Master of Science in Business Analytics
Initiated in 2013, the GW School of Business MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) program trains students to master real-world analytics and consulting skills for effective data-driven decision making. Since its inception, the program has worked with leading analytics organizations (including IBM and Deloitte) to develop, and continue to enhance, a rigorous and balanced curriculum that encompasses the technical, quantitative and qualitative skills for effectively developing, deploying and communicating business analytics solutions.
The curriculum is a distinctive blend of analytics methods (descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive), applications (elective courses in analytics applied to a specific functional area or industry), soft skills (consulting, communication and team dynamics), and technology (SAS tools, R, Python, SQL, no-SQL and other current and trending technologies). The culmination of the course of study is a practicum project in which students work within a team of peers to apply their newly acquired expertise to real-world business challenges sponsored by our partner industry organizations.
The program closely collaborates with its Advisory Group of leading analytics organizations (such as IBM, Deloitte, SAS, Accenture, MITRE and Attain) on the development and overall growth of the MSBA program, assisting students with their practicum projects, and providing career development and networking opportunities.
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- Contact Us
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The George Washington University School of Business
Master of Science in Business Analytics
2201 G St. NW, Funger Hall, Ste. 415
Washington, D.C. 20052Phone: 202-994-6145
Email: [email protected]
Learn About Business Analytics at GWSB
In this episode of the GWSB Proud podcast, we discuss the fast-changing world of business analytics as well as the difference between a traditional data science role in an organization and one of a business analyst. We learn about how the newly revised MS in Business Analytics program at the GW School of Business has been shaped to respond to innovations in the field and the new demands of industry. The difference between our two related graduate certificates, Analytics for Managers and Business Analytics, also is explained.
Joining us in the studio are Dr. Murat Tarimcilar, professor and faculty director of the Department of Decision Sciences; Brian Murrow, adjunct professor and managing partner at Cherry Bekaert; and Alfred Hull, GWSB alumnus and senior data scientist at the Department of the Army.
Read a transcript of this episode with Prof. Murat Tarimcilar, Brian Murrow and Alfred Hull
Curriculum
The MS in Business Analytics curriculum is a distinctive blend of methods, applications, skills and technology.
- Methods: Descriptive, Predictive, and Prescriptive Analytics.
- Applications: Elective courses in Analytics applied to a specific functional area or industry.
- Skills: Workshops in communication and consulting.
- Technology: Hands-on exposure to industry standard Analytics tools/software including emphasis on the SAS tools suite, R Programming, Python, SQL, no-SQL, Tableau and other current and trending technologies.
The following requirements are for students who matriculate into the Master of Science in Business Analytics program starting fall 2018. Students who matriculated into the MSBA program prior to fall 2018 should refer to their DegreeMAPs in GWeb for any outstanding requirements they may have.
The Master of Science in Business Analytics program is 30 credit hours long. Three-credit courses are a full semester long (14 weeks). Courses that are 1.5 credits are seven weeks in length and are offered either in the first or second half of a semester.
Students must successfully complete the following course and program requirements to be eligible for the MS in Business Analytics degree.
Program Requirements
- Achieve at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average at the time of graduation.
- Complete all degree requirements within five (5) years.
Combined Degree Options
This degree may be combined with a bachelor's degree through GWSB's new 4+1 Program, which enables students to complete both a bachelor's and a master's degree in five years. 4+1 Program options, eligibility and degree paths are outlined on the 4+1 Program page.
Credits
The MSBA program is 30 credit hours long. Three-credit courses are a full semester long (14 weeks). Courses that are 1.5 credits are seven weeks in length and are offered either in the first or second half of a semester.
Course Requirements
The following requirements must be fulfilled: 30 credits, including 21 credits in required courses and 9 credits in elective courses.
Code | Title | Credits |
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Required | ||
DNSC 6301 | Analytics Edge and Data Ethics | |
DNSC 6302 | Programming for Analytics I | |
DNSC 6303 | Programming for Analytics II | |
DNSC 6305 | Data Management for Analytics | |
DNSC 6306 | Decision Models | |
DNSC 6307 | Optimization I | |
DNSC 6311 | Stochastic Foundation: Probability Models | |
DNSC 6312 | Statistics for Analytics I | |
DNSC 6313 | Statistics for Analytics II | |
DNSC 6314 | Machine Learning I | |
DNSC 6315 | Machine Learning II | |
DNSC 6317 | Business Analytics Practicum | |
Electives | ||
9 credits in elective courses selected from the following: | ||
DNSC 6278 | Big Data Analytics | |
DNSC 6280 | Supply Chain Analytics | |
DNSC 6290 | Special Topics | |
DNSC 6308 | Optimization II | |
DNSC 6319 | Time Series Forecasting for Analytics | |
DNSC 6320 | Pricing and Revenue Management | |
DNSC 6321 | Social Network Analytics | |
DNSC 6323 | Visualization for Analytics | |
DNSC 6325 | Business Process Simulation | |
DNSC 6327 | Sports Analytics | |
DNSC 6330 | Responsible Machine Learning | |
DNSC 6331 | Customer Analytics | |
IBUS 6101 | Big Data for International Business |
Admissions
Admission to the MSBA program is highly competitive and enrollment is limited. Students operate in two cohorts throughout the academic year.
