Program Overview

Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) Program

The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program at the Rady School of Management is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to solve complex business problems using data, statistics, and machine learning. The program is tailored to meet the growing need for highly skilled professionals who can leverage AI and apply sophisticated analytics to real-world business cases.

Program Overview

• The MSBA program is a full-time program that starts in the summer (August) and can be completed in approximately 12 months.
• The program is designed to create a level of proficiency in data analysis, programming, and the use of AI that is not feasible in a general management education.
• The curriculum is designed to teach students how to leverage AI and apply sophisticated analytics to real-world business cases.
• The program culminates in a Capstone Project, where a team of MSBA students collaborates with a client company to solve a pressing business problem.

Program Structure

• Classes are scheduled on Monday-Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
• A course load of 12-14 units translates into approximately 9-11 hours of classes each week.
• The program does not offer dual-degree programs.
• Students demonstrating academic success within the Rady MSBA program may petition to enroll in classes in other departments at UC San Diego, depending on departmental permission and availability.

Admission Requirements

• Work experience is not required but is preferred.
• Business experience or coursework is not required.
• The program welcomes applications from individuals who have already completed an advanced degree in science, engineering, technology, or other quantitative disciplines.
• Coursework in subjects such as calculus, linear algebra, econometrics, and advanced statistics and probability will prepare students for the MSBA program.
• Accepted applicants are required to complete specific Python and R programming DataCamp.com coursework before the start of the program.

Eligibility

• The program accepts applicants with a 3-year undergraduate degree, with equivalency to a 4-year degree evaluated by the UC San Diego Graduate Division Admissions team.
• The program does not offer pre-application review for eligibility.
• The application fee is nonrefundable, but the Rady School of Management offers pre-approval of application fee waivers to select populations.

Program Details

• The STEM designation allows international students who complete the Rady Full-Time MSBA program on an F-1 student visa to extend their post-graduation time in the U.S. through Optional Practical Training (OPT) and the STEM OPT Extension.
• The program recommends specific UCSD undergraduate courses for preparation, including Quantitative Methods in Business, Financial Accounting, and Business Analytics.
• Current UCSD students must complete their degree requirements and course of study by the end of the preceding spring quarter to begin the Rady MSBA program.

Additional Information

• The Rady School of Management offers a limited number of Teaching Assistant (TA) positions each quarter, with available positions and the application process shared with current Rady graduate students after the start of the program.
• The program does not accept transfer credit from other graduate programs.
• The application fee is nonrefundable, but the Rady School of Management offers pre-approval of application fee waivers to select populations.