Business Analytics FAQs

Thinking about the MS in Business Analytics? This page covers the questions we hear most, from program structure and curriculum to admissions requirements and career outcomes.

Have a question not answered here? Feel free to email us anytime at [email protected].

 

Overview

The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is an intensive, 12-month, full-time, lockstep program designed to equip students with the deep quantitative, analytical and data science skills necessary to solve complex business challenges effectively.

This program is an ideal fit for early- to mid-career professionals from quantitative backgrounds such as engineering, computer science, math, statistics or business. That being said, all students, regardless of background, who possess a strong analytical mindset and are eager to excel in the field of business analytics are encouraged to apply. View the Business Analytics class profile.

The MSBA is a 12-month, full-time, on-campus program featuring a structured, lockstep cohort curriculum, with classes scheduled primarily during traditional business hours.

The program maintains a single annual intake, commencing in September (Fall).

The MSBA is designed primarily for early- to mid-career professionals and recent graduates. The average admitted student profile includes an average age of 25 and 3.3 years of work experience. View the Business Analytics class profile.

Yes, the MSBA program holds the STEM designation, which qualifies eligible international graduates to apply for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension.

The MSBA is currently ranked #5 among U.S. public universities in the QS Business Masters Rankings: Business Analytics (2026). Carlson is also ranked #7 in Information Systems programs by U.S. News & World Report (2024–2025). Graduates report a strong career outcome, with a three-year median base starting salary of $115,000.

The MSBA program teaches you to harvest, process, and analyze data to extract actionable insights. You will graduate with a unique combination of data science skills and business acumen, ready to lead in a data-driven world. The curriculum covers the full analytics continuum—from descriptive exploration and predictive analytics to causal inference and prescriptive optimization.

The best way to learn is to attend a Minnesota Carlson event. You can meet admissions staff and get direct answers to your questions. You can also explore our website for student videos, curriculum details and information on the Carlson Analytics Lab. To connect with us directly, email the MS Programs Office at [email protected].

The MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) is a great fit if you want to use data and advanced analytics tools to uncover business insights and drive decisions. It differs from other graduate programs in several important ways:

  • MS in Business Analytics (MSBA): Focuses specifically on data analytics, data science, and the use of advanced data analytics tools in business settings.
  • MS in Management Information Systems (MIS): A broader degree centered on IT management, systems, and digital infrastructure within organizations.
  • MS in Data Science: A more technical program emphasizing statistics, computing systems, and developing new data science methods and algorithms.
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA): A general management degree covering areas such as strategy, finance, marketing, and operations, with less depth in technical analytics.

Yes. We offer dual degree options that combine the MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) with either the Master of Science in Finance (MSF) or the Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations (MHRIR).

The program begins in the fall (September). We do not offer spring or summer start dates. Required orientation takes place the week before classes start in late August or early September.

The MSBA is a one-year (12-month) program that runs from September to August. It follows a structured, lockstep cohort format, so you cannot change the duration.

Yes. The MSBA is a STEM-designated program. This allows eligible international students to apply for a 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, for a total of 36 months beyond graduation. The program does not authorize Curricular Practical Training (CPT) because students are not enrolled for the required minimum of one year before the program concludes.

Admissions

The program is distinguished by its intesive, technical curriculum, its hands-on experiential learning projects with actual clients and real data, as well as a prime location in downtown Minneapolis, giving our students access to top companies.

Minimum requirements include a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a 4-year U.S. degree, successful completion of at least one college-level quantitative course (e.g., calculus, statistics, etc.), a current résumé, video interview/essay, personal essays and two recommendations. View requirements & deadlines.

Work experience is not strictly required but is highly preferred. Admitted students often have relevant internship experience, with the average admitted class possessing 3.3 years of work experience.

GMAT or GRE scores are optional for the MSBA program if a student meets a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent). The average GMAT score for admitted students is 691.4, and the average total GRE score is 320.2.

Application deadlines are detailed on the official requirements and deadlines page. Applications are reviewed in multiple rounds leading up to the single Fall intake.

