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Master of Science in Business Analytics


Data has permeated the world — and it’s impacting every industry. Despite a consensus that companies should be driving decisions with data, many businesses struggle to convert raw data into actionable insights.

Students in Merrimack’s M.S. in Business Analytics learn how to organize, analyze and interpret data using industry-standard tools to gain proficiency in developing strategic, data-informed solutions to business challenges.

Regardless of your academic or professional background, this program equips students with the skills needed to create insights and tell a story with data — no prerequisites required.

Quick facts:

  • 100 percent online or hybrid.
  • Tuition under $23,000.
  • Complete in 12 months full time or 16 months part time.
  • Two-year OPT extension for international students.
  • No prerequisites needed.
  • No GRE or GMAT required.
  • Financial aid eligible.

Learn more about Merrimack’s M.S. in Business Analytics.

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Nearly every industry needs skilled analysts to drive decision-making in roles such as:

Source: Payscale, 2024

Master of Science in Business Analytics Coursework


Thoughtfully designed by industry experts, the pacing of this program introduces analytical concepts and tools in an approachable and efficient manner.

With 20 credits of core coursework and a four-credit capstone experience, students begin by learning how businesses can best leverage data and are then introduced to industry tools and applications. The remaining eight credits can be used to expand your skills in analytics or other areas of business.

Required Core (20 credits)

Students begin by learning how businesses leverage data and are then introduced to the industry tools and applications in a thoughtfully-paced, accessible format.

  • Frameworks for Business Analytics (BAI 5100)
  • Strategic Decision-Making using Business Analytics (BAI 5150)
  • Leveraging Competitive Advantage with Business Intelligence (BAI 5250)
  • Data Visualization & Storytelling (BAI 5200)
  • Data Governance, Compliance & Ethics (BAI 5220)

Capstone Experience (4 credits)

The capstone experience integrates tailored experiential learning to provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency through the hands-on application of analytics to solve real-world business challenges. In addition to presenting their analysis and recommendations, students create a portfolio of tangible work samples to showcase to future employers.

Concentrations and Open Electives (8 credits)

Merrimack currently offers optional concentrations. However, you can choose any open elective that fits your goals. Some advanced elective courses may require prerequisites. 

Data Science

  • Introduction to Data Science and Statistics (DSE 5001)
  • R and Python Programming (DSE 5002)
  • Predictive Modeling (DSE 6111)

Finance

  • Financial Statement Analysis & Interpretation (FIN 5450)
  • Quantitative Methods & Financial Modeling (FIN 5440)
  • Trends & Innovation in Finance (FIN 5420)

Marketing 

  • Innovation & Trends in Marketing (MKT 5310)
  • Digital Marketing Implementation & Optimization (MKT 5320)
  • Driving Business Success with Marketing Analytics (MKT 5410)
  • Marketing Management & Strategy (MKT 5420)

Focused on Industry Tools and Aligned With Relevant Certifications


Most industries, from the private sector to governments and nonprofits, utilize the same tools for analyzing and presenting data. Students in Merrimack’s M.S. in Business Analytics become proficient in the following tools and more.

For students interested in seeking additional certifications, course materials are aligned with industry certifications in Google Analytics, Tableau, Power BI, Parsehub and more. Some certificate knowledge areas may require elective coursework.

  • Tableau
  • Power BI
  • SAS
  • Advanced Excel
  • ParseHub (Elective)
  • Google Analytics (Elective)
  • R/Python (Elective)

Two-Year OPT Extension for International Students


M.S. in Business Analytics is a STEM-designated degree.

International students with an F-1 visa who complete a STEM-designated degree may be eligible to apply for a 24-month STEM Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT). This is in addition to the standard, 12-month post-completion OPT work authorization.

OPT is temporary employment directly related to an F-1 student’s area of study. While employer sponsorship for international students from U.S. universities has declined in recent years, employer demand for candidates who graduate with technical and analytical skills from reputable schools like Merrimack College remains strong.

Student Support Resources

Students in the Girard School of Business benefit from a dedicated success team. Support includes:

Support includes:

  • 1:1 advising and mentoring from faculty and program staff.
  • Access to LinkedIn Learning and Handshake.
  • Professional development workshops.
  • Math, writing and accessibility services through the Academic Success Center.
  • Career services support through the O’Brien Center for Career Development.

It’s Easy to Apply Online

A complete application includes:

  • Online application (no fee).
  • Official college transcripts from all institutions attended.
  • Resume.
  • Interview or personal statement.
  • Contact information for one reference or one letter of recommendation.

GRE and GMAT scores are not required.

One year of relevant work experience is preferred (relevant work experience includes full-time work, internships and co-ops).


Key Dates and Deadlines

This program enrolls six times a year. Each term is eight weeks.

Term
Application Deadline
Classes Begin
Spring I
Monday, January 6, 2025
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Spring II
Monday, March 3, 2025
Monday, March 17, 2025
Summer I
Monday, April 28, 2025
Monday, May 12, 2025
Spring I
Application Deadline
Monday, January 6, 2025
Classes Begin
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Spring II
Application Deadline
Monday, March 3, 2025
Classes Begin
Monday, March 17, 2025
Summer I
Application Deadline
Monday, April 28, 2025
Classes Begin
Monday, May 12, 2025

At Merrimack College, we’re proud of our long history of providing quality degrees to students entering the job market. Our faculty are more than just teachers. We are committed to helping you grow — academically, personally and spiritually — so that you may graduate as a confident, well-prepared citizen of the world.

  • Most Innovative Schools (No. 14)
  • Regional Universities North (No. 33)
  • Best Undergraduate Teaching (No. 31)
  • Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs (No. 86)
    (at schools where doctorate not offered)
  • Best Colleges for Veterans (No. 14)
  • Best Value Schools (No. 47)
  • Merrimack College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
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