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Business Data Analytics M.S.

Aug. 21, 2024

Next Start Date

10

Courses Required

$965

Cost Per Credit Hour
Military Discount Available

30

Total Credit Hours

Online Courses, Virtual Residency

Learning Formats

Solve Big Data Problems

The Master of Science in Business Data Analytics offered by the John Chambers College of Business and Economics is located at the intersection of prescriptive analytics and data science for business. Prescriptive analytics uses techniques from operations research, operations management and global supply chain to help businesses achieve better decisions. Data science for business entails the use of data management technologies, data mining, machine learning and visualization techniques to help organizations better use the large-scale data they collect to optimize business outcomes. You will be qualified to answer the industry’s demand for a skilled pool of graduates who can apply data science to solve business challenges.

Ranked #21 among Public Online Business Master's programs by U.S. News & World Report

Invest in Your Future
The Business Data Analytics (BUDA) program at the John Chambers College of Business and Economics is located at the intersection of prescriptive analytics and data science for business. Prescriptive analytics uses techniques from operations research, operations management, and global supply chain to help businesses achieve better outcomes. Data science for business entails the use of data management technologies, data mining, machine learning, and visualization techniques to help organizations better use the large-scale data they collect to optimize business outcomes. Additionally, the curriculum lends itself to large-scale data set analysis for problems such as sports management, healthcare research, or the investigation of solutions for societal issues.

Students will have the knowledge and skills to demonstrate expertise in:

  • Statistical Techniques
  • Data Mining
  • Database Utilization
  • Analytical Tools

You will apply data analytics to decision-making in organizations, improving performance metrics and measurement, risk indicators, assessment, and response and compliance.

BUDA graduate students will use business analytics to:

  • Synthesize data trends
  • Identify competitive drivers
  • Successfully communicate the analysis and findings of an analytics initiative
  • Use visualization tools and advanced presentation skills to facilitate data-driven decision making

All BUDA students work on experiential learning projects with companies and clients and present their results in their capstone project.

The mission of our program is to enhance a student’s ability to use analytics and data science techniques to support informed business decisions and increase organizational value.


The program offers full-time and part-time plans of study that are typically completed in 3-5 semesters. Our graduate advisors are here to help guide you through the graduate school experience and will be the ones you turn to for questions about your plan of study, course registration, or any other assistance you need.

Attend a Virtual Information Session

Thank you for your interest in the Business Data Analytics M.S. program at West Virginia University! Attend a Virtual Information Session and learn more about the Business Data Analytics M.S. program.

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Kelly Legg, Personal Online Admissions Coach

Kelly is here to help.

Kelly Legg, Your Personal Online Admissions Coach

As a graduate of the WVU with a degree in business administration, Kelly understands your needs and is here to support and simplify the enrollment process for you. You can have open and honest discussions with her about how your passion in life can become your career. Contact Kelly today!

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Business Data Analytics M.S. Admission Requirements

Successful completion of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Admissions

Applicants must be admitted to WVU as a graduate student.

  • Create a username and password.
  • Once an account has been created, applicants can edit the application at their discretion. Please complete all questions asked.
  • Upload an up-to-date resume: Your resume should include enough information for the admissions committee to trace your entire professional work history and should indicate any relevant affiliations.
  • Request 1 letter of recommendation through the online portal. Individual letters should not exceed one page: We recommend that your reference provide some information that is not found in the other materials being submitted. Topics with regards to your ability to work with others, your discipline and ambition, leadership potential, etc. should be addressed. Your reference letter(s) should cover aptitudes necessary for your success in the program to which you are applying.
  • Create a Statement of Purpose (not to exceed one page): Your statement of purpose should be a short, one-page essay which describes your interest in the program, why you wish to pursue the program at WVU, how the program will help you reach your career goals, and any additional information which may be necessary to understanding your candidacy.
  • Pay application fee.
  • Submit application.
  • Applicants will then need to send their transcripts to WVU's Office of Admissions. If the applicant's undergraduate school offers "e-script" (an official electronic copy of transcripts), email the transcripts to GraduateAdmissions@mail.wvu.edu. This will help expedite the admissions process. If they do not offer this service, please have your official transcripts mailed to:
    West Virginia University Office of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment
    PO Box 6510
    Morgantown, WV 26506-6510
  • International Students are required to submit a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score. The John Chambers College of Business & Economics TOEFL requirement is higher than the University's--applicants must have a TOEFL score of either 580 (paper prior to July 27) or 68 (paper after July 27), 237 (computer), or 92 (Internet-based). If you have taken the IELTS, the minimum score must be 6.5, and the minimum Duolingo score is a 105. English language exam scores should be sent to:
    Office of Admissions
    West Virginia University
    P.O. Box 6009
    Morgantown, WV 26506-6009.

The above-mentioned items are required for admission review. Additional documents may be requested after initial evaluation of a student’s admission application.

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Student and Faculty Spotlight

Learn more about student and faculty experiences in the Business Data Analytics M.S. program.

Scott Branham profile.

Scott Branham

"Not once did I feel alone, isolated, or like I could not ask for help. If anything, I felt even more connected."

Read More About Scott

Brad Price Profile

Brad Price

"To me, using analytics, data science, statistics, machine learning—and all the tools from the field—is helping people solve problems."

Read More About Brad

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Financial aid is available. Students are encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine their eligibility for federal and state funds as well as scholarships. WVU’s FAFSA Code is 003827.

Business Data Analytics M.S. total degree cost: $28,950 – Residents and Non-Residents

Credits Cost
1 $965
3 $2,895
6 $5,790
9 $8,685

Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies and living expenses. Please see the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage for how to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

Courses and Curriculum


Course Title Credit Hours
BUDA 510 Foundations of Business Intelligence 3
BUDA 515 Ethics and Data Collection 3
BUDA 520 Data Management 3
BUDA 525 Business Statistical Methods 1 3
BUDA 530 Business Statistical Methods 2 3
BUDA 535 Business Data Mining 3
BUDA 540 Decision Sciences and Analytics 3
BUDA 545 Business Simulation Modeling 3
BUDA 550 Business Data Visualization 3
BUDA 555 Business Analytics Practicum 3

Total Hours: 30

The future for Business Data Analytics students

M.S. Business Data Analytics graduates will understand emerging technology trends in the job market and be well-positioned, by way of their strong technology and analytical and quantitative skills, for career and lifelong success. Data analytics is a rapidly emerging segment in business and industry, and all indications are that it represents one of the fastest growing job markets and has a sustainable future. This program seeks to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and tools to successfully compete for a variety of positions in the emerging job market.

The Benefits of pursuing a Business Data Analytics degree

The educational goals and objectives of the M.S. in Business Data Analytics are as follows:

  • Students will be able to demonstrate expertise in statistical techniques, data mining, utilizing databases, and analytical tools.
  • Students will be able to apply data analytics to enhance the decision-making of the firm in performance metrics and measurement, risk indicators, assessment and response, and compliance.
  • Students will be able to use business analytics to synthesize data trends and competitive drivers.
  • Students will be able to communicate the analysis and findings of an analytics initiative in moving an organization forward.

Career Outlook for Business Data Analytics graduates

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the employment of data scientists is projected to grow 36% from 2021-2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some careers that a Business Data Analytics will prepare me for?

According to Indeed.com, some of the careers this degree will prepare you for include: operations and market research, financial analyst, consultant, programmer, computer systems analyst, business analyst, statistician, data scientist, data architect, and quantitative analyst.

How long will it take me to complete my M.S. in Business Data Analytics?

The M.S. program is designed for working professionals with one- and two-year plans of study, and many find they can apply the concepts learned to their work before graduation.

Is the Business Data Analytics degree accredited?

The program is AACSB accredited, which includes rigorous reviews of a schools mission, faculty qualifications, curricula, and ability to provide the highest-quality programs.

Why should I pursue my Business Data Analytics degree at WVU?

Some employed individuals find it challenging to pursue a master's degree through a traditional on-campus program due to the time required. Commuting back and forth to attend hour-long lectures on campus during the week can complicate the already demanding juggling act of work and family responsibilities.

If you can relate to this situation, exploring the possibility of obtaining an online graduate degree could be a viable alternative. However, it's important to note that not all online degrees are created equal. Conduct thorough research on the requirements of an online degree and assess how much flexibility you require in terms of lectures, readings, and coursework.

WVU Online

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Internal Student Complaint Process

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WVU Online
West Virginia University
PO Box 6800
Morgantown, WV 26506-6800


Phone: (800) 253-2762
Email: WVUOnlineInquiry@mail.wvu.edu

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