Business Analytics (MS)

The Master of Science in Business Analytics provides students with the skill and knowledge to become experts in business analytics and to advance their careers in the area of data analytics. Students in the program acquire the statistical and optimization tools necessary to analyze large and unstructured data sets and make optimal decisions to improve the performance of their organization. In addition, students develop the ability to effectively present complex data to high-level decision-makers. This program concentrates on business applications across different industries and functions including marketing, finance, operations management, retail, manufacturing, banking and health care.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must satisfy most of the admission requirements for all Marshall master’s degree programs. A few years of work experience is preferred, but not required. GMAT or GRE scores are required. For international applicants TOEFL, IELTS or PTE scores required.

Application Procedure

Prospective students may apply to begin the program in the fall semester only. Applications are submitted online through the USC graduate admissions Website at gradadm.usc.edu. International applicants are advised to see the instructions for international students published in the USC Graduate Admissions Website (gradadm.usc.edu/apply/international-students/).

A complete application includes the online application form, an application fee, test scores, responses to several short-answer questions, two letters of recommendation and transcripts from all institutions attended since the applicant last applied to USC.

• Current USC students and USC alumni are not required to submit an application fee, new test scores (if previously submitted) or transcripts to verify degrees earned prior to their attendance at USC.
• All other applicants must submit all documentation identified in the online application instructions.

For additional information, visit marshall.usc.edu/msanalytics or write to MS.Analytics@marshall.usc.edu.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science in Business Analytics degree requires 33 units including at least 20 units of required course work plus up to 13 units of course work chosen from a list of electives. The program may be completed full-time (3-5 courses per semester) or part-time. All students must take all the required Core Courses DSO 510 , DSO 545  and GSBA 545  in the first semester.

Students who have taken one or more of the required courses elsewhere may petition to replace these courses with courses from the electives list and/or appropriately related courses offered by the Marshall School of Business or the Viterbi School of Engineering. Such a replacement must be approved by the program director prior to registration for the course.