Business Analytics Programs: Breaking Down Educational Options

In nearly every industry today, data drives decision-making. From predicting customer behavior to optimizing supply chains, organizations depend on professionals who can turn data into insights. But with so many ways to build these skills, many students wonder: What’s the best educational path for me? 

At The University of Scranton, you’ll find multiple business analytics programs designed to meet you where you are — whether you’re exploring the field for the first time or ready to specialize deeply. Rooted in Jesuit values of integrity, service and academic excellence, Scranton’s programs prepare graduates to use data responsibly and lead with purpose. 

Let’s break down your business analytics program options and help you find the path that fits your goals.

What Is Business Analytics and Why Does It Matter?

Business analytics combines data, technology and strategy to help organizations make smarter decisions. Professionals in this field use tools like predictive modeling, data visualization and statistical analysis to identify patterns and solve real-world problems. 

These skills are in high demand across business, healthcare, finance and technology. Whether it’s improving operational efficiency, forecasting revenue or enhancing patient outcomes, analytics professionals bridge the gap between data and decision-making. 

But there’s another layer to this field: ethical leadership. At Scranton, business analytics education is guided by Jesuit principles, including cura personalis (care for the whole person), rei solicitude (attentive care and active concern for the well-being of society and others), and cura apostolica (caring for the collective enterprise and its mission for the long term). 

These principles ensure that Scranton graduates not only understand data, but also the impact their decisions have on people and communities. 

Exploring Different Types of Business Programs

At The University of Scranton, you can choose from several programs tailored to your background and career goals — ranging from a short graduate certificate to full master’s degrees and specialized tracks.

1. Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics 

Best for: Professionals looking to test the field or upskill quickly. 

If you’re curious about analytics but not ready to commit to a full degree, Scranton’s Business Analytics Certificate offers a flexible entry point. 

This 12-credit, fully online program introduces you to data mining, visualization and statistical modeling — essential tools for interpreting and communicating data effectively. 

Program highlights: 

• Can be completed in 8 months,100% online. 
• Focus on foundational analytics tools and techniques, including data mining and visualization.
• Builds essential skills that can be applied immediately in your current role.
• Credits can often be applied toward a full master’s program at Scranton. 

This program is an ideal way to build confidence and credentials in a growing field. 

2. Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Business Analytics Specialization

Best for: Professionals who want to lead teams and drive strategy through data. 

The MBA in Business Analytics blends leadership training with advanced analytics knowledge. 

This AACSB-accredited program — a distinction earned by only about 5% of business schools worldwide — equips students with in-demand business intelligence and strategic decision-making skills. 

Program highlights: 

• Can be completed in two years, online or on campus.
• No GRE or GMAT required.
• Part-time options and six start dates per year.
• Emphasis on the Triple Bottom Line Theory: economic success, social responsibility and environmental stewardship. 

Graduates emerge prepared for roles such as business strategy analyst, operations manager or data-driven consultant — ready to lead ethically in a complex, data-rich business world. 

3. Master of Science in Business Analytics  

Best for: Those seeking deep technical and analytical expertise. 

The MS in Business Analytics is designed for professionals who want to master advanced data tools and methodologies. It provides comprehensive training in predictive modeling, machine learning and data-driven problem solving. 

Program highlights: 

• Can be completed in 18 months, online or on campus.
• Emphasis on hands-on data analysis and visualization.
• Curriculum blends business strategy and technical depth.
• Ethical use of data remains central to every course. 

Graduates are prepared for roles like data scientist, business analyst or operations research analyst — equipped to make measurable impact in any industry. 

4. Master of Accountancy (MAcc) - Accounting Analytics Specialization 

Best for: Accounting professionals aiming to enhance their data analysis expertise. 

The MAcc with an Accounting Analytics Specialization helps accountants harness data to improve audits, detect fraud, and provide more strategic financial insights. 

Program highlights: 

• Can be completed in as little as 12–18 months, 100% online. 
• AACSB-accredited with strong preparation for the CPA exam.  
• No entrance exams required. 
• Focuses on ethics, analytics and leadership — hallmarks of Scranton’s Jesuit approach. 

This program is perfect for accountants who want to move from reporting the numbers to interpreting them — and guiding organizations with confidence and integrity. 

5. Master of Science in Finance - Financial Analytics Specialization

Best for: Finance professionals who want to use