Business analytics degrees are designed to prepare you for a career in the fields of information technology and business.
A bachelors in business analytics can teach you how to gather, analyze, and transform data to drive business decisions and help businesses enhance their performance and increase profits.
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Technological advances have made it easier for businesses to extract and manage data more efficiently. Business analysts play a vital role in handling business data and informing key stakeholders on improvements that can be made based on data insights.
Online Business Analytics Degrees
A bachelor’s degree in business analytics can teach you about business operations, information technology (IT), and statistics topics to help you understand how to analyze and interpret business data.
The degree can be useful for many careers in the fields of computer science and IT in the business environment. Some of the major focuses in a business analyst degree include foundational business topics such as marketing, management, accounting, and finance.
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Data analytics courses offered in the program concentrate on business analytics, which include various techniques and tools used to gather, interpret, and present business data. You may also be introduced to different software and programming languages, such as Tableau and SQL.
Throughout the program, you can develop essential skills and knowledge that are applicable to a variety of business and data analytics careers. For instance, some graduates go on to become:
- Top executives
- Management analysts
- Financial analysts
- Project management specialists
- Marketing specialists
- Operations research analysts
Business analytics has become increasingly important as more businesses are relying on data insights to make decisions.
Business data can be used to help improve marketing strategies by understanding consumer behaviors. It’s also used to increase overall operational efficiency. Bachelors in business analytics degrees online offer a more flexible, convenient way to learn because you may be able to tailor your class schedule to fit your needs.
While online instruction has less face-to-face interaction, live instruction classes and hands-on projects may be offered throughout the program to give you a more immersive educational experience.
Common Online Business Analytics Bachelor’s Concentrations
Some colleges and universities offer concentrations so you can incorporate a specific area of study into your learning experience. Here are some examples of concentrations typically offered with business analytics programs:
- Accounting. This concentration can be useful if you’re interested in a business analytics career in the finance or accounting sector of the business industry. It typically explores taxation, auditing, and financial accounting topics.
- Human Resources. This concentration covers the fundamentals of human resources operations, which can include coursework in organizational behavior and staff training and development.
- Digital Marketing. This concentration can help you develop key marketing skills and strategies applicable to the digital world. It will likely cover topics like marketing technology and marketing analytics.
- Entrepreneurship. This concentration explores basic concepts and fundamentals of entrepreneurial ventures, with a focus on strategies used to identify and plan new business ventures.
- Retail Management. This concentration can introduce you to management strategies and operations in the retail industry.
A concentration can be useful if you have your sights set on a specific business analytics career and want to customize your education experience to support your goals.
Business Analytics Careers & Salaries
A business analytics bachelor’s degree can help prepare you for a variety of lucrative business analytics careers.
Many businesses rely on data to make informed decisions. So, business analytics professionals are needed to help businesses evaluate and interpret data in an effort to increase profitability and efficiency.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are the annual median salaries of some careers that may be attainable with a bachelor’s degree in business analytics.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Data Scientists | $103,500 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $102,240 |
| Database Administrators | $99,890 |
| General and Operations Managers | $98,100 |
| Project Management Specialists | $95,370 |
| Management Analysts | $95,290 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $85,720 |
| Budget Analysts | $82,260 |
| Logisticians | $77,520 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | $68,230 |
The curriculum of a business analyst degree is designed to teach you the fundamentals of business operations and data analysis. You can apply what you’ve learned to various sectors within the business environment, such as marketing, finance, and human resources.
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Some responsibilities business analysts have include gathering and interpreting data to make data-driven decisions, identifying areas of a business that can be improved, and using data visualization tools to present findings to key stakeholders.
Bachelor of Business Analytics Curriculum & Courses
A bachelors in business analytics combines IT courses with major business coursework to create a well-rounded education experience for aspiring business and data analyst professionals.
These are some common business analytics courses offered at the bachelor’s level:
- Introduction to Computer Technology and Analytics: You can learn about the fundamentals of computer technology and information systems, including technologies and tools used for data analytics.
