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In today’s data-driven business world, business analytics is crucial for companies seeking to inform better decision-making and optimise overall business strategies.  Choosing the right business school programmes can be a critical step for aspiring students to career success.

What is Business Analytics?

Business analytics (BA) is a field that combines data science, statistics, and business knowledge to extract insights from data.  Businesses use these insights to make data-driven decisions about various aspects of their operations, from marketing and sales to product development and financial planning.

The demand for skilled business analytics is on the rise.  According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in data analytics is projected to grow 33.2% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.  

Top Business Schools for Business Analytics

MIT Sloan School of Management

The MIT Sloan Master of Business Analytics programme is an intensive, hands-on programme that teaches students how to apply technology to solve real-world business problems. The programme culminates in a capstone project where students work directly with industry leaders. 

Stanford Graduate School of Business 

Stanford University offers an MSx programme in Data Science and Business Analytics. The programme is known for its cutting-edge research and innovation, and it offers courses that integrate advanced analytics techniques with core business disciplines. Graduates of the programme are well-positioned for careers in Silicon Valley and other tech hubs.

University of Cambridge Judge Business School

The University of Cambridge Judge Business School offers an MPhil in Strategy, Marketing & Operations programme specialising in business analytics. This programme provides students with a strong foundation in the quantitative aspects of strategic decision-making.

Business Analytics in the Age of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Business analytics is constantly evolving, driven by big data and AI advancements.  Big data refers to the mass datasets businesses collect from various sources, such as customer transactions, social media activity, and sensor data.  AI refers to the use of machines to mimic human intelligence, including the ability to learn from data and make predictions.

Businesses increasingly use big data and AI to develop new analytics tools and techniques.  For example, enterprises use AI-powered machine learning algorithms to automate data analysis tasks, identify customer trends, and predict future outcomes.

In addition to traditional business analytics skills, such as data analysis, statistical modelling, and programming, business analytics professionals increasingly need to be skilful in data visualisation, machine learning, and AI.

Specialisation is Key

The field of business analytics is broad, and there are many different specialisations that students can pursue. Some popular specialisations include marketing analytics, finance analytics, and healthcare analytics. By specialising in a particular area, students can develop a deeper understanding of the industry they are interested in, as well as specific data challenges businesses are facing.

Business analytics professionals need to commit to continuous learning to catch up with the evolving trends in business analytics.  This may involve taking online courses, attending industry conferences, networking with industry fellows, or reading industry publications.

At Bearing Academy, our professional consultants will give you useful advice on course and university selection.   Email info@bearing-academy.com today to discuss your future education and career planning.