A bachelor's degree equivalent to a 4-year U.S. degree is required. 3-year degrees from India are not considered equivalent without an additional year of postgraduate education. Check with the office of admissions if you're uncertain whether your degree is equivalent.

Yes, all undergraduate majors are welcome to apply, with backgrounds like Engineering representing the largest percentage of the student body (38%).

Yes. You must demonstrate competency in at at least one programming language from a select list (such as Python, Java, or C++) by the time orientation begins. The program also requires at least one college-level quantitative course and, ideally, some internship or project experience involving data analysis. View program prerequisites.

The GMAT/GRE is listed as “optional for qualified applicants.” Strong applicants with solid academics and quantitative preparation may be admitted without scores. Test scores can be beneficial if parts of your profile (such as GPA or prior coursework) are weaker. Consult the current Requirements & Deadlines guidance for exact policy details. GMAT or GRE scores are optional for the MSBA program if a student meets a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).

The MSBA has multiple rounds for fall entry, with deadlines typically ranging from November 1 to June 15 (final round for domestic students). Each deadline has a specific decision notification date, and decisions guaranteed to be released by that date for completed applicants. View application deadlines.

Limited fee waivers are available through Minnesota Carlson for specific groups, such as eligible U.S. military applicants or participants in certain partner programs. Review our Requirements & Deadlines page for details on the online application process, including current fee waiver eligibility and instructions.

Yes. International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency unless they qualify for a Graduate School exemption. Studying in English alone does not always waive testing; applicants must adhere to the University of Minnesota English-language requirements for accepted tests (TOEFL iBT, IELTS, Duolingo, etc.) and minimum scores.

Yes. The application requires two recommendations. Preferred recommenders are professional or academic contacts who can speak to your analytical ability, quantitative skills, teamwork and readiness for a rigorous graduate program. View application requirements.

The MSBA requires a first university degree equivalent to a 4-year U.S. bachelor’s degree. For example, a 3-year degree from India does not meet this minimum on its own. If your degree is non-traditional, the safest step is to have your credentials evaluated and consult the MSBA admissions team.

We review applications holistically. We consider your past academic performance (transcripts and GPA), standardized test scores (if applicable), work experience, resume, personal statement and letters of recommendation.

We review applications in rounds, and you can expect to receive your admission decision by the decision notification date for the round in which you apply. For the most current application deadlines and decision timelines, please visit our Requirements & Deadlines page. We encourage you to apply early for the best access to scholarship opportunities and to ensure space is available in the cohort.

No. You do not need a degree in business or computer science. Our students come from diverse backgrounds, including engineering, math, statistics, communications, biology and history.

Full-time work experience is not required, but it is preferred. We strongly recommend having internships or experience involving data analysis, technical software or programming (e.g., Python, R, SQL). About one-third of our students join directly from undergraduate studies.

Completion of a Quantitative Course: You must complete at least one college-level quantitative course (or pre-approved online certificate) from a select list of subjects (calculus, statistics, linear algebra, etc.) before you apply. We do not make exceptions. Short Calculus, Survey of Calculus, and Pre-Calculus do not satisfy this requirement. This must be completed by the time you submit your application.

Demonstrated Computer Programming Competency: You must demonstrate proficiency in one of the following programming languages: Python, C, C++, C#, VB (not VBA),Rust, Javascript or Java. You can show this through academic coursework or a completed online certification. Note that this is not required to be complete at the time of application submission. If you are admitted without fulfilling this prerequisite, it must be completed by orientation.

No. We do not offer conditional admission. You must meet all requirements at the time you apply.

Unless the country in which you were educated is on the preapproved list, you must take an English Language test, regardless of language of instruction, to apply to the MSBA. See the admissions requirements site for accepted tests and minimum scores. Scores must be less than two years old.

You can upload unofficial transcripts with your application. If admitted, you must submit official transcripts before enrolling. We do not require credential evaluations like WES. Non-English transcripts must include an English translation.

Yes. We require two recommendations. We suggest at least one come from a supervisor if you have work experience. We use the GMAC Common Letter of Recommendation form.

