MSBA Curriculum
Build the Technical and Strategic Skills to Lead in Data-Driven Organizations
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) at the University of Washington Foster School of Business is a STEM-designated, full-time graduate program designed to develop advanced capabilities in data, analytics, and strategic decision-making.
Students build technical expertise in statistics, programming, machine learning, and data management while applying analytics across marketing, pricing, operations, and finance. The curriculum integrates business foundations, leadership development, and applied experience to prepare graduates to translate data into strategic action and measurable organizational impact.
Data, Methods & Tools
Domain & Functional Analytics
Business Foundations & Leadership
Communication & Applied Experience
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is a STEM-designated graduate program that develops advanced capabilities in data analysis, machine learning, and strategic decision-making.
Students build expertise in statistics, SQL, Python, and predictive modeling while applying analytics across marketing, pricing, operations, and finance. The curriculum integrates business foundations, leadership, and applied experience to prepare graduates to translate data into measurable organizational impact.
Program at a Glance
- Degree: Master of Science in Business Analytics
- Credits: 44
- Duration: One year
- Schedule: Evening and weekend classes, work-compatible
- Courseload: Full-time
- Location: UW campus in Seattle
- STEM Designation: Yes
Who the MSBA Program Is Designed For
The MSBA is designed for individuals who want to build advanced analytical expertise and apply data-driven decision-making in business and technology environments.
Students typically include:
- Early-career professionals seeking technical depth in analytics and machine learning
- Recent graduates with backgrounds in quantitative disciplines such as engineering, economics, computer science, mathematics, or business
- Professionals transitioning into analytics, consulting, or product-focused roles
- Individuals aiming to lead data-informed initiatives within organizations
How the Curriculum Is Structured
The MSBA curriculum is organized around integrated capability areas rather than isolated courses. This structure reflects how analytics professionals combine statistics, programming, machine learning, and business strategy to solve real-world business problems.
Core Courses
Required coursework builds foundational expertise in probability and statistics, SQL and data management, Python programming, machine learning, optimization, finance, marketing analytics, and operations. These courses ensure graduates develop both technical depth and business context.
View full list of core courses
Core Capability Areas
The MSBA curriculum is organized around four core capability areas that reflect how business analytics professionals generate insight, inform strategy, and drive measurable results in modern organizations.
Data, Methods & Tools
Students develop foundational analytical capabilities in statistics, programming, data management, and machine learning. Coursework emphasizes technical rigor and hands-on application using industry-standard tools.
Key areas include:
- Probability and statistical inference
- Python programming, data visualization, and generative AI
- SQL and relational data management
- Machine learning methods, including regression, classification, and neural networks
- Spreadsheet modeling and decision-support tools, including linear programming and simulation
Domain & Functional Analytics
Students apply analytical methods within key business functions to address real organizational challenges. Courses emphasize experimentation, optimization, and data-driven decision-making across marketing, pricing, and operations.
Key areas include:
- Operations research and quantitative analysis
- Pricing analytics and demand modeling
- Customer analytics and lifecycle strategy
- Marketing mix modeling and machine learning applications
- Digital marketing optimization and econometrics
Business Foundations & Leadership
Analytics creates value when aligned with financial performance, competitive strategy, and operational priorities. Students strengthen their business acumen and leadership capabilities to translate analytical insight into strategic action.
Key areas include:
- Finance and accounting, including financial statement analysis
- Competitive strategy and strategic decision frameworks
- Leadership and team effectiveness
- Operations and supply chain management analytics
Communication & Applied Experience
Effective analytics professionals must communicate insights clearly and implement solutions in real-world contexts. The curriculum integrates executive communication, industry engagement, and applied learning experiences.
Key areas include:
- Data visualization and executive storytelling
- Business Analytics Leader Series
- Business Analytics Practicum with partner organizations
Career Preparation and Outcomes
The MSBA prepares graduates for technical and strategic analytics roles across industries including technology, consulting, finance, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Graduates pursue roles such as:
- Business Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Product or Growth Analyst
- Product Manager
- Program Manager
- Marketing Analytics Manager
- Strategy & Operations Analyst
- Pricing Analyst
- Customer Insights Analyst
Employers value MSBA graduates who combine machine learning expertise, programming proficiency, statistical rigor, and business judgment to drive measurable impact.
Career preparation is reinforced through applied coursework, team-based projects, executive communication training, and industry engagement within Seattle’s technology ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MSBA technical, strategic, or applied?
The MSBA integrates rigorous technical training in machine learning, programming, and statistics with strategic business coursework and applied projects.
Can I work while completing the program?
The MSBA is a full-time, immersive program designed for cohort-based learning.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is completed in 12 months.
Explore the Full MSBA Curriculum
For detailed course descriptions and sequencing by quarter, view the full curriculum.