The Master of Science in Business Data Science & Analytics (MSBDSA) is a fully online, STEM-designated program for current and emerging professionals seeking to advance their careers in the rapidly growing field of business analytics and data science. Through this flexible program, students develop practical expertise in business analytics, machine learning, AI governance, statistical modeling, and data-driven decision making while building the leadership perspective needed to guide strategy in modern organizations.
The 30-credit STEM master’s degree is designed to fit the schedules of working professionals and can be completed in 20 months. MSBDSA students complete 30 credits, including a 21-credit core that awards two graduate certificates in Advanced Analytics Applications and Data-Driven Decision Making. Students also complete an additional 9 credits in a third certificate pathway, choosing either Business Essentials or Organizational Leadership and Strategy. Graduates leave the program with the MSBDSA degree and three transcriptable graduate certificates, preparing them to lead with confidence in data-driven organizations across a wide range of industries. This structure allows students to graduate with four credentials: one master’s degree and three graduate certificates.
Graduates of the MSBDSA program develop advanced skills in business analytics, machine learning, AI governance, and data-driven decision-making that are essential for today’s data-focused organizations. Through applied coursework and hands-on projects, students learn how to translate complex data into strategic insights that guide business decisions. As part of the program, students also earn three graduate certificates that demonstrate expertise in advanced analytics, data-driven decision making, and a selected business concentration. These combined credentials prepare graduates to lead analytics initiatives, guide strategy, and contribute to innovation across industries.
Graduates of the MSBDSA program are prepared to pursue advanced roles in analytics, data science, and business intelligence across a wide range of industries. Career paths include positions such as data analyst, data scientist, business intelligence developer, analytics consultant, AI governance specialist, and solutions architect.
As organizations continue to rely on data to guide strategy and operations, professionals with advanced analytics and decision science expertise are in high demand.
The MSBDSA program equips graduates with the technical and leadership capabilities needed to translate data into strategic insight and organizational impact. With strong demand for analytics professionals across industries such as technology, healthcare, finance, consulting, and marketing, graduates are positioned for roles that offer significant growth potential and competitive salaries, often ranging from approximately $85,000 to $130,000 or more, depending on experience and role.
The degree is billed in block tuition equally over 5 semesters.
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As one of the top research universities in the world, Michigan State University has advanced the common good with uncommon will since 1855.
MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community.
MSU has been offering online degree programs since 1998. Our maturity is evident in the high quality of the learning experience enjoyed by our online students.
MSU provides programs and initiatives that support and enhance diversity. We will expand our campus and external partnerships to put in place inclusive recruitment and retention practices. We nurture and promote individuals’ varied experiences and perspectives, ensuring structures and processes make possible full participation by all members of our community.
MSU actively collaborates with campus and external partners to innovate across all dimensions of graduate education. We create and support networks that increase collaboration and improve educational opportunities for our online students.
MSU’s nationally recognized online programs foster student growth and well-being throughout their academic career. We will expand inclusive mentoring practices and accelerate improvement across units to implement evidence-based practices to ensure our students complete successfully.
Continuing education can be one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding experiences you undertake in your life. We hope you consider becoming a Spartan, to learn online and reach your career goals. With highly ranked online programs and exceptional professors, we educate students who advance the common good with uncommon will.
Includes the integrated certificates in Advanced Analytics Applications and Data-Driven Decision Making
Students complete one of the following certificate pathways:
Business Essentials Certificate
Organizational Leadership and Strategy Certificate
International applicants may also be required to submit: