An online MBA in business analytics prepares students for high-demand roles in data-driven strategic business management. Graduates can pursue careers such as business analyst, data scientist, and analytics manager. Salaries can be generous, with data scientists, for example, earning a median annual pay of $108,020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
These programs typically take one to two years to complete, depending on whether you are enrolled full-time or part-time. The curriculum will likely focus on data analysis, predictive modeling, and business intelligence tools, equipping students with the skills to interpret complex data and drive business success. The average cost of an online MBA in business analytics ranges from about $12,500 to $30,000 a year, depending on your chosen institution.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best Online MBAs in Business Analytics degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 40 Accredited Online MBA in Business Analytics Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
UT Dallas MBA
Intelligent Score: 99.91In-state: $11,448
Out-of-state: $40,032
In-state: $12,028
Out-of-state: $12,028
SAT: 1210-1470
ACT: 26-33
In-State: $914
Out-of-State: $1,622
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
53
Indiana University - Bloomington
Intelligent Score: 99.46In-state: $9,815
Out-of-state: $36,194
In-state: $9,786
Out-of-state: $9,786
SAT: 1120-1350
ACT: 24-31
Resident: $889
Non-Resident: $1,457
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
54
Carnegie Mellon University
Intelligent Score: 98.24In-state: $57,560
Out-of-state: $57,560
In-state: $46,441
Out-of-state: $46,441
SAT: 1460-1560
ACT: 33-35
$758
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
48
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 98.23In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
$1,629
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
49
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Intelligent Score: 97.87In-state: $15,791
Out-of-state: $35,779
In-state: $14,014
Out-of-state: $14,014
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 27-32
$925
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
37-39
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Intelligent Score: 96.12In-state: $7,770
Out-of-state: $24,900
In-state: $6,138
Out-of-state: $6,138
SAT: 1110-1320
ACT: 22-28
$675
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
48
Santa Clara University
Intelligent Score: 95.51In-state: $52,998
Out-of-state: $52,998
In-state: $23,507
Out-of-state: $23,507
SAT: 1270-1450
ACT: 28-32
$1,277
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
66
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Intelligent Score: 93.47In-state: $7,019
Out-of-state: $34,198
In-state: $10,552
Out-of-state: $10,552
SAT: 1280-1490
ACT: 28-33
In-State: $863
Out-of-State: $1,151
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
48
Creighton University
Intelligent Score: 92.52In-state: $41,176
Out-of-state: $41,176
In-state: $16,686
Out-of-state: $16,686
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,000
Online, On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
33
University of North Dakota
Intelligent Score: 92.41In-state: $8,540
Out-of-state: $12,810
In-state: $11,060
Out-of-state: $11,060
SAT: 1000-1230
ACT: 20-27
$511
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
34
North Carolina State University
Intelligent Score: 91.22In-state: $6,535
Out-of-state: $26,654
In-state: $9,095
Out-of-state: $9,095
SAT: 1230-1410
ACT: 27-32
Resident: $525
Non-Resident: $1,635
Online, On-Campus, Hybrid
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
40
University of South Dakota
Intelligent Score: 90.86In-state: $7,697
Out-of-state: $11,172
In-state: $6,062
Out-of-state: $6,062
SAT: 1000-1245
ACT: 20-25
$470
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
39-45
University of North Texas
Intelligent Score: 90.02In-state: $8,295
Out-of-state: $18,111
In-state: $6,350
Out-of-state: $6,350
SAT: 1050-1240
ACT: 20-27
$570
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
36
Auburn University
Intelligent Score: 89.97In-state: $10,080
Out-of-state: $30,240
In-state: $10,080
Out-of-state: $10,080
SAT: 1160-1320
ACT: 25-31
$950
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
39
FIU College of Business
Intelligent Score: 89.34In-state: $4,721
Out-of-state: $16,529
In-state: $8,912
Out-of-state: $8,912
SAT: 1110-1260
ACT: 23-29
$900
Online, On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
45
Frostburg State University
Intelligent Score: 85.78In-state: $6,700
Out-of-state: $20,800
In-state: $7,866
Out-of-state: $7,866
SAT: 910-1130
ACT: 17-23
Resident: $465
Non-Resident: $600
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
36-42
Texas A&M University - Commerce
Intelligent Score: 85.71In-state: $8,395
Out-of-state: $36,849
In-state: $6,775
Out-of-state: $6,775
SAT: 1160-1380
ACT: 26-32
$507
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
American University
Intelligent Score: 84.46In-state: $50,542
Out-of-state: $50,542
In-state: $34,533
Out-of-state: $34,533
SAT: 1220-1390
ACT: 27-32
$1,922
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
48
How to Choose an Online MBA in Business Analytics Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Identify your career goals and interests, such as data management, predictive analytics, or business intelligence. Research the specializations offered by different programs to find one that aligns with your objectives. Consider industry demand and potential salary benefits for various specializations. If you are able to, shadow professionals in the field to help you determine if a particular career option interests you. This step is essential to gaining relevant skills and knowledge, making you more competitive in the job market and better prepared for your desired role in business analytics.
Research schools and programs
Start by looking for accredited institutions to ensure a high-quality education that will be well-regarded by potential employers. Examine program curricula to see if they cover essential topics like data analysis, machine learning, and strategic decision-making. Investigate faculty qualifications and their industry experience to ensure you will receive expert guidance. Consider program flexibility, such as part-time options and asynchronous versus synchronous courses, to accommodate your schedule. Also, check for student support services, including career counseling and networking opportunities.
Prepare for tests and applications
Start by researching the specific admission requirements for each program you are considering, including necessary standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE. Allocate sufficient time to study for these exams using practice tests and study guides to improve your scores. Gather essential documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing your career goals and experience in business analytics. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and achievements. It’s crucial to ensure all materials are well-prepared and submitted by deadlines. Proper preparation demonstrates your commitment and readiness for graduate-level study, significantly enhancing your chances of acceptance into your desired program.
Select your program
Start by ensuring that any program you are considering is accredited by a reputable organization, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Accreditation ensures the program meets high standards of quality and is recognized by employers. Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it includes key topics like data analysis, predictive modeling, and business intelligence. Review faculty qualifications to ensure they have relevant industry experience. Consider program flexibility, such as part-time options and asynchronous classes, to accommodate your schedule. In addition, explore the availability of student support services like career counseling and networking opportunities for online students.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Find out the total cost by adding up tuition, fees, and materials. Don’t forget to account for the cost of high-speed internet and a reliable computer so you can effectively access the courses. Ensure the program is accredited by a reputable body, as this can impact your eligibility for financial aid and employer reimbursement. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants and loans. Explore scholarships, grants, and fellowships specific to business analytics from private organizations and networking bodies. Check if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement programs.
What Can You Expect From an Online MBA in Business Analytics Degree Program?
An online MBA in business analytics equips students with advanced skills in data analysis, strategic decision-making, and business intelligence. Prospective students can expect to learn about topics such as predictive modeling, data visualization, machine learning, and big data management. The curriculum often integrates practical applications of analytics to real-world business problems, ensuring that graduates can translate data insights into actionable business strategies.
Typically, these programs take one to two years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. While the majority of coursework can be completed online, some programs may require occasional in-person components, such as residencies, workshops, or labs, to provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
Students will also likely engage in capstone projects or internships, which offer practical experience and a chance to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting. These programs often emphasize the development of both technical skills and business acumen, preparing graduates for roles such as data analyst, business intelligence manager, and data scientist.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online MBA in business analytics degree program
- Predictive Analytics. Covers statistical techniques and algorithms used to predict future outcomes based on historical data. Students learn to build and validate predictive models, interpret results, and apply these insights to make data-driven business decisions.
- Data Visualization. Students explore tools and techniques for creating effective visual representations of data. They may learn to use software like Tableau and Power BI to design dashboards and reports that communicate complex data clearly and effectively to stakeholders.
- Big Data Management. Introduces the principles and technologies involved in managing and processing large datasets. Students gain hands-on experience with big data platforms like Hadoop and Spark, learning to handle data storage, retrieval, and analysis on a massive scale.
- Machine Learning for Business. Students learn the fundamentals of machine learning algorithms and their applications in solving business problems. The course covers supervised and unsupervised learning, model evaluation, and the use of machine learning in predictive analytics and automation.
- Strategic Decision Making. Focuses on integrating analytical insights into business strategy. Students learn to apply quantitative methods to real-world business scenarios, enhancing their ability to make strategic decisions based on data analysis and interpretation.
Online MBA in Business Analytics Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online MBA in business analytics degree program?
Complete the program’s application form, which is likely to be found on the school’s website. You will need to submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining your career goals and experience. Standardized test scores, such as the GMAT or GRE, may also be required. Some programs might request a resume detailing your professional background. Consider making an appointment to speak with an admissions counselor before applying to ensure you meet all requirements and understand the process. They can provide valuable insights and guidance, helping you prepare a strong application.
How much does an online MBA in business analytics degree cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the annual cost of tuition for an MBA in business analytics typically ranges from $12,500 to $30,000. Additional expenses may include technology fees, textbooks, and course materials. While online programs can save money on commuting and housing costs, students should also budget for a reliable computer and high-speed internet. Some programs might have occasional in-person residencies or workshops, adding travel and accommodation expenses. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs can help offset these costs.
How long does it take to earn an online MBA in business analytics degree?
Earning an online degree typically takes one to two years, depending on whether you attend classes full-time or part-time. Programs usually require between 30 to 45 credits, which influences the overall duration of the program. Online programs offer greater flexibility compared to on-campus programs, allowing students to balance studies with professional and personal commitments as needed. However, some online programs might include synchronous sessions or occasional in-person residencies, which could affect the pace. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to fit their schedules, making it a convenient option for working professionals.