Due to the rolling admissions policy, it is highly recommended that candidates submit applications early. The candidate’s major and trend in grades, personal achievements, and letters of recommendation also affect the admission decision. This program seeks social, ethnic, cultural and geographical diversity in its student body.
- Prerequisites
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- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- Strong academic performance
- Demonstrated professional interest in business analytics
- Admissions Process
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Applying to a program at the GW School of Business may seem like a complicated process, but the GWSB admissions team is here to help. The application process for this program can be found on our How to Apply page. All application materials should be sent to the GWSB Graduate Admissions Office. The GRE or GMAT test is not required — however, if you feel that submitting your scores will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them. We also offer a wealth of resources to help you finance your degree, from scholarships and fellowships to loans and work-study arrangements.
- Application Requirements
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To be considered complete, the following must be included in the application:
- Completed online application form
- Application fee (non-refundable)
- Current résumé uploaded through the online application system
- One letter of recommendation from a professional and/or academic reference
- Statement of Purpose: In no more than 500 words, describe how this program fits into your professional life and your career objectives.
- Additional Application Requirements
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- Upload copies of your transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, whether or not the program was completed or the credit appears as a transfer credit on another transcript. Note that admitted students will be required to submit official, sealed transcripts with proof of bachelor’s degree. There is no need to submit them at the time when you first apply.
- The GRE or GMAT test is not required for this program — however, if you feel that submitting your scores will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them. Learn more about our test-optional policy on the How to Apply page. GW School of Business applicants interested in taking the exam can benefit from 10% off any Kaplan GMAT or GRE preparation course. Use discount code GWUSB10.
- International Applicants
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Applicants who require a visa to study in the United States must also fulfill additional requirements in order to be considered for admission to a graduate program at the School of Business. Please visit our How to Apply page for further details.
Qualifications & Prerequisites
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- Strong academic performance
- Demonstrated professional interest in business analytics
Prerequisites
Successful applicants to GWSB’s Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program will have exposure and experience* in the following areas:
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Statistics
Applicants should have taken and obtained a B or higher in an undergraduate or graduate statistics course within the last five years, be able to demonstrate regular use of statistics in a current or past professional position, or be able to demonstrate an adequate understanding of statistics in another way. -
Higher Level Mathematics (Calculus and Linear Algebra)
In general, students should be able to demonstrate regular use of mathematics principles and methods and an adequate understanding of calculus and basic linear algebra. Applicants should have taken and obtained a B or higher in undergraduate or graduate level Calculus classes, including Calculus I (MATH1231) and Calculus II (equivalent to MATH1232). In addition, students are expected to have had some academic exposure to topics in Linear Algebra and Finite Math (equivalent to MATH1051). -
Computer Programming
Applicants should be able to demonstrate adequate exposure to and understanding of basic computer programming and software principles. Applicants do not need to have a specific understanding of analytics-based computer programs and software. Instead, the goal is for applicants to demonstrate that they are capable of learning the specific programs emphasized in the MSBA program.
*Applicants may satisfy the above prerequisites through an online offering such as Coursera.
Admissions Process
Applying to a program at the GW School of Business may seem like a complicated process, but the GWSB admissions team is here to help. The application process for the MSBA program can be found on our How to Apply page. All application materials should be sent to the GWSB Graduate Admissions Office. The GRE or GMAT test is not required — however, if you feel that submitting your scores will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them.
Other Application Requirements
To be considered complete, the following additional documents must be included in the online application:
- Two letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic references
Candidates may also be invited to a brief interview.
International Applicants
- STEM designation
The GW MSBA degree is a STEM-designated degree program. International students of the MSBA program are eligible for up to a 24-month extension (36 months total) for their OPT upon graduation. - 4-Year Bachelor's Degree*
The GW MSBA program cannot consider applicants with 3-year bachelor degrees unless they have completed a minimum of one year of subsequent graduate education.
*A 4-year Bachelor's degree is not required if you have received a subsequent degree from an accredited university in the United States or Canada.
Application Deadlines
Candidates seeking financial assistance and international students requiring visas are encouraged to apply early. Only completed applications, with all required materials, will be considered for admission.