- Fundamentals of Business Finance: This course can introduce you to basic concepts pertaining to managerial finance operations in the business environment, such as risk assessment and capital budgeting.
- Introduction to Business Analytics: This course explores concepts, techniques, and tools used to collect, analyze, and manage business data.
- Introduction to Information Systems: This course can introduce you to the common uses of information systems in the business environment and how information systems help transform businesses.
- Business Data Mining: This course explores methods and industry tools used to mine and evaluate business data.
- Big Data Analytics in Business: You can learn techniques used to mine big data for businesses as well as how big data programming and industry tools are used to interpret and transform big data.
- IT Project Management: This course can help you develop project management skills in the IT department of a business, such as how to manage and schedule projects and mitigate risks.
- Introduction to Marketing: This course explores basic marketing principles and strategies, such as advertising and understanding consumer behaviors.
- Fundamentals of Accounting: This introductory accounting course can help you gain an understanding of business accounting procedures and how businesses use accounting information to make decisions.
- Data Management: You can learn how to gather, evaluate, and manage data by learning about databases, data transformation, and data analysis tools.
Some programs also offer concentrations, which can influence coursework options.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements can vary for bachelor’s programs depending on the college or university, but these are some general requirements typically requested:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Official transcripts
- SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
- Personal statement or essay
Along with an admissions application, SAT and ACT test scores may be requested by some schools to determine admissions eligibility or placement level for general education courses.
Some undergraduate applications include a personal statement section that asks you to answer a specific question in detail so the admissions office can learn more about you.
Accreditation
Colleges and universities can seek regional accreditation by going through a rigorous screening process conducted by a regional accrediting organization.
Accrediting agencies establish criteria used to determine the quality of a school’s educational offerings and other resources. You can review a list of regional accrediting organizations and accredited institutions using the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s directory of recognized organizations and schools.
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Accreditation can be important for graduate admissions, internship and employment opportunities, and federal financial aid eligibility. A degree from an accredited institution may be required to be considered for federal aid or graduate admissions.
Business Analytics Majors Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial aid can assist qualifying students in paying for the upfront costs of college. These are different forms of financial aid you can apply for:
- Grants. Grants are usually non-repayable forms of financial aid that may be given to you by the state or federal government if you demonstrate financial need.
- Loans. Loans can come from public or private institutions and need to be repaid. Student loans from the government often have lower interest rates.
- Scholarships. Scholarships are non-repayable forms of aid offered by many different public and private organizations, and they typically require the submission of an application.
- Federal work-study programs. These programs assign students who are eligible for federal aid to a part-time job to help pay for college.
To apply for federal financial aid, you can submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through the US Department of Education.
What Is a Business Analytics Major?
A business analytics major is a technical area of study that focuses on business practices and data analysis methods.
Part of the program can introduce you to business fundamentals, while the other portion studies data collection, analysis, and transformation. The main goal of a business analytics major is to teach you how to analyze and interpret data for businesses to promote efficiency and profitability.
You may have assignments that give you hands-on experience navigating information systems, databases, and data analysis tools commonly used in the business industry. This major can help you develop project management, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Is Business Analytics a STEM Major?
STEM majors include any educational programs that revolve around science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
Business analytics is generally considered a STEM major because it’s very technical in nature. Several courses offered in the program focus on mathematical and IT topics, which are classified as STEM subjects. While a business major isn’t considered a STEM program, the data analytics side of the degree is STEM related.
In addition, some business analytics majors pursue STEM-related careers, such as business intelligence specialist.
What Can You Do with a Business Analytics Degree?
Since a business analytics degree combines business major coursework with data analysis topics, the degree can be applicable to careers in IT and business.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for most business and data analytics careers. Potential career paths for business analytics professionals include:
- Project management specialist
- Management analyst
- Market research analyst
- Operations research analyst
- Business intelligence specialist
Business analysts assess the performance of businesses and identify ways to improve efficiency and increase profitability using data insights. Some professionals specialize in specific areas, such as marketing, finance, or cybersecurity.
