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5 Reasons to Get a Masters in Business Analytics Degree

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Last updated July 23, 2026
 

Data is the oil of the 21st century. Much like how oil only becomes useful once refined, data must be broken down and analyzed before it becomes a valuable resource. This is where business analytics comes in.

In the rapidly digitizing economy, a master’s degree in business analytics and artificial intelligence can set you up to become a leading force in the growing field of data science and business analytics. Here are 5 reasons to pursue this degree:

 

1. High Career Demand of Analytics & AI

As the digital economy matures, companies across industries are turning to big data and AI to gain customer insights and drive decisions. According to the 2025 McKinsey Global Survey on AI, more than 75% of organizations now use AI in at least 1 business function — evidence that data and analytics are no longer optional but foundational to modern business performance. Companies that embed analytics and AI into their operations consistently outperform those that do not.

With organizations adopting enterprise-wide data strategies and a data-driven culture, demand is rising for professionals who can turn complex data into business insights. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects data scientist careers to grow 35% through 2032, far above the 5% average growth rate for all occupations. This translates into a need for an average of 17,700 data analysts and data scientists each year for the next decade.

As the field continues to mature, a degree in data analytics and AI — such as the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management’s Master of Science in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (MSBAi) — can position you as a key driver of how organizations adopt and apply analytics and AI to solve problems and create innovation.

MSBAi Degree — Key Takeaways

  1. MSBAi graduates see a significant jump in base salary compared to those with only a bachelor's degree.
  2. The MSBAi curriculum builds advanced skills in SQL, Python and AI that employers covet.
  3. With data scientist roles projected to grow rapidly, this degree sets you up for long-term career relevance.

 

2. Increased Earning Potential

Since demand and growth for business analytics and AI professionals are so high, there are opportunities for great returns for your investment in a graduate degree. ZipRecruiter reports that the annual pay for those with a bachelor’s in business administration is $69,117. Compare that to the average salary of those with a master’s degree. Carlson’s 3-year (2023-2026) average base salary is $103,051 with a mean signing bonus of $8,881 — a 49% increase after just one year of additional study.

 

3. Versatility Across All Industries: Healthcare, Tech, Finance, and More

At its core, business analytics is about offering data-driven insights and intelligence, whether it is to support a decision or to add intelligent features to products and services. No matter your interests—whether it’s in using data to better target your marketing campaigns or power predictive organization for your company’s budget — you will find your skills in demand across business functions. As more industries undergo digital and AI transformation, take your pick in consulting, start-ups, nonprofit and corporate firms from healthcare, finance, technology, retail, sports, agriculture, to … well, you name it.

 

4. Connect to a Powerful Global Network of Analytics Professionals and Alumni

Developing meaningful relationships in the analytics field and industry is valuable for launching and advancing your career. Since business analytics programs are offered through a university’s business school, it means you’ll have access to strong alumni networks and robust career services. During your program, you’ll have many opportunities to cultivate such connections through a built-in network of faculty mentors, peers and alumni. These relationships can open the door to new possibilities, help you stay current with industry trends and serve as a resource as you navigate your career. 

The Carlson Business Career Center will help you grow your network of analytics professionals so you’re prepared for your career after graduation. Through info sessions, site visits and weekly drop-in events, you can meet with business representatives to learn about different company cultures and expand your professional contacts. You’ll also have a dedicated career coach to help you navigate all aspects of your career development, from goal identification to job negotiation, for life. And with a network of 60,000+ alumni from around the world, there’s no shortage of opportunities to move you toward your goals.

 

5. Build the Knowledge and Skills You Need to Pursue a Career in Data Analytics

A master's program can improve and advance your analytical skills so you’re ready to work professionally as a data analyst. It can also help you build a technically-oriented career that requires an advanced understanding of statistical and machine learning modeling. Some jobs you will be able to pursue with a master’s degree in business analytics also include data science, data engineering and machine learning engineering. Furthermore, the MSBAi program prepares you for new careers that are emerging such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) engineer.

With a Carlson MSBAi degree, you’ll be equipped with a systematic understanding of the field of business analytics and a robust, well-rounded set of essential skills, including AI. Through coursework in fundamentals such as statistics, SQL and programming to advanced topics such as predictive modeling, AI and big data engineering, you’ll receive comprehensive training in just 1 year. 

You’ll also work with the latest technologies and software tools such as Python, AWS, Apache Spark and Jupyter Notebook, and put your knowledge and skills to the test with hands-on learning opportunities. 

Through the Carlson Analytics Lab, you’ll work with real-world datasets to solve problems for corporate partners in all 3 semesters. With Minnesota Carlson's comprehensive and experiential analytics curriculum, you’ll be prepared to hit the ground running at any company, in any industry.

 

If you love working with data and can stay open to a lot of different learning along the way, a master’s program in business analytics and AI can help you become a leading force as more companies integrate analytics into their operations. Learn more about how the Carlson Master of Science in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence program can take your career to the next level whether you’re new to the field or building on your existing experience.

MSBA alumni Ariana Irani during interview

Accelerating your path in business analytics

Learn how the MSBAi degree helped alumni launch and accelerate their business analytics career at several different companies.

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