Program Overview

MSc Business Analytics and Consultancy

The MSc in Business Analytics and Consultancy is designed to equip students with the decision skills needed to develop and excel as effective leaders and managers of transformational change in an era of Big Data and rapid innovation.

Key Information

• Level: Postgraduate Taught
• Delivery type: Full Time, Part Time
• Degree qualification: MSc
• Mode of delivery: On-Campus
• Duration: 1 year
• Location: Edinburgh
• Start date: September, January
• Next intake: January 2026

Program Description

Gain the expertise to make data-driven, evidence-based decisions that support transformational growth in business with the MSc Business Analytics and Consultancy programme. In an evolving digital world, the role of data and technology in business has never been more crucial. Employers around the globe are actively seeking graduates who combine strong business acumen with advanced data analytical skills and the ability to communicate insights clearly and effectively.

Throughout this degree, students will develop a solid understanding of the theories and practices that underpin business analytics, enabling them to make strategic, data-driven decisions that drive success in complex and fast-changing business environments. Students will gain an in-depth knowledge of Big Data and analytics and examine how these tools support managerial decision-making. They will also explore the principles of management consultancy and financial reporting, giving them a well-rounded understanding of the organisational context in which analytics is applied.

In addition, students will investigate the theory and methods of social network analysis and their relevance to organisational behaviour, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The close collaboration with an industry advisory board made up of business leaders ensures that teaching remains aligned with current professional needs. This means students will graduate with the highly sought-after skills required across modern management roles, including business strategy, leadership, project and change management, quality management, and inventory planning.

Your Student Experience

• Our expertise: Our learning will be informed by the expertise of our research-active academics whose work covers four key areas:
  • Employment, Work and the Professions
  • Logistics and Sustainability
  • Networks and Enterprise Excellence
  • Social and Economic Data Analysis
• Customise your learning: Accreditation and the ability to tailor your studies to fit your interests and career goals.
• Go Global: With Heriot-Watt's global student programme, students can carry their studies to new places and experience new cultures, expanding their horizons.

Course Content

September Intake - Edinburgh

Year 1

Mandatory September

• Financial Analysis
• Business Analytics and Introduction to Big Data
• Management Consultancy
• Strategic Change

Mandatory January

• Big Data Analytics
• Research Philosophy and Practice
• Network Analysis for Business

Optional January

• Quality Management
• Project Management
• Systems Thinking and Analysis

Mandatory May

• Business Analysis and Consultancy Dissertation

January Intake - Edinburgh

Year 1

Mandatory January

• Big Data Analytics
• Research Philosophy and Practice
• Network Analysis for Business

Optional January

• Quality Management
• Project Management
• Systems Thinking and Analysis

Mandatory September

• Financial Analysis
• Business Analytics and Introduction to Big Data
• Management Consultancy
• Strategic Change

Mandatory Second January

• Business Analysis and Consultancy Dissertation

Fees and Funding

• January 2026 intake tuition fees:
  • UK: Ł10,528 (Full Time), Ł5,264 (Part Time)
  • International: Ł21,192 (Full Time), Ł10,596 (Part Time)
• September 2026/January 2027 intake tuition fees:
  • UK: Ł12,744 (Full Time), Ł6,372 (Part Time)
  • International: Ł24,952 (Full Time), Ł12,476 (Part Time)
• Scholarships and bursaries: Over Ł6 million worth of opportunities are available in fee and stipend scholarships, with more than 400 students benefiting from this support.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of honours degree at 2:2 or non-UK equivalent in a relevant subject.
• Demonstrable evidence of numeracy, which can include algebra, statistics, calculus, Accountancy, and Finance, or similar subjects.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5 except for writing which must be at 6.0 minimum.