Professionals across industries are seeking to develop strong analytical skills in today’s data-driven world. If you’re looking to leverage data for strategic decision-making or pivot to a high-demand analytics role, the MS Business Analytics program (MSBA) at Gies College of Business offers a transformative next step. 

This STEM-designated degree provides practical experience with a diverse, global cohort. Jia Xing, Senior Associate Director of Recruitment and Admissions, shares insider insights into how to apply to this nine-month on-campus program where you’ll learn to craft compelling data-driven stories and solve complex problems.

Q: What is the ideal time to pursue an MS Business Analytics degree, and what types of students are a good fit for the program?

A: Students enter the program to advance or shift their careers. Some are fresh out of college while others have a few years of experience in data analytics or related fields. Our program doesn’t limit students by their undergraduate major. We welcome learners from diverse backgrounds like finance, marketing, statistics, economics, mathematics, information systems, engineering, and more. 

Q: How does an MS Business Analytics degree accelerate career goals, particularly for those coming straight from undergraduate studies?

A: This business analytics degree builds on your existing knowledge. For instance, a marketing major can use analytics to make data-driven decisions in social media performance and marketing campaigns. Similarly, finance majors can use analytics to optimize trading strategies. The Gies Business MSBA program equips you with the data skills, literacy, and mindset needed for both immediate job success and long-term career impact.

Q: Gies Business graduates have a high success rate. Can you provide insights into career outcomes?

A: We consistently strive to deliver excellent return on investment for our graduates. In the most recent measurement period, we saw successful outcomes for 100% of our domestic graduates and 83% of our international students. They have accepted positions at leading companies, including Amazon, 3M, Discover Financial, Deloitte, EY, Hyatt, and PwC.

Q: What is the application process like?

A: We look for those who demonstrate a foundational understanding of analytics, data, and statistics, and urge them to showcase their effort to learn coding, whether through formal education or self-learning. Current undergrads and alumni of the University of Illinois and selected partner institutions can fast-track their applications with reduced application materials. 

The admissions committee reviews applications on a rolling basis with submission deadlines in October, January, March and April. We encourage you to submit early, which allows for increased scholarship opportunities, immediate consideration, and demonstrates your proactive professional skills.

Q: What can applicants do to make their MS Business Analytics application stand out?

The admissions committee seeks answers to four key questions: Can you be a good student? Can you be a good professional? Can you find a good job? Can you be a good alum?

To demonstrate you can be a good student, provide a strong academic transcript, reference letters from relevant professors (ideally in quantitative courses), and standardized test scores (GRE or GMAT) if needed. To showcase your professional potential, highlight your work ethic, teamwork, leadership, and ability to make a business impact. Finally, to show you can be a good alum, share your involvement in extracurricular activities and willingness to help others in your community.

Q: What support does Gies Business offer if I don’t have a strong technical background?

A: Our 12-hour data boot camp during orientation week helps get you up to speed on tools like Python, R and Tableau. You’ll also have access to two preparatory Coursera courses: One refreshes your statistics knowledge, and another focuses on business analytics fundamentals. 

The curriculum is designed to accommodate varying levels of data background and career goals. As MSBA Academic Director Vishal Sachdev says, the program is “low floor, high ceiling,” meaning it’s accessible to everyone while offering opportunities for advanced learning.

Q: With numerous MS Business Analytics programs available, what distinguishes the Gies MSBA?

A: The Gies Business MSBA differentiates itself through immersive experiential learning and dedicated career support. You’ll gain real-world experience via academic-year long client projects and benefit from faculty expertise drawn from diverse departments, ensuring you learn from experts across industries and functions.

You’ll also have access to bi-weekly analytics workshops, networking events, and technical career coaching. We prioritize your success by delivering a personalized and enriching experience.