Is Business Analytics a Good Major?
Yes, business analytics is a good major for many undergraduate students.
As more businesses rely on data to make informed decisions, business analytics has become an attractive degree for many students interested in a data analytics career in the business environment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for many analyst jobs is higher than the national average. The median wage for business and financial occupations overall is $76,850.
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Business analytics can also give you some flexibility in career options, as it may help you qualify for a variety of jobs. For example, related roles can include financial analyst, database administrator, market research analyst, and operations research analyst.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s in Business Analytics Online Degree?
A traditional online bachelor’s degree program typically requires at least 120 credit hours to graduate. To be considered a full-time student, most colleges and universities require students to take at least 12 credit hours per semester.
If you enroll in a traditional, 16 week semester program as a full-time student, it will generally take 4 years to complete. Enrolling as a part-time student can add on more time. Some schools offer accelerated online programs with 8 week semester schedules that can be completed in less than 4 years.
What’s the Difference Between an Online Degree in Business Analytics vs. Data Analytics?
While business analytics and data analytics degrees have some overlapping subject areas, the main difference that separates these degrees is what data is used for.
- Degree in Business Analytics: This degree focuses on how data is used to understand a business’ performance and make data-driven business decisions.
- Degree in Data Analytics: This degree examines methods used to analyze data to identify patterns, make predictions, and draw conclusions from the information gathered.
Data analytics is more broad in terms of what data is used for, whereas business analytics concentrates on using data to make decisions in the business environment.
What’s the Difference Between a Business Intelligence vs. Business Analytics Bachelor Degree?
A bachelor’s degree in business analytics is similar to a business intelligence degree because both programs introduce students to data analytics tools and techniques.
- Bachelors in Business Intelligence: This degree focuses on using data to create reports and inspect the current daily operations of a business using data.
- Bachelors in Business Analytics: This degree teaches students how data can be used to make predictions and guide data-driven decisions.
Business intelligence is more concerned with gathering and storing data to keep track of a business’s daily operations. Business analytics pertains to using data insights for future business decisions.
Is a Bachelor Degree in Business Data Analytics Worth It?
Yes, a bachelor degree in business data analytics is worth it for many students.
Many entry-level to mid-level data analyst positions can be pursued with a bachelor’s degree in business analytics. Data analyst jobs in the business environment are expected to have continuous growth over the next several years due to businesses’ needs to organize and transform data for various purposes.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, analyst jobs like operations research analyst and management analyst are projected to see 23% and 11% job growth, respectively, over the next ten years. These growth rates are much faster than the average for all occupations.
Universities Offering Online Bachelor in Business Analytics Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
American Public University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. Several concentrations are available in subjects like Accounting, Human Resources, Marketing, Security and Intelligence, Entrepreneurship, and Real Estate Management. Courses are online and last 8 to 16 weeks. Up to 90 of the 120 required credits may be transferred from outside institutions.
APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Arizona State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics. Potential courses include Business Data Mining, Business Data Warehoused and Dimensional Modeling, and Enterprise Analytics. The curriculum consists of 41 courses, which are each 7.5 weeks long. All classes meet online.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Bay Path University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business with a specialization in Business Analytics. Graduates commonly pursue careers in fields like business, management, data, marketing, operations, or finance. This program is housed conveniently online. On average, the 120 required credits can be completed in 3.5 years when attending classes full-time.
Bay Path University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. This program may be a fit for those interested in leveraging data to improve business and plan to pursue further study in the field. After the completion of general education requirements, 45 major credits are required. Classes meet fully online.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
City University of Seattle offers a Bachelor of Science in Business and Data Analytics. The curriculum covers topics like data acquisition, analysis and modeling, business solution optimization, decision-making, and strategy development. The program utilizes a convenient online learning model and requires 180 credits.
