In this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable online master’s in business intelligence programs of 2021.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of business and management analysts is projected to grow 11 percent through 2029, much faster than the average for all other occupations. In fact, the favorable job outlook has prompted more schools to offer programs suited for careers in the business intelligence niche. Online options are now available, making the shift from work to school a seamless one. Online master’s in business intelligence programs are offered at some of the nation’s most reputable and affordable colleges and universities.
30 Affordable Master’s in Business Intelligence Online Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 75 colleges and universities that offered online master’s in business intelligence programs. Selection criteria was based on accreditation and affordability. We gathered pertinent information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and verified accreditation on the school’s website. We then selected programs that cost less than $23,000 per year and ranked them according to raw affordability. We also considered school and program rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
Below is our list of 30 affordable online master’s in business intelligence programs of 2021.
#30 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Online Master’s in Data Analytics
University Park, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,186
Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers an online master’s in business intelligence consisting of 30 credits with no on-campus requirements. Students with a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree or its international equivalent are welcome to apply. Preference is given to those with degrees in quantitative disciplines such as engineering, science, and business. Applicants with other majors will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. GRE/GMAT waivers are available to those with a graduate degree, 3.2 minimum GPA, or a graduate certificate. Required courses include applied statistics, data mining, and foundations of predictive analytics. Penn State World is ranked #9 in best online business analytics programs according to U.S. News and World Report.
#29 – Seattle University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Seattle, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,105
Through its Albers School of Business and Economics, Seattle University offers one of the top master’s in business intelligence online training students to take data and create actionable strategies. As firms and organizations rely more on data analysis, skills taught in this program may lead to top opportunities working in cutting-edge fields and markets. The 48-credit-hour program can be completed in just two years and features four annual start dates so applicants do not have to wait to begin their degree, should they be accepted. The program is entirely online except for one residency retreat offered each quarter. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Seattle University ranks #124 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#28 – Quinnipiac University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Hamden, Connecticut
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,730
Quinnipiac University offers an online master’s in business analytics designed for working professionals seeking to leverage a master’s degree into future career opportunities. The admission process requires a personal statement, resume, three letters of recommendation, and a 3.0 minimum GPA. Candidates should possess a quantitative-based undergraduate degree such as actuarial sciences, computer science, engineering, mathematics, or natural sciences. The 33-credit program features coursework such as business design and object oriented analysis, introduction to Python programming for data analytics, and web analytics and web intelligence. U.S. News and World Report ranks Quinnipiac University #153 in national universities and #303 in social mobility.
#27 – Fairfield University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Fairfield, Connecticut
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,890
The Charles F. Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University features one of the top online business intelligence programs featuring courses such as business forecasting and predictive analytics, databases for business analytics, and machine learning for predictive analytics. Admission requirements include a personal resume, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and test scores (GRE/GMAT). Test score waivers are available. The program is available fully online with no campus residency requirements. Students from all undergraduate academic backgrounds are welcome to apply. Students may be required to complete pre-requisite coursework in college mathematics and statistics and/or Python programming. Fairfield is ranked #3 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.
#26 – Full Sail University
Online Master’s in Business Intelligence
Winter Park, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,940
Full Sail University offers a master’s in business intelligence online for working professionals seeking a fully online master’s program teaching them advanced data analytics knowledge and skills. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree in a similar field as the intended graduate program and a 2.0 minimum GPA. Students with a GPA lower than 2.5 must submit a resume, college transcripts, and letter of intent. GRE or GMAT test scores are not required. The program features courses such as business intelligence leadership and communication skills, foundations of business intelligence, data visualization and creative reporting, and process modeling and analysis. The program can be completed in just 12 months.
#25 – Creighton University
Online Master’s in Business Intelligence and Analytics
Omaha, Nebraska
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,898
Creighton University offers an online master’s in business intelligence housed within the Heider College of Business. The program’s coursework is based on three distinct pillars of managing data, using analytical tools to gain insight, and the capacity to communicate the results of data analysis to various stakeholders. The program is built for working professionals who value flexibility in their coursework along with the rigor provided by a Creighton degree. Students can take the program entirely online or in a hybrid format. It can be completed in as little as two years. Creighton ranks #112 in national universities according to U.S. News and World Report.
#24 – Saint Joseph’s University
Online Master’s in Business Intelligence and Analytics
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,334
Administered by the Department of Decision and System Sciences, Saint Joseph’s University offers a top-rated master’s in business intelligence online with four distinct tracks including cyber analytics, data analytics, data science, and managerial. The 30-credit program features a balanced curriculum with coursework that alternates between theory and application, resulting in a well-rounded practitioner and critical thinker. Courses include concepts and practice of DSS modeling, database management theory and practice, and data visualization and performance management. The program is built on the certification standards created by SAS, Inc., the leading business intelligence software provider in the world. Saint Joseph’s ranks #8 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.