We automatically waive the fee for active duty U.S. military members. Otherwise, we are unable to waive the application fees.

No. You must submit a separate application for each program.

No. We require a four-year U.S. bachelor's degree or its equivalent. Students with a three-year degree must complete an additional year of post-baccalaureate study before applying.

Tuition & Aid

Tuition is charged per credit for the 45-credit program. For the 2026-2027 academic year, Resident Tuition is $45,000 and Non-Resident Tuition is $56,250. Mandatory fees, such as student service fees and the collegiate fee, are additional. Explore Tuition & Aid.

Yes, merit-based scholarships are available to strong applicants. Students should consult the program's dedicated tuition and aid page for detailed application information.

TA/GA positions are typically available for students to apply for, but not offered through the admissions process. A position is not guaranteed. The program cautions that it can be difficult for students to balance the curriculum with a part-time position.

Yes. Students typically fund the program through a combination of federal student aid, private loans and personal funds. Although less common for a full-time program, employer sponsorship remains a viable option.

Students can refer to our One Stop Financial Aid website for estimates of essential living expenses such as housing, food, transportation and books.

The total estimated tuition for the full 12-month program is $45,000 for Minnesota residents and $56,250 for non-residents (Fall 2026 estimate). These figures are estimates and do not include fees or living costs. Explore Tuition & Aid.

Yes. Carlson and the University offer a limited number of competitive, merit-based scholarships. All applicants are automatically considered, and scholarship information is shared with admission decisions. Awards typically do not cover full tuition.

Options include merit scholarships, federal loans (for U.S. citizens/permanent residents), private educational loans, and personal resources. Applicants are directed to the University’s One Stop Student Services for comprehensive loan and financial aid details.

Employer sponsorship for the MSBA is possible but uncommon. Carlson does not track or publish formal sponsorship statistics, and while a small number of students utilize tuition reimbursement or sponsorship benefits arranged directly with their employers, these cases remain **rare** and are handled strictly on an individual basis between the student and their company.

We do not guarantee assistantships. While a small number of students may secure positions after the program begins, we generally advise against it due to the heavy academic workload.

Curriculum

The program requires 45 credits and follows a structured, lockstep cohort curriculum. Coursework covers essential topics including exploratory and predictive analytics, causal inference, data engineering and foundational Artificial Intelligence concepts.

While this is a lockstep, cohort-based program, students are required to take 6 elective credits. As a part of those electives, students can pursue the "AI for Business Track", though there aren't any formal concentrations in the program. Elective credits can be used to take specialized technical courses or MBA courses.

Yes, a required summer term, real-world project executed through the Carlson Analytics Lab serves as the major practicum and experiential learning component.

Real-world experience is centered on the Carlson Analytics Lab, where students work in small teams to lead projects for client companies, providing invaluable resume experience.

The schedule is not flexible. Classes are scheduled during traditional business hours, requiring full-time, in-person attendance due to the lockstep nature of the program.

The MSBA is a one-year, lockstep cohort program that runs full-time from September through August. Courses are scheduled across fall, spring, and summer terms, following a structured sequence of core classes, electives and an experiential project.

The curriculum uses Python and R extensively, along with common analytics and visualization tools. Coursework covers machine learning, AI methods, optimization, and databases, and other technologies relevant to business analytics projects.

The one-year MSBA program does not include a formal study-abroad or required global residency. Global engagement may occur through client projects and broader University resources, but a dedicated MSBA study-abroad track is not part of the structured curriculum.

We consider all applicants for limited academic merit-based scholarships. You do not need a separate application. Award decisions are sent with admission notifications. These are competitive and do not cover full tuition. Check our website for current tuition and fee information.

The MSBA curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience with a wide range of analytics tools and programming languages to prepare you for diverse roles and projects after graduation. You will work extensively with Python and R, along with other industry-standard tools used for data analysis, visualization and machine learning.

Because of the structured cohort format, specialization options are limited. You will have 6 elective credits to tailor your studies. Beyond that, the program does not offer further specializations.

For the most current elective offerings, please refer to the MSBA curriculum page on our website.

The ELP is a semester-long project that runs through your final semester. You will work in a team of four to six students on a live project for a partner company, such as Sun Country Airlines, PwC or the Mall of America. Advised by faculty, you will run the project from start to finish—assessing needs, devising approaches and deriving business value from data. This experience makes graduates highly attractive to employers.

No. We do not offer international study or study abroad as part of the MSBA curriculum.

No. The curriculum does not include an internship. Instead, you complete the Experiential Learning Project (ELP) during the summer semester. This 14-week project provides real work experience with a partner company.

Community & Careers

Students receive full access to the Carlson Business Career Center (CBCC), which provides comprehensive support, including coaching, job-search support, interview preparation, résumé assistance and targeted networking opportunities.

Graduates secure critical roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Analytics Consultant, Data Analyst and Marketing Analyst. Top recruiters include major technology and finance firms such as Capital One, Discover and JP Morgan. View MS Business Analytics employment statistics.

Employers who hire MSBA graduates have included Amazon, Capital One, Google and Target. Graduates are also placed in financial services, technology, retail, consulting and healthcare companies that recruit through Carlson’s extensive corporate network. Refer to Minnesota Carlson's employment reports for more detailed information.

Yes. The Carlson Business Career Center (CBCC) and MSBA staff actively support job searches through coaching, employer outreach, job postings and events, working closely with students during the program.

Yes. As the MSBA is STEM-designated, eligible international graduates can apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, providing up to three years of work authorization in the U.S., subject to federal rules and Office of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) guidance.

Yes. Several courses cover AI topics, including Natural Language Processing (NLP), deep neural networks (CNN, RNN, transformer architecture) and Large Language Models (LLM). You will learn to apply these tools in business settings.

Graduates typically secure roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Senior Marketing Data Analyst, Digital Insights Analyst, Analytics Consultant and Product Data Analyst. View MS Business Analytics employment statistics.

Yes. The Carlson Business Career Center (CBCC) offers comprehensive career planning services. We have a dedicated career coach for business analytics students, though you can work with any coach in the center. Alumni maintain access to these services for life.

Student Life

The typical cohort includes 50–80 students with an average age of 25, an average of 3.3 years of work experience, and a median GPA of 3.54. The student body is highly international, with 62% international enrollment last year. View the Business Analytics class profile.

As full-time students, MSBA candidates have access to the full range of Carlson graduate student clubs, student organizations and leadership development opportunities.

The alumni network is notably strong. Students gain immediate access to the global 60,000+ Carlson alumni network for valuable mentorship and professional networking opportunities.

The student experience is immersive and cohort-based, characterized by a strong emphasis on collaboration, case-based study and close interaction with faculty and client companies through the Carlson Analytics Lab.

A typical MSBA cohort ranges between 50 and 80 students. The current class profile shows an average of 3.3 years of work experience, a median GPA of 3.54, and a diverse mix of undergraduate majors. View the Business Analytics class profile.

Students dedicate their time to full-time coursework, team projects, and client engagements on a year-round schedule. Collaboration is emphasized through small project teams, classroom discussions, Analytics Lab teams and co-curricular activities like case competitions.

Yes. MSBA students can join many of Carlson’s 20+ graduate student organizations, including analytics-focused and professional clubs. They may also participate in full-time MBA clubs, which host speakers, site visits and social events.

Students receive close support from faculty who teach and supervise projects, an MSBA program team for academic and co-curricular needs, and dedicated staff in the Carlson Business Career Center (CBCC) for career guidance.

Yes. MSBA students interact with MBA and other master’s students through shared student organizations, events and case competitions.

You can join any Full-Time MBA club or organization. These clubs host industry speakers, social events and networking opportunities.

Most students live off-campus. Limited on-campus graduate housing is available but difficult to secure.

We generally do not recommend working while enrolled. The schedule is rigorous, involving 15 credits per semester plus intensive career coaching and client work.