CityU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Colorado State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics. The program aims to develop research, database management, data analysis, and decision-making skills. The curriculum consists of 120 credits. Graduates commonly pursue careers as database administrators, network architects, data managers, IT project managers, and security management specialists.
Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Columbia College offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. Courses cover key data analysis topics, including strategic planning, workflow optimization, and business model assessment. The degree is offered through traditional on-campus, evening, or online classes. On average, the program can be completed in 4 years of full-time study.
Columbia College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
DeVry University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business. The degree can be customized with several concentrations including Business Intelligence and Analytics Management, Business Administration, Project Management, or Accounting. Classes meet fully online or using a hybrid of online and in-person coursework. The program can be completed in as few as 32 months.
DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. This program focuses on sourcing data, database and data manipulation, statistics and computation, output and visualization, and storytelling. The curriculum consists of 120 credits. The degree can be completed entirely online or in person.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Florida International University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Analytics. This program may be a good fit for those interested in pursuing entry-level business analytics and reporting roles. The curriculum covers key concepts like data mining and management, analysis and strategic planning, business intelligence, and information technology All classes meet online.
Florida International University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Georgia State University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Business Analytics. This program is designed to help those who have previously completed part of a bachelor’s degree and wish to finish their graduation requirements. On average, the required 60 credits can be completed in 2 years. Incoming students are admitted 3 times each year.
Georgia State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Golden Gate University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business. The degree can be customized with minors in International Business, Data Analytics, Management, Information Technology, or Organizational Leadership. This program is housed conveniently online and requires 120 credits.
GGU is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Grand Canyon University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. This program combines foundational concepts from marketing, accounting, finance, economics, management, and information science. The program requires 120 credits. The curriculum aims to teach skills in business communications, information literacy, data analysis, business operations, ethical decision-making, and business analytics.
GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Louisiana State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. Potential courses include Financial Modeling and Analytics, Human Resource Management, Principles of Marketing, and Predictive Analysis. All classes utilize a flexible online learning model. On average, the 120 required credits can be completed in 4 years.
Louisiana State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Oregon State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. Available specializations include Digital Marketing Analytics, Human Resource Analytics, Market Research and Consumer Analytics, and Sports Business. The 180 required credits can be completed online. The program offers 4 start dates each year.
Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Regent University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. Graduates may pursue careers as business analytics managers, analytics consultants, data mining specialists, analytics consultants, data analytics specialists, and data visualization analysts. Classes can be attended entirely online or on campus. The program requires 120 credits.
Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth offers a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management. The concentration in Business Analytics is designed for those passionate about technology and data. The 120 credit curriculum covers topics like computer technology, quantitative methods, supply chain management, and strategic planning.
UMass Dartmouth is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Phoenix offers a Bachelor of Science in Business. The Business Analytics certificate may be an ideal addition for those interested in pursuing leadership and information technology roles in diverse fields. Up to 75% of their degree requirements may be transferred into the program. All classes meet entirely online.
The University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
William Paterson University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Applied Business Analytics. Potential courses include Business Data Management, Predictive Modeling and Analytics, and Programming for Business Analytics. The program requires 120 credits and offers 4 start dates each year.
William Paterson University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Wilmington University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. Courses cover concepts like project management, predictive analysis, data mining, visualization, economics, and business intelligence. The 120 credit curriculum can be completed online or in person. The school offers 8 start dates throughout the year.
Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Getting Your Bachelor in Business Analytics Degree Online
A business analytics degree can help prepare you for a lucrative career as an analyst in the business environment.
Business analysts are an important part of business and IT teams because they help organizations make sense of data to make decisions and increase their overall performance. With a bachelor’s in business analytics, you can develop a diverse set of skills that are applicable to virtually any industry. A background in probability and statistics could be helpful for studying business analytics topics.
You can begin the process of earning a business analytics bachelor’s degree online by researching programs from accredited schools that best support your interests and goals.
