data’s technical intricacies. These advanced skills can help current professionals branch into management positions and make entry-level job applicants more competitive.
Market research, a field heavily reliant on BI and analytics, is an occupation both lucrative and growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024), the market research analyst position pays a median wage of $74,680 annually, and openings are expected to grow 8 percent between 2023 and 2033. This growth is much faster than the average anticipated growth of 4 percent for all occupations, and the average wages are also much higher than the median wage for all occupations.
Those hoping to pursue an MBA in business intelligence can choose traditional on-campus programs, hybrid on-campus/online programs, and programs that are delivered fully online. Universities are increasingly embracing MBA programs that cater to busy professionals, students who cannot relocate, or students who prefer to learn in their own space. Business students now can enroll in online programs that are as high-quality, competitive, and connected as their traditional brick-and-mortar counterparts.
Read on to learn about universities that offer online MBAs in data analytics and business intelligence and one graduate’s perspective on the program.
Featured Business Analytics Programs | ||
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University of North Carolina | MBA@UNC Online MBA - Data Analytics and Decision Making | View Full Profile |
Pepperdine University | Online MBA - Business Analytics | View Full Profile |
Southern New Hampshire University | Online MBA In Business Analytics | View Full Profile |
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi | Online MBA in Business Analytics | View Full Profile |
Tulane University | Online MBA - Business Analytics | View Full Profile |
Middle Tennessee State University | Flex MBA - Strategic Marketing Analytics | View Full Profile |
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For the 2023-2024 academic year, we have 118 schools in our BSchools.org database and those that advertise with us are labeled “sponsor”. When you click on a sponsoring school or program, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details. |
Meet the Expert: Chanel Webb, MBA
Chanel Webb is a dynamic operations leader with over a decade of experience across insurance, technology, and health services. She earned her MBA in business analytics from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s in marketing from Clemson University.
Currently the director of operations in Hartford Steam Boiler’s IoT division, Webb leads her team in deploying sensor solutions and enhancing client support for environmental monitoring. She is actively involved in the Philadelphia Junior League, the National African American Insurance Association, and the Black MBA Association. Known for her inclusive leadership, Webb is passionate about building high-performing teams and advancing initiatives that foster diversity and community impact.
BSchools.org: How has graduating with an MBA in business analytics enhanced your career?
Webb: Graduating with an MBA in business analytics from Syracuse University has significantly advanced my career by equipping me with the analytical skills and strategic insights I apply daily to drive meaningful outcomes in leadership roles. From my time as assistant director at Marsh & McLennan (MMA East) to my current role as director of operations at Hartford Steam Boiler (HSB), I’ve found that my MBA in business analytics has not only sharpened my ability to interpret complex data but also empowered me to make data-driven decisions that enhance team performance, streamline processes, and maximize operational efficiency.
During the MBA program, I gained an in-depth understanding of analytics tools and methodologies, enabling me to conduct thorough operational performance analysis and identify trends and outliers in customer interactions and service center operations. These insights have been crucial in improving client satisfaction and ensuring that our service delivery meets rigorous standards. The program’s focus on strategic decision-making allowed me to play an instrumental role in vendor management, technology implementation, and continuous improvement projects, which involved managing on-shore and off-shore teams and executing talent acquisition strategies.
Since transitioning to my current role at HSB, my business analytics training has been invaluable in overseeing our IoT team, where I lead efforts in optimizing sensor placement and troubleshooting processes for clients. The program’s emphasis on analytical rigor has been essential as I work to translate data into actionable insights, ensuring that our operational initiatives are grounded in evidence-based strategies that directly contribute to our clients’ success.
Overall, my MBA has given me a versatile foundation to approach business challenges with confidence, allowing me to drive value across diverse teams, improve operational workflows, and make a meaningful impact on both organizational goals and customer outcomes.
BSchools.org: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective MBA student?
Webb: An MBA is about far more than the academics—it’s a unique chance to build lifelong connections and develop a professional network. Make an effort to engage with fellow students through class discussions, group projects, or university activities, and take advantage of every resource available to you as a student. Utilize the library, connect with professors for deeper insights, and consider international residencies or study abroad options to broaden your perspective. Seek out alumni mentors and lean on career services to shape your future. Fully embrace these opportunities, as they make an MBA more than just a degree.
Featured Online MBAs in Business Analytics & Intelligence
Grand Canyon University offers an online MBA program in business analytics through its Colangelo College of Business.
Courses include an introduction to graduate studies in the College of Business; leadership and organizations; accounting practices; finance principles; applied business probability and statistics; marketing management; economics; quantitative methods; managerial accounting; managerial finance; operations management; strategic management; applied analytics for business; and descriptive and diagnostic analytics.