#23 – Regent University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,952
Regent University offers an online master’s in business analytics providing comprehensive training and coursework in one of the most in-demand fields. As the reliance on big data increases, firms are actively seeking individuals with the skill and knowledge to organize and interpret how data can be leveraged into better decision-making leading to better business outcomes. Courses may include business decision making, corporate ethics and data privacy, data mining and web analytics, and foundations of analytics. Applicants must hold a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree. No test scores are required to apply. Regent University ranks #298 in U.S. News and World Report’s national universities category.
#22 – William & Mary
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Williamsburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,440
Ranked as one of our most affordable online business intelligence programs, William & Mary offers its program through its renowned Raymond A. Mason School of Business. The program touts itself as the future of business through its innovative coursework that teaches students the skills and knowledge needed to create useful data sets that inform decision-making. The program is designed to make graduates invaluable organizational assets giving them leverage for better jobs and better pay. Faculty come from a wide range of backgrounds including cybersecurity, healthcare, marketing, manufacturing, oil and gas, and more. William & Mary ranks #39 in national universities according to U.S. News and World Report.
#21 – University of Massachusetts
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Amherst, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,209
The University of Massachusetts offers one of our top online business intelligence programs that imbuse students with highly sought after data analysis skills that can be applied to a large number of organizations. The coursework covers wide-ranging topics from business management, data management, data mining, and business intelligence. Administered by the world-renowned Isenberg School of Management, students can expect flexibility and rigor as they navigate the 10-course, 31-credit degree program. Students in the online program can take as few as one three-credit course per term or can choose to attend full-time. Students have up to four years to complete the degree. UMass ranks #66 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#20 – Georgia Institute of Technology
Online Master’s in Analytics
Atlanta, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,088
Georgia Tech’s online master’s in business analytics is designed to prepare students for a variety of integral positions analyzing data. The curriculum uses an interdisciplinary approach to analytics providing students with deep insights and knowledge to attack problems from various points of reference. Graduate exit the program with the ability to identify relevant data streams, integrate appropriate mathematical models, and more. Applicants from all backgrounds are invited to apply to the program. Applicants should have successfully passed one course in statistics, Python, and calculus and linear algebra. Test scores are optional and not required to apply. Georgia Tech ranks #35 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#19 – Maryville University
Online Master’s in Business Data Analytics
Saint Louis, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,646
Maryville University offers an affordable master’s in business intelligence online featuring nine courses plus a capstone. With six start dates per year and no campus visits required, accepted applicants are able to start without delay and have the flexibility they need to balance their pursuit of education and personal commitments. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, 3.0 GPA, and personal statement. No GRE or GMAT tests are required. Courses include data analytics, database principles, data visualization, and forecasting and predictive modeling. According to U.S. News and World Report, Maryville University ranks #196 in national universities and #144 in social mobility.
#18 – University of Maryland Global Campus
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
College Park, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,793
Ranked as one of our top online business intelligence programs, The Robert H. Smith School of Business offers a business analytics degree that helps students develop competencies in Python, R, and SQL. Graduates exit the program with substantial abilities in data mining, infrastructure management, and quantitative modeling. Designed with flexibility in mind, all coursework is conducted online and there are no residency requirements. Students can graduate in as little as 20 months and begin reaping the benefits of their degree right away. Graduates have gone on to work in a variety of industries such as education, government, healthcare, and more.
#17 – St. Bonaventure University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Saint Bonaventure, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,860
St. Bonaventure University’s online master’s in business analytics is a 33-credit program that can be finished in less than two years without stepping foot on campus. The program is designed for working professionals seeking flexible course scheduling and challenging curriculum. Graduates are well prepared for a successful career in business analytics in a variety of industries. The program’s focus is to develop students into strategic problem solvers through the development of skill in advanced analytics, business acumen, and communication. Courses include data visualization and analysis, data warehousing, and predictive analytics. St. Bonaventure ranks #6 in best value schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#16 – University of Colorado
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Boulder, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,556
Ranked #16 on our list of online business intelligence programs, The University of Colorado offers a business analytics program with three tracks including decision science, marketing analytics, and security analytics. Courses include applications of advanced statistics in advertising, fundamentals of data analytics, and unstructured and distributed data modeling and analysis. Admission requirements include a personal statement, resume, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. GRE or GMAT scores are optional and not required for admission although applicants may submit them should they feel they increase the strength of their application. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Colorado #103 in national universities.
#15 – Arizona State University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Tempe, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608
Arizona State offers an online master’s in business analytics that prepares graduates for top positions such as data analyst, analytic consultant, data scientist, and more. The skills taught in the program are transferable to nearly any industry. Students graduate with the ability to critically think to solve complex business problems and develop innovative solutions based on statistical evidence. Required courses include, but are not limited to, business analytics strategy, analytical decision modeling, and data driven quality management. The degree consists of 30 credits divided into 7.5 week-long classes are delivered entirely online. ASU ranks #103 in national universities according to U.S. News and World Report.
#14 – Ohio State University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Columbus, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,425
An online master’s in business intelligence is one of the most in-demand degrees as firms across the globe are seeking individuals with the skills to manage, analyze, and interpret large swaths of data to inform decisions and set strategy. The program at The Ohio State University teaches students how to harness data and use it to increase growth, innovation, and productivity across sectors. Sample courses include descriptive data analysis and visualization, predictive analytics, and prescriptive analytics. The program has no campus residency requirements although students may choose to enroll in a hybrid model. Ohio State ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories including #17 in top public schools.
#13 – Kent State University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Kent, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,766
Kent State’s master’s in business intelligence online offers students the opportunity to develop strong business acumen along with the capacity to harness data as a decision-making tool. In addition to quantitative coursework such as applied probability and statistics, databases and data processing, and programming and software tools, students learn communication and leadership skills needed to succeed on the job and ascend to top positions. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply but should possess previous exposure to STEM-based material either through coursework or practical experience. Kent State ranks #217 in national universities according to U.S. News and World Report.
#12 – University of Scranton
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,630
The University of Scranton provides working professionals with an online master’s in business analytics that combines the latest skills and content needed to qualify for top business intelligence and data analyst jobs. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and can be completed in as little as 18 months. Courses within the 30-credit program include business analytics using Python, business database management systems, customer relationship management, and introduction to business analytics. The University of Scranton ranks in ten U.S. News and World Report categories including #6 in regional universities North and #40 in best value schools.
#11 – Bellevue University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Bellevue, Nebraska
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,205
Landing just outside the top ten on our list of online business intelligence programs, Bellevue University’s program offers quality curriculum taught by highly trained faculty at an excellent tuition rate. The admission requirements for this 100% online degree include an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree and a 2.5 undergraduate GPA. GRE or GMAT test scores are not required. The 36-credit program is divided into business foundation courses, information systems foundation courses, and business analytics courses. This three-tiered approach provides a comprehensive view of the discipline and industry and ensures students graduate in a career-ready capacity to handle advanced challenges and opportunities. Bellevue is ranked #119 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#10 – Grand Canyon University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Phoenix, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,074
Grand Canyon’s master’s in business intelligence online offers a flexible curriculum taught by highly trained faculty members with industry experience. Through the Colangelo College of Business, students learn how to use data to inform business decisions. The program is designed for those with industry experience seeking more formal education and training leading to increased career opportunities. Students can transfer up to 12 credits from other institutions upon approval, thus shortening the 38-credit program. Courses include applied business probability and statistics, prescriptive analytics and advanced topics, and performing analytics using statistical language. U.S. News and World Report ranks Grand Canyon University #298 in national universities.
#9 – Indiana University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Bloomington, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,873
Indiana University ranks just inside the top ten of our online business intelligence programs for working professionals. The 30-credit program is housed within the Kelley School of Business and is appropriate for individuals with an MBA or an undergraduate degree in business, economics, engineering, information technology, or statistics. The plan of study includes courses such as developing value through BA applications, data predictive analysis and business strategy, and data warehousing and visualization. Students can complete the degree in just 15 months and have as long as three years. Indiana University ranks in 19 U.S. News and World Report categories including #76 in national universities.
#8 – Purdue University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
West Lafayette, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,992
Purdue University’s online master’s in business analytics prepares students for top careers in business analytics across nearly any sector or industry by teaching and training students to become thought leaders in data analysis. Taught by faculty from the world-renowned Krannert School of Management, students receive up close and personal mentoring from faculty and networking with peers. Admission requirements include statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, video essay, transcripts, and test scores. Test scores are only required for applicants with fewer than three years of professional work experience. Purdue University is ranked #11 in best business analytics programs by U.S. News and World Report.
#7 – Corban University
Online Master’s in Business Intelligence and Analytics
Salem, Oregon
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,930
Corban University’s online master’s in business intelligence ranks #7 on our list of most affordable business intelligence degrees due to its value-based tuition and quality curriculum. The program is geared towards working professionals seeking flexible coursework. The entire program can be completed online in just 12 months. There are several pathways to admission such as a bachelor’s degree and 3.0 GPA, full-time professional experience with a progression in responsibility, or a GMAT score of 500 or higher. The coursework combines business analytics courses with courses in finance, marketing, operations, and technology. The applied framework that underscores all classes means students learn the skills needed to be successful on the job.
#6 – Ohio University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Athens, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,720
Ohio University lands at #6 in our list of most affordable online business intelligence programs. The coursework teaches students to organize and analyze big data that can be used to inform business strategy and decision-making. The coursework is delivered entirely online with no campus visit requirements. Applicants accepted into the program can finish in just 20 months and can start in the fall, spring, or summer terms. Graduates have gone on to successful careers as data scientists, data engineers, business analysts, and more. Coursework includes applied business experience, programming for analytics, and strategic use of information systems. Ohio University ranks #87 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#5 – Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Online Master’s in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
Winona, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,180
Ranks #5 on our list of online master’s in business intelligence programs, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers working professionals the opportunity to engage in a yearlong intensive program learning advanced business data analytics and presentation skills culminating in a master’s degree. As part of the program, students can choose from specialty tracks in business analytics, healthcare analytics, and artificial intelligence. Coursework includes communications and content strategies, data analysis and business modeling, and data visualization and storytelling. The program welcomes students with regionally accredited bachelor degrees from all backgrounds to apply. Saint Mary’s is ranked #33 in regional universities Midwest according to U.S. News and World Report.
#4 – Oklahoma State University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics and Data Science
Stillwater, Oklahoma
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,460
Oklahoma State University offers a master’s in business intelligence online that provides students with practical data analysis experience through applied learning experiences that prepares them for a rewarding career in business intelligence and data science. Students learn skills in analytics software such as Python, R, SAS, Tableau, and more. Students also have the choice to specialize in various analytic tracks in marketing, healthcare, advanced data science, and cybersecurity. Graduates are actively recruited by several top firms and have gone on to successful careers in a wide variety of industries. U.S. News and World Report ranks Oklahoma State #187 in national universities.
#3 – University of North Carolina
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Wilmington, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,457
The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers an online master’s in business intelligence that gives graduates the data analysis and interpretation skills needed to be competitive in a global marketplace that values big data and decision-making. Students exit the program with advanced business strategies used by firms to make recommendations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 39% increase in data analytics careers through 2024. Applicants accepted to the program can complete the 30 credits in just 12 months. UNC Wilmington’s Cameron School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The institution ranks #95 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#2 – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Edinburg, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,128
Working professionals interested in an online master’s in business intelligence may find the offering at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley an excellent fit due to its combination of affordable tuition and intensive coursework that challenges students to learn and master the data analysis and interpretation skills to lead organizations as they strive to make informed decisions using complex data sets. Each course within the 33-credit program is seven weeks. The entire program can be finished in just 12 months. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley ranks in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories including #36 in social mobility and #284 in national universities.
#1 – Texas A & M University
Online Master’s in Business Analytics
Commerce, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,578
As the #1 program on our list of online master’s in business intelligence, Texas A&M Commerce provides current and aspiring data scientists and business intelligence analysts with advanced coursework in the organization and interpretation of big data. Students also learn the skills required to effectively present and articulate their findings, making them invaluable assets to their organizations. The 30-credit program can be completed in two years or less. Non-business major applicants must take prerequisite courses in business analytics, marketing, operations, and statistics at Texas A&M or at other institutions upon approval. U.S. News and World Report ranks Texas A&M Commerce #298 in national universities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an online master’s in business intelligence degree?
There are several occupational pathways and options for someone with an online master’s in business intelligence. The degree teaches graduates how to use the latest data analysis software such as Python, R, and SQL to turn large data sets into usable information to make informed business decisions. These skills are highly sought after in most industries and sectors. Below are some of the most common occupational tracks individuals follow upon completion of a master’s in business intelligence.
Business Intelligence Analyst
These analysts work with large data set,s performing modeling and visualization to seek out patterns and meaning that informs strategy. They also spend much of their time articulating the outcome of their findings during presentations.
Data Analyst
Data analysts utilize programming, SQL, and statistical knowledge to work with data to find value and opportunity. The occupation can be found in a wide variety of industries with various titles such as healthcare analyst, business analyst, and business intelligence analyst.
Data Scientist
Data scientists most often possess the highest technical knowledge compared to their peers in the field. These positions require mastery of data analytics tools, including Python and R, as well as a deep understanding of statistical analysis, which is required to find actionable insights.
What is the job outlook for individuals with an online master’s in business intelligence degree?
The job outlook for an individual with a master’s in business intelligence is quite strong, according to data collected from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and McKinsey Global Institute. The data shows that jobs that require data analysis used to inform business decisions should increase between 9% and 20% through 2028. This staggering rate of growth far outpaces the median job growth rate of 5% for all other occupations tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a global economy increases competition, the need to leverage large and complicated data into actionable business strategy has increased. Individuals with these skills should have career success given the demand for the work they complete.
The above data reflects the entry-level jobs of this type that are expected to come available. Entry-level jobs of this nature typically require a bachelor’s degree. Those with a master’s degree in business intelligence should expect even greater job opportunities given their advanced knowledge and skills. Moreover, those who gain SAS recognized business intelligence certificates might also experience increased occupational opportunities.
Individuals who live in major metropolitan areas, or are able to relocate to these areas, should experience-increased employment opportunities. Employment data reveals areas such as Washington DC, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York all have above-average job openings.
How much money can you earn with a master’s in business intelligence online degree?
According to data analysis of more than 3,600 salary profiles on PayScale.com, the median wage for business intelligence professionals is $69,294 annually. When broken down into pay by experience, the data shows that entry-level analysts with less than one year of experience earn $59,000, compared to professionals with 20+ years of experience, who earn $88,000 per year. Mid-career business intelligence analysts with 5-9 years of experience earn approximately $78,000 per year while experienced analysts with 10-19 years of experience earn an average compensation of $83,000 annually. Compared to the median salary of all occupations tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics ($39,080), these professionals earn substantially more than the average worker. This is not surprising, given the technical nature of their work.
Major metropolitan areas generally pay higher wages than their more rural counterparts. PayScale shows that individuals with the job title, Business Intelligence Analyst, earn 30.7% more than the average worker with the same job title in the rest of the United States. BI analysts in Seattle, Washington and New York City also earn well above the median salary by 16.1% and 14.5% respectively. While the increased salaries are attractive, some of the gains are only nominal, as these areas also have a much higher cost of living.
What professional associations can you join while earning an online master’s in business intelligence degree?
Associations provide several tangible benefits to students of all levels, including those pursuing an online master’s degree in business intelligence. From networking with future colleagues, finding community with fellow students, and getting the latest developments and training in the industry, the following associations are detailed below.
Association for Information Science and Technology
The Association for Information Science and Technology includes a wide array of current and future IT professionals, including those in the business intelligence field. The main focus of ASIS&T is to bring to its members the latest research as it relates to the practice and application of information science and technology jobs. The association holds regional and national events, publishes and disseminates research, provides networking and mentoring opportunities, and shares job openings on a regular basis.
Data Management Association International
DAMA prides itself in being a vendor-independent global association where technical and business professionals can come together to champion innovative ideas in the field of information and data management. Its goal is to develop professionals through research and training while influencing industry best practices.
Strategic and Competitive Intelligence Professionals
Dedicated solely to members of the competitive intelligence and strategy community, SCIP is a global non-profit community that offers intelligence and strategy professionals with an array of benefits through collaboration, research, and collective innovation. The goal of the community is to help drive growth while reducing uncertainty for mission-critical decisions.
What are the admission requirements for online master’s in business intelligence programs?
Like other online master’s degree programs, business intelligence programs vary in their admission requirements. Since the degree possesses a high degree of technical and quantitative coursework, many programs require prerequisite courses or specific academic credentials to apply.
Prerequisites can range from the successful completion of a few specific courses to the possession of a specific bachelor’s degree. Specific courses often include statistics and probability, economics, calculus and linear algebra, and introduction to business. These courses can be taken at a four-year institution or a community college upon approval of the specific program.
For programs requiring the completion of a specific bachelor’s degree, the most common undergraduate majors include engineering, mathematics, business, finance, and information technology. In addition to academic credentials, programs often desire applicants with a minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in the industry.
More competitive programs will require higher undergraduate GPAs from 3.0 and above as well as GRE or GMAT test scores. Some programs accept the Millers Analogy Test (MAT), but it is uncommon. GRE or GMAT test scores at the most competitive programs should range from the 75th percentile and up, while competitive programs require scores within the 50th percentile. Less competitive programs do not require standardized testing or offer generous waivers for those with substantial work experience or certain GPAs.
BCO Staff
February 2021
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