Online MBA with a Business Analytics Concentration

In the era of big data, companies must be prepared to use analytic tools to help them make and defend business decisions. By gaining a greater understanding of the tools and quantitative processes used in business analytics, you can help organizations of all shapes and sizes effectively strategize to meet their goals. 

The courses in the MBA business analytics concentration will help you develop the analytic and project management skills necessary to improve data-based practices in your organization, regardless of industry or sector.

In addition to a business analytics concentration for MBA students, the School of Business Administration also offers a one-year Master’s in Business Analytics. Learn more about the Master of Business Analytics program.

Data-driven decision-making is a priority for many organizations, and they need professionals with cutting-edge business analytics skills to help them determine the best step forward in any given situation. As a business analyst, you would provide invaluable service to your organization not only by analyzing data but also by presenting your findings effectively.

The learning outcomes for the online MBA business analytics concentration extend beyond applying data insights and analytics processes to help your organization make better decisions. You will also learn how to work effectively with teams of analysts and colleagues. The program provides opportunities to add to your professional network in MBA@Dayton’s face-to-face online classes and in-person immersions, where you will collaborate with peers and faculty members who have diverse perspectives on business analytics.

The business analytics MBA concentration is composed of 3-4 elective courses, for nine credits total. You can enroll in the electives at any time during the program once you have completed the core Business Analytics course and any individual prerequisites.

Learn more about the University of Dayton’s online MBA program and how you can advance your career in business analytics.

Steve Hall

Director of Center for Project Excellence, Full-Time Faculty

Steve Hall is an information technology and operations executive and strategist. He has over 30 years of managerial and technical leadership within publishing, distribution, manufacturing, health care and education, including experience in disciplines such as information systems, infrastructure, operations, telecommunications and engineering.

Michael F. Gorman

Professor

Michael Gorman’s fields of research include applied analytics, transportation, pedagogy and experiential learning. He has been awarded multiple international awards and a commendation from the General Assembly of the State of Ohio for excellence in teaching. Gorman has given more than 80 presentations at conferences and events.

The courses in the online MBA business analytics concentration draw on expertise provided by the University of Dayton’s Department of Management Information Systems (MIS), Operations Management (OM) and Decision Sciences. The department emphasizes real-world applications and scholarship, connecting faculty members, students and the business community. Faculty members are known for their research, commitment to teaching and service to the University and the community.

If you are interested in earning an MBA in business analytics, now could be a good time, due to the current business analytics job market.

One of the roles commonly pursued by professionals with a business analytics master’s degree is operations research analyst. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the operations research analyst outlook is expected to increase 25 from 2020 to 2030.¹ That rate of growth is considered much faster than the average for all occupations. About 10,200 openings for operations research analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade.¹

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also provides information on operations research analyst salaries. In May 2020, operations research analysts earned a median annual wage of $86,200 per year, or a median hourly wage of $41.44 per hour.¹

With such a large rise in the business analytics skills needed by organizations by 2026, the MBA in business analytics career outlook is promising for upcoming graduates.

Business analytics careers enable you to help organizations thrive in many different ways using your unique insights into the data you collect. Depending on your interests and abilities, you could pursue a variety of associated business analytics roles in many different contexts, including operations, marketing and finance. 

Earning an online MBA with a focus in business analytics prepares you to pursue a variety of roles in research and analysis. Here is a sample of some of the titles you may encounter while seeking to advance your career:

Business analysis job opportunities occur at many different levels, from junior and coordinator roles to manager, director and executive positions. Position titles may vary by organization, so be sure to consider a wide range of positions while you are conducting your job search. Your MBA in business analytics career path could take you in many directions based on how you would like to use your skills.

¹ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Operations Research Analysts (visited September 21, 2021)arrow_upwardReturn to footnote reference