Top-ranked Foster School of Business launches Master of Science in Business Analytics degree

Big data meets business strategy in a new 12-month Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) degree from the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business. Starting in June 2019, this evening and weekend program addresses a growing need for business leaders with strong analytical skills. According to McKinsey & Company’s big data report, the United States could face a shortage of up to 1.5 million managers with the ability to analyze big data to make effective decisions.

“Business intelligence has contributed to extraordinary growth in Seattle’s business community,” said Foster School Dean James Jiambalvo. “This cutting-edge program was developed with input from business leaders to meet their needs for analysts and managers who can lead data-driven initiatives.”

“The Foster School of Business already has an excellent reputation in the region and beyond,” said John Busby, chief analytics officer at Centerfield Media, a leading marketing services company. “I would recommend the Master of Science in Business Analytics program because it has the ideal curriculum for the candidates I’m hiring: business analytics, management skills, and operational skills.”

#1 business school in the U.S. for technology recruitment

According to Poets and Quants’ analysis, Foster is the top business school in the country for technology recruitment. Graduates from Foster master’s degree programs are working for companies such as Facebook, Tableau, T-Mobile, Apple, Accenture, Nordstrom, EY, Avvo, Analytics Pros, Boeing, and Expeditors.

Seattle a hub for big data analytics, cloud computing and artificial intelligence

“We’re in the middle of this revolution in Seattle with Amazon and Microsoft,” asserts Oliver Rutz, faculty director for the MSBA Program and Marion B. Ingersoll associate professor of marketing. “Our whole community here is focused around analytics data and technology.” Rutz confirms that Foster has hired a slate of new faculty with data modeling, analytics, and digital media expertise to deliver the latest research in the classroom. Known as an academic powerhouse, Foster is ranked #3 in the world for research by The Financial Times.

Master of Science in Business Analytics – a high-demand degree in just 12 months

Accessible to working professionals, the MSBA program accelerates career growth with a rigorous curriculum that integrates 50% business fundamentals with 50% data management and analysis models, coding, and machine learning. But just as important are the teamwork and leadership skills that prepare graduates to develop strategic recommendations and move their initiatives forward in the organization.

“We’re looking for data and research enthusiasts with strong quantitative skills who want to learn the language of business, as well as business professionals with analytical experience who want to deepen their technical expertise,” said MSBA program director Sara Jones. “In this program, you’ll be part of a class of problem-solvers and go-getters who bring diverse perspectives and skills, with one thing in common: a love of data.”

On-campus program fosters networking, leadership

The accelerated, in-person learning format focuses on building connections with employers and classmates, demonstrating leadership skills through hands-on projects, and working toward career goals with personalized coaching.

A STEM-designated program, the Master of Science in Business Analytics total program fees will be $41,400 for Washington residents and $52,400 for non-residents. The admissions application will become available pending approval by the NW Commission of Colleges & Universities.

More information about the program, and to sign up for admissions updates, visit  www.foster.uw.edu/msba