Organizations across various industries use business analytics to transform data into actionable insights, enabling them to make informed decisions that drive growth, enhance operational efficiency and remain competitive in the market. With more data available than ever, the need for professionals who can collect, analyze and implement insights from this information continues to rise.
Earning a degree like Northern Kentucky University’s (NKU) online Master of Science in Information Systems (M.S.I.S.) – Business Analytics prepares you for an impactful future as a data-driven leader. This guide explores the skills, job opportunities and flexibility the degree provides to help you take the next step in your career.
What Is a Business Analytics Degree?
A master’s in information systems with a concentration in business analytics teaches students how to use information, data and technologies to make strategic decisions that drive business success. The curriculum focuses on core areas, including data management, business intelligence and information security. Throughout the program, students learn how to apply these skills in real-world business settings, from optimizing operations and enhancing customer experiences to identifying long-term growth opportunities.
Graduates of NKU’s M.S.I.S. – Business Analytics program are equipped with the skills and expertise to take on top-level roles throughout various industries, including finance, healthcare, technology and government. They often go on to hold managerial, leadership or executive positions where they influence organizational strategy and drive innovation.
What You’ll Learn in an M.S.I.S. – Business Analytics Program
An M.S.I.S. in business analytics combines technical skills with business strategy, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of how to transform data into actionable insights. The curriculum includes core and elective courses that focus on topics such as information systems, database management, business intelligence and data visualization.
Through lectures, coursework, and hands-on projects, students learn how to apply their knowledge to real-world business challenges. Whether it’s using data platforms to track marketing campaigns, improving patient care with predictive analytics or enhancing donor management with data systems, they will graduate with the skills to solve complex problems and guide strategic decisions across industries.
Skills You Will Gain in an M.S.I.S. – Business Analytics Program
An M.S.I.S. in business analytics program equips students with a strong combination of technical and soft skills, enabling them to analyze and interpret data, communicate their findings, and solve real-world business problems. Graduates complete the program with advanced expertise in:
- Data modeling: Students learn how to design, organize, and manage complex data sets and apply them to business settings.
- Statistical analysis: Through the use of regression, predictive modeling and hypothesis testing, students learn how to use data to inform strategic decisions.
- Business intelligence tools: Students use platforms like Python and R to manipulate, track and model data.
- Communication: Students learn how to effectively present data and make recommendations to diverse stakeholders.
- Problem-solving: Students develop the ability to tackle complex business challenges using information systems and data.
- Collaboration and teamwork: Through group projects and collaborative assignments, students strengthen their abilities to work in cross-functional teams.
Career Opportunities
With more data available than ever, the demand for skilled individuals who can collect, analyze, and apply data insights to make strategic data-driven decisions is rapidly increasing. An M.S.I.S. in business analytics prepares students with the skills and expertise to enter high-level roles where they interpret data, influence organizational strategy and drive growth across industries. Graduates commonly enter roles as:
- Management analysts: These professionals collect and analyze data to recommend ways to improve an organization’s efficiency and profitability.
- Data scientists: By examining large data sets, data scientists identify trends, build predictive models and make recommendations that improve business function.
- Data architects: Sometimes called database administrators, these professionals create and organize databases to ensure their security, efficiency and accessibility.
A master’s in information systems – business analytics opens the door to high-earning, in-demand positions in sectors such as finance, healthcare, retail and technology. For example, data scientists earn a median annual salary of $112,590, with the top 10% earning more than $194,410. With employment in the field expected to grow 34% over the next decade, graduates benefit from long-term career growth and job stability.
Inside NKU’s Online M.S.I.S. – Business Analytics Program
NKU’s online M.S.I.S. in Business Analytics program offers an affordable, flexible pathway for working professionals to advance their education without sacrificing their personal and professional commitments. Through virtual learning platforms, students gain the skills to apply information technology, evaluate data for business needs and make data-driven decisions that drive organizational success.
With accelerated courses, pay-by-the-course tuition and multiple start dates throughout the year, students can create a schedule that fits their lifestyle and advances their careers at their own pace. In as little as 12 months, individuals can prepare themselves to be data-driven business leaders who make a real-world impact across industries.
Take the Next Step in Your Career With an Online M.S.I.S. in Business Analytics From NKU
Leveraging data to make actionable business decisions helps transform organizations in today’s economy. With NKU’s online M.S.I.S. in Business Analytics program, you’ll gain the skills you need to become a successful business leader who uses data to improve functions, enhance efficiency and contribute to overall success.
Contact the NKU admissions team to learn more or apply to the program today. With industry-recognized faculty, flexible learning platforms, and affordable tuition, you will be well-equipped for a rewarding career in business analytics.