Location: Phoenix, AZ |
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
Expected Time to Completion: 26 months |
Pepperdine University’s Graziadio Business School offers a top-ranked online MBA program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers while driving positive change. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development alongside core business functions. Students gain a strong foundation through courses in accounting, finance, marketing, and strategy while also honing their leadership skills with a focus on ethics and social responsibility. Pepperdine’s program allows for customization with seven concentration options, including global business, entertainment management, and nonprofit management.
The program is designed for flexibility, with completion possible in as few as 20 months. To be admitted, applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, though GMAT scores are not required. Specific details on GPA requirements and application materials are likely available on the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School website or by contacting the program directly.
Location: Malibu, CA |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC) offers a fully online MBA program designed for busy professionals who can complete it as quickly as 12 months. The curriculum provides a well-rounded business education with a general track or the option to specialize in one of five concentrations: accounting, data analytics, finance, healthcare administration, and international business.
To be admitted, applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA (not specified on the profile), and professional experience (which may vary). Previous work experience is not required, but a resume must be submitted as part of the application.
Location: Corpus Christi, TX |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
The business analytics focus offered within the MBA program at SNHU teaches students how to analyze patterns and draw useful information from data. The online format allows people to study where they choose. Offering a practical approach to business analytics, this MBA program prepares students for the application of data analytics techniques and tools.
The program, which consists of 30 credits, includes core courses such as leading people and organizations, organizational strategy in a global environment, measuring success in an organization, optimizing brands, and strategic opportunity management. The business analytics concentration includes courses such as descriptive business analytics, predictive business analytics, and business analytics.
Location: Manchester, NH |
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 18 months |
Tulane University’s A.B. Freeman School of Business offers a customizable online MBA program designed for working professionals. The program provides a flexible learning experience with asynchronous coursework and weekly synchronous meetings, allowing students to manage their busy schedules.
Students gain a well-rounded business foundation through core courses in accounting, finance, marketing, and other areas. They can also tailor their studies by choosing up to two concentrations in business analytics, finance, or marketing.
This online MBA program offers three enrollment dates throughout the year. The GMAT isn’t required for admission, and prospective students must have a bachelor’s degree and three to five years of professional experience. This program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to solve complex business problems, lead ethically, and succeed in various industries.
Location: New Orleans, LA |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Wake Forest University offers an online MBA program in business analytics. This specialization focuses on data management software, big data management, data manipulation, data analysis, coding languages, data visualization, and descriptive modeling.
To qualify for admission, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree, GRE or GMAT scores (waiver available), two contacts for reference, a resume, and transcripts. Those with five or more years of professional experience, a master’s degree, or a 3.2 GPA in a bachelor’s degree program may qualify for a test score waiver. Note that those with at least two years of professional experience are preferred, and an interview may be required. The WFU online MBA currently accepts students from Florida, Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.
Courses last seven weeks each, with two terms per semester. Courses in the business analytics concentration include data management, analytics software technology, and visual analytics and influencing. Core courses feature instruction in operations management, financial management, behavior and leadership in organizations, IT management, financial accounting, managerial accounting, business law, global strategic management, managerial economics, marketing management, and more.
Location: Winston-Salem, NC |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
University of Southern Indiana’s online MBA program allows students to choose from several concentration areas and data analytics is one of them. This online MBA with a concentration in data analytics prepares students to excel at quantitative problem-solving within business operations opening doors to exciting career opportunities.
The major admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, a minimum grade point average of 2.5, GMAT or GRE scores (waivers are available), official transcripts, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for foreign-born applicants whose native spoken language is not English.
The program consists of 30 credits, including courses in applied business analytics, data-driven decision making, information visualization and dashboarding, strategic and international management, marketing strategies, managerial economics, and leadership skills and innovation.
Graduates will be ready to take up roles such as business analysts, research scientists, statistics educators, information or computer systems analysts, and personal financial advisors.
Location: Evansville, IN |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 11 months |
Ohio University’s online programs were ranked among the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report. The online MBA specializing in business analytics is a two-year program for business professionals with at least two to five years of work experience.
Most of the program can be completed online; however, students must attend a weekend on-campus professional development workshop. Students are not required to attend any additional workshops throughout the program, but they are encouraged to do so. Students take 35 credits of core courses and electives. Students in the business analytics concentration must take three required classes: predictive analytics; prescriptive analytics; and business intelligence. This online MBA does not require the GMAT for admission.
