Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Science in Business Analytics Program

The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program is designed to cater to individuals with little to no work experience, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field of business analytics. The program is tailored to meet the demands of the industry, where professionals with data analytics skills are in high demand.

Why Data Analytics Skills are In Demand

The widespread usage of the internet and the increased digitization and automation of businesses have led to an exponential growth in the availability of data. As a result, organizations are looking for professionals who can harness this information to make better decisions. Business analytics utilizes statistics, quantitative methods, and predictive modeling to transform data into actionable insights that can streamline internal processes, meet customer expectations, and influence company decisions.

How to Start a Career in Business Analytics

To start a career in business analytics, individuals can follow one of two paths. They can either start in an entry-level role in business, finance, statistics, or information technology and build upon their skill set with a certificate or degree, or they can earn a degree in the field, such as an MSBA, and build their portfolio and gain relevant experience through their program and internship opportunities.

Key Skills Required for a Career in Business Analytics

The ideal candidate for a career in business analytics has:

• A couple of years of relevant business analytics or technical experience
• A solid foundation in mathematics and statistics
• Strong quantitative skills
• Some client-facing experience
• Confidence in their soft skills, such as communication, creativity, and collaboration
• An entrepreneurial, can-do attitude to find new ways to examine or utilize data to benefit a company and its product offerings

Program Details

The MSBA program at Wake Forest University is a full-time program that can be completed in just 10 months. The curriculum thoroughly covers both technical and business skills and presents multiple opportunities for getting real-world experience before graduation. The program incorporates experiential learning, allowing students to participate in corporate partners' projects to build their portfolio with relevant, real-world examples.

Building Experience and Networking

MSBA students who have no prior work experience are encouraged to:

• Start networking by meeting or connecting with successful business or data analytics professionals
• Build their experience by utilizing their skills in a professional setting, such as through volunteer, freelance, or contractual positions, or by applying for a business or data analytics internship at a company where they might like to work following graduation
• Create a portfolio of relevant work examples and visualizations that clearly display their knowledge and indicate the role they played in the project
• Highlight their business knowledge and soft skills, including problem-solving and communication, when applying for internships or full-time jobs

Conclusion

The MSBA program is designed to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field of business analytics. With its comprehensive curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and focus on building experience and networking, the program is an ideal choice for those looking to start a career in business analytics.