- Spring 2025 - November 1, 2024
- Summer 2025 - November 1, 2024
- Fall 2025 - November 1, 2024
Please note that admission to the following programs is only offered for the Fall semester: Global MBA, Accelerated MBA, Master of Accountancy in Accounting Analytics, M.S. in Business Analytics, and the Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics. Summer admissions deadlines apply only to the Online MBA and Healthcare MBA programs; admission to all other programs is only offered for the Fall and Spring semesters. The MS in Finance and MS in Applied Finance programs, as well as our doctoral and executive education programs, each have different admissions deadlines.
Tuition and Other Costs
Explore tuition rates and fees, view health insurance and housing costs, and more.
- Tuition and Fees
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Please visit the Student Accounts Office for a complete list of tuition rates and fees.
- Other Expenses
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- Student Health Insurance
GW offers voluntary comprehensive health insurance through Aetna Student Health. All F-1 and J-1 international students are automatically enrolled. See the Student Health Insurance page for rates and other important information.
- Housing
View information about on-campus and off-campus housing for full-time GW graduate students.
- Student Health Insurance
Financial Resources
From scholarships and fellowships to loans and work-study arrangements, we offer a wealth of resources to help you finance your degree.
- GWSB Fellowships and Financial Support
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The GW School of Business offers merit-based fellowships to incoming students at the time of admission. While applying to graduate degree programs at GWSB, prospective students may opt in to be automatically considered for all fellowship award opportunities funded by the School of Business as well as various university-funded tuition awards administered by the Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships (OGSAF). Unless otherwise stated, no separate application is required.
In limited circumstances, current students may also be eligible for merit-based tuition fellowship awards.
- Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships
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The Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships (OGSAF) maintains a comprehensive database of GW and external fellowships to support graduate-level study and/or research. Incoming and current students are encouraged to browse the OGSAF website for information about additional merit-based funding opportunities.
- Federal Financial Aid
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U.S. Citizens and eligible non-citizens may qualify for:
- Federally sponsored education loans through the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan and Federal Graduate PLUS Loan Programs
- Need-based financial assistance through the Federal Work Study Program, which allows students to earn income while working part-time at pre-approved organizations during their program
To apply for federal financial aid, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the appropriate deadline using GW’s FAFSA school code: 001444. Please note that students must apply for federal financial aid each academic year.
Visit the Office of Student Financial Assistance for details about eligibility criteria, application steps, and deadlines. Information about alternate private and federal loans is also available.
- Tuition Discounts
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Employer Discounts
The GW School of Business offers a tuition discount to current employees of the following companies:
- Leidos
- Lockheed Martin
- Organization of American States (GS/OAS)
- SAIC
Please note that eligible programs vary by employer. View details about eligibility, conditions, and the application process.
- Veterans and Military
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Nationally recognized as a top military- and veteran-friendly university, GW offers a wealth of services and benefits to student veterans, military personnel, and dependents of the United States Armed Forces. As a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program, GW funds tuition expenses exceeding the maximum base pay amount covered through the GI Bill®, and its contributions are matched by the Department of Veteran Affairs.
For more information about the Yellow Ribbon Program and other education benefits, visit GW Veteran & Military Services (VMS).
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.
- Student Employment and Internships
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The F. David Fowler Career Center supports GWSB student and alumni professional development by providing career management resources, career fairs and expos, and employer information sessions. GWSB students also have access to employment services and resources provided through GW’s Center for Career Services.
Handshake is the official online recruiting platform and event calendar for the F. David Fowler Career Center and the Center for Career Services. To search for jobs and internships, find and register for events, and connect with career coaches, log in to Handshake.
Federal Work Study
The Federal Work Study Program is a federally-funded and need-based work program that allows GW students to earn income through part-time employment during the academic year at GW and other pre-approved organizations. Graduate students interested in the program must submit the FAFSA and apply through the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
The Center for Career Services provides awarded students assistance with finding positions. Visit the Center for Career Services for information about the Federal Work Study Program at GW.
International Students
Students studying at GW on F-1 or J-1 visas may have additional restrictions on their employment due to visa regulations. F-1 Students are required to obtain Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization from the International Services Office for all paid, off-campus internships and employment. GW-sponsored J-1 Exchange Visitors are required to obtain employment authorization for all employment, whether on-campus or off-campus.
For more information about the CPT application process, see GWSB Global & Experiential Education’s Curricular Practical Training page.
For information about how your visa status may affect your employment options, please visit the International Services Office.
- Billing and Payment Processing
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The Student Accounts Office manages all student accounts and processes student bills, refunds, disbursements, payment plan enrollment, employer reimbursements, third party billing, and financial holds. For inquiries regarding your Student eBill, tuition and fees, or payment options and due dates, visit the Student Accounts Office.