Location: Athens, OH |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
The online MBA@UNC specializing in data analytics and decision-making teaches students how to make data-driven decisions and communicate the value of analytics in the business world. Students must complete two in-person immersions in a major international business center where they work with leading companies; previous companies have included Virgin Group, General Mills, and Google.
The 62-credit program is divided into core, elective, and cross-university courses. The courses in the data analytics and decision-making concentration include analytical tools, data analytics, Business Modeling, introduction to Python for business analytics, information for decision-making, incentives, and strategy, technology strategy and business innovation, marketing analytics, pricing, and negotiations.
Students who can travel to campus can take elective courses from the school’s full-time on-campus program and executive MBA program. While students are not required to have a minimum GPA from previous schooling, they must have at least two years of professional experience before being accepted into the program.
Location: Chapel Hill, NC |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 18 to 36 months |
The Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) Flex MBA in strategic marketing analytics is an online program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. It offers a flexible format, with the option to take courses entirely online, on campus, or in combination.
The curriculum equips students with the necessary skills to excel in leadership roles across various industries. It covers areas like data-driven business strategies, problem-solving, communication, and the latest advancements in finance and marketing. Students also gain valuable interpersonal skills to navigate professional interactions and effectively present their ideas.
Applicants to this program must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and previous work experience is recommended. GMAT or GRE scores are not required. This program can be completed in approximately two years.
Location: Murfreesboro, TN |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The University of New Haven’s online MBA provides students with the expertise needed for today’s dynamic and complex business world. This MBA takes a global approach to business education helping students expand their functional knowledge and gain the necessary skills in areas demanded by employers. Students can choose from the following concentrations: data analytics (STEM), global supply chain management, and business analytics.
The program comprises 34 credits including core coursework in leadership and team-building; managerial accounting; applied statistical methods; corporate finance; and marketing analysis and customer value. The business analytics concentration includes courses such as business forecasting; knowledge management; mining for business intelligence; and sports business analytics, among others.
Location: West Haven, CT |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
Expected Time to Completion: 18 to 24 months |
Although this school’s MBA program doesn’t specifically include a data or business intelligence component, students can combine the MBA program with a graduate certificate in business analytics. The program requires students to have a minimum of two years of professional work experience to apply.
Typically, online or on-campus students take at least 12 courses in the MBA program and then begin the 12-credit certificate program. Taking a total of six to 12 months, courses for the certificate satisfy elective requirements for the MBA program. The certificate program includes courses such as data mining for business analytics; marketing research; advanced data mining for business analytics; and marketing analytics. The 48-credit MBA program is available online or on campus. Online students can also participate in a weeklong global residency.
Location: Fairfax, VA |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
University of West Alabama’s College of Business and Technology offers an online master of business administration (MBA) program providing students with the advanced knowledge needed to take the next step in their business career and increase their earning potential. The program can be completed in just one year featuring concentration options in computing and data analytics, accounting, computer information systems, entrepreneurship and innovation, human resource management, and many more.
The computing and data analytics concentration consists of 33 credits including courses such as introduction to computing and data analytics; computing and data mining; environments and methods of big data analysis; emerging technologies; marketing management; and strategic management and business policy. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 to apply for the program.
Location: Livingston, AL |
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
The online MBA@Syracuse program has been ranked in the top ten programs of its kind by Fortune Education.
Students choose from six concentrations, one of which is business analytics. All students take core classes in data analysis and decision making, microeconomics, managerial finance, and the legal and ethical environment of business, among others. In the business analytics specialization, students learn how to collect, visualize, analyze, and mine complex data using practical analytic tools.
Most of the coursework is online; however, students must take part in three in-person residencies throughout the 54-credit program. Applicants must have at least one year of professional work experience and a minimum 3.0 GPA in the previous schooling. GMAT scores are not required for admission. Courses in this specialization include accounting analytics; principles of management science; and big data analytics.
Location: Syracuse, NY |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
The MBA@American specializing in business analytics is a 48-credit program that can be completed mostly online with two in-person immersions in as little as 15 months. The program is offered accelerated through five modules or at a normal MBA pace through eight modules. The latter course sequence takes 24 months.
Students take 13 core courses, two electives, and two immersions, which can be completed around the world. Previous immersions have been held in Brussels, San Francisco, and New York. There are many regular immersions in Washington, D.C. Students will take courses in business insights through analytics, business intelligence, database and big data, predictive analytics, and more. While work experience is not required for admission, it is considered.
Location: Washington, D.C. |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 12, 15, or 24 months |
Maryville University’s John. E. Simon School of Business offers an array of online MBA programs, including one with a business data analytics concentration. This program does not require GRE or GMAT test scores or professional experience to apply. Six start dates are offered throughout the year.
