Research | Weatherhead School at Case Western Reserve University
What is business analytics?

Business analytics is the practice of business disciplines with a rigorous application of quantitative and decision support tools. Our program currently emphasizes such applications in two areas: operations and marketing.
How is it different from data analytics or data science programs?

The terms are sometimes used interchangeably. However, data analytics or data science programs emphasize issues related to data capture, storage and analysis without specifying a significant decision context. Thus, data science programs focus more on developing general computing tools and statistical techniques. In contrast, Business Analytics tries to produce students who can act as a bridge between pure data scientists and managers at all levels. The program teaches students how to use statistical and other analytics tools for specific business related decision making.
Why should I choose the Master of Business Analytics and Intelligence over other programs like the MBA?

This advanced business degree program teaches students to both understand the role of evidence-based data in decision making and to gain a competitive edge by synthesizing data to make better decisions.

To a certain degree, the ability to collect and analyze data and information has long been part of business education. However, a traditional MBA is a broad degree. Exposure to all business functions necessarily limits the time students have to dig deeper into analytics training.

As a Master of Business Analytics and Intelligence student, you will gain experience in quantitative and technical methods as well as further develop your strategic and business management skills.
What kinds of jobs are available in this field?

There are a number of jobs available in business analytics across all industries, including consulting, operations, healthcare, marketing analytics, and so on. Typical job titles include:

  • Product Analyst
  • Pricing Analyst
  • Marketing Operations Analyst
  • Web Analyst
  • CRM Analyst
  • Database Marketing Analyst
  • Operations Manager
  • Business Process Analyst

Many studies indicate a significant need for people with this specific skillset across all business sectors.
What is the length of the program?

The Master of Business Analytics and Intelligence is a full-time, 36-credit-hour, STEM-eligible program that can be completed in less than 11 months. The program begins in the middle of July and finishes in the middle of May the following year.
When and where are classes held?

Classes will be held in the Peter B. Lewis building. Most classes will take place during the day, but a small number may be scheduled in the evening as well.

How much is the tuition for this program?

Please visit the tuition page for more information; there are generous scholarships available in the form of tuition fellowships.
As an international student, can I work at the school or obtain an internship during the program?

There are opportunities to work on campus depending on your abilities and faculty/departmental needs, though on-campus employment is not guaranteed. Based on current immigration rules, students who join the program straight from a foreign country (on a student F visa) are not eligible for internships during the first 12 months of their studies. Exceptions to this rule are rare and require specific circumstances. Please talk to an expert in the International Student Services office of the university.
Are there scholarships or financial aid opportunities available?

Yes, there are generous merit-based scholarships available to defray portions of the tuition cost. Financial aid is also available for U.S. citizens or international applicants whose cosigner is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. More information on financial aid is available on our website.

Do international students also qualify for merit-based scholarships? International students qualify for merit-based scholarships. For example, every admitted student will qualify for the inaugural Pioneer Grant. Further considerations based on merit for additional reduction in tuition cost is also possible.

How do I apply for merit-based scholarships? To be considered for a scholarship, all you need to do is indicate so in your admission application. There is no need to complete a separate form.

When are financial award decisions made? Awards are offered as early as the Round 1 decision date. Therefore, early application is strongly recommended to maximize scholarship availability.
What undergraduate degrees or majors are eligible to apply for the program?

Any undergraduate majors are eligible to apply for this program; however, applicants must have taken at least two semesters of calculus and a semester of linear algebra. In general, students with recent degrees in business, science, engineering, economics, mathematics or any of the quantitative disciplines are best prepared for the program.
Do you accept GRE or is GMAT preferred?

Both are accepted and there is no specific preference for one or the other.
When is the application deadline?

Please consult the program admission information page for details about the application round deadlines and notification dates.
What are the English Language Proficiency requirements for International Students?

We consider either TOEFL or IELTS to judge the English proficiency of international students.

The university does not have a minimum score to be considered for admission for any graduate program. However, due to the nature of the program, we recommend a score of at least 100 on the TOEFL to be competitive in the admissions process.
How do I apply?

Applications are accepted online. To complete and submit an application, please visit our online application.