Business Data Analytics, M.S.
John Chambers College of Business and Economics
The Master of Science in Business Data Analytics (BUDA) at WVU's John Chambers College of Business and Economics is where prescriptive analytics meets data science for business. This program equips you with techniques from operations research and management to enhance decision-making, alongside data management technologies, data mining, machine learning, and visualization methods to optimize business outcomes using large-scale data.
Cost:
$1,004 / Cost per credit hour *
Courses and Credits:
10 Courses / 30 Credits
Duration:
One to two years
Dates:
August 20, 2025 Admission Term: Fall
Learning Format:
Online courses, virtual residency
Program Overview
Develop Your Skills, Advance Your Career
After graduating from the program, you 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 you with the knowledge, skills, and tools to successfully compete for a variety of positions in the emerging job market. 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.
You will develop 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.
As a BUDA graduate, you 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
"WVU’s BUDA program had the right balance of technical and business curriculum, as well as a very competitive cost structure, that I felt made it the best option on the market."
Scott Branham
Business Data Analytics M.S.
Curriculum
Benefits of Pursuing a Business Data Analytics Degree
Our program aims to enhance your ability to use analytics and data science techniques to support informed business decisions and increase organizational value. Upon completing the BUDA program, you will have a thorough grasp on several skills and philosophies that are important to making an impact in the industry.
- Statistical Expertise: You will be able to demonstrate expertise in statistical techniques, data mining, utilizing databases, and analytical tools.
- Informed Data Analysis: You 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.
- Drive Trends: You will be able to use business analytics to synthesize data trends and competitive drivers.
- Effective Communication: The curriculum is designed to help you prepare to earn at least two technical certifications.
Meet the Faculty
- BUDA 510: Foundations of Business Intelligence, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 515: Big Data Technologies for Business, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 520: Data Management, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 525: Business Statistical Methods I, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 530: Business Statistical Methods II, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 535: Business Data Mining, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 540: Decision Sciences and Analytics, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 545: Business Simulation Modeling, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 550: Business Data Visualization, 3 credit hours
- BUDA 555: Business Analytics Practicum, 3 credit hours
Video: Experiential Learning
Admissions Events
Admissions Requirements and Eligibility
Successful completion of a Bachelor's Degree from a regionally accredited institution.
Admissions Process and How to Apply
- Complete the Online WVU Graduate Application
- 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.
- 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.
- Request 1 letter of recommendation through the online portal.
- Send a transcript 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.
- If they do not offer this service, please have your official transcripts mailed to: WVU Hub P.O. Box 6004 Morgantown, WV 26506
- International applicants must meet the WVU requirement of English language proficiency.
Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid
- File the application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the June deadline to determine eligibility for funding and scholarships.
- Inquire with your employer about potential financial support for continuing your education.
Connect with an Admissions Coach
Ann Clayton Online Admissions Coach
(304) 293-0915 ann.clayton@mail.wvu.edu
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Careers and Employment
Our Business Data Analytics M.S. program will prepare you to join a rapidly growing industry by equipping you with the tools and knowledge to succeed in a rewarding career in one of many disciplines throughout the diverse business landscape.
Career Paths
- Operations and Market Researcher
- Financial Analyst
- Business/Financial Consultant
- Business Programmer
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Business Analyst
- Statistician
- Data Scientist
- Data Architect
- Quantitative Analyist