In addition to the foundational MBA courses, this 39-credit concentration offers instruction in data analytics I; data analytics II; data visualization; and forecasting and predictive modeling. The online MBA programs use the Canvas learning management system, which provides a digital workspace for collaboration and assignments, among other resources.
Location: St. Louis, MO |
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
Expected Time to Completion: 12 months or more |
Estimated Tuition: $714 per credit |
The online MBA program at Utica College is customizable across many different concentrations in some of the most in-demand sectors of business, such as cybersecurity, insurance risk management, financial accounting, health care management, entrepreneurship, and data analytics. Students can pick from one of the concentrations developed by Utica or further customize their education by selecting any four graduate-level courses that are offered by the school.
In the data analytics concentration, students can take the following classes: an introduction to data science, data mining, machine learning, statistical methods, and data visualization, among others. The goal is to teach students how to become data thinkers and decision-makers by learning about the power and limits of data.
The 30-credit online curriculum can be completed in two years part-time, allowing students to continue working while studying. They first take core classes, then move on to the concentration elective courses. A bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade point average of 2.7 is required for admission. GMAT or GRE scores are not required for admission.
Location: Utica, NY |
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) candidate |
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
Villanova’s online MBA has been ranked in the top 50 best online MBA programs for veterans by U.S. News & World Report. The school has also been recognized as one of the best MBA schools in the nation.
The 48-credit program is flexible and convenient for working professionals and can be customized with one of five specializations, including analytics. All students take 1.5 credits of fundamentals, including an on-campus leadership residency. They also complete 16.5 credits of functional courses, six credits of VSB pillars, and nine credits of capstones, including an on-campus global practicum, which is not required but encouraged. The last 15 credits comprise electives, which are offered according to each student’s concentration of choice.
The analytics specialization includes courses such as analytical methods for data mining, business intelligence, an introduction to business analytics, and marketing research tools. Students must submit an up-to-date resume and GMAT scores, as previous work experience and schooling are factored into the school’s decision for admission.
Location: Villanova, PA |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
Rockhurst University’s Helzberg School of Management offers an online MBA program that is designed to help students better understand the roles of a company, move into management positions, and improve their leadership skills. The university offers several concentrations and business intelligence is one of them.
Students in this concentration learn to use popular analytics tools such as Tableau and Google Analytics and gain the knowledge and information needed to lead teams confidently. Courses in this BI concentration include business intelligence, applied data mining, data visualization, analytics and strategy, and web and social media analytics. The program requires the completion of 30 credits.
Location: Kansas City, MO |
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) |
Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 36 months |
Strayer University offers an online master of business administration degree with a concentration in business data preparing students to take emerging and established data in marketing, finance, sales, management, and accounting and use technology for interpreting it and crafting sound business decisions.
Admission requirements include a completed application, a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university or college with a cumulative grade point average of 2.5, official copies of transcripts from all other universities or colleges attended, and a valid, current and legible government-issued photo identification.
Consisting of 54 credits, the program includes courses such as understanding business data; business data and decisions; operational data; financial accounting for managers; strategic management; business statistics; and financial management.
Location: Washington, DC |
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
Admission Requirements for Online MBA Programs
An undergraduate degree in business or an undergraduate degree combined with real-world business experience is often the baseline to be accepted into many MBA programs. Students interested in pursuing intelligence/analysis fields are also encouraged to have taken prerequisites in statistics or have related professional experience.
Admissions offices also typically ask for:
- Transcripts showing past classes or degrees in related technical or business-related fields and a competitive GPA (e.g., >3.0)
- Professional experience in a business or data field
- Letters of recommendation
- GMAT/GRE scores, which may be waived depending on past academic courses or professional experience
- Personal statement or essay
- Resume
- TOEFL scores for foreign students
MBA Program Accreditation
To ensure MBA candidates have competitive workplace skills, various professional organizations certify schools offering MBAs adhere to certain academic standards. Accreditation entities generally visit campuses and evaluate student and faculty surveys, graduation rates, graduate career placement, industry involvement levels, alumni support, and the availability of other resources.
One common accrediting organization for MBA programs is the Association of Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). AACSB looks closely at business administration, real estate, management, and human resources programs, generally at larger, research-based institutions. Another organization is the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). ACBSP focuses primarily on tangible learning outcomes and quality improvement.
Professionals already working in business intelligence professions, such as managing warehouses or information technology, may be able to earn advanced workplace/industry credentials, such as the Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP) certification from Transforming Data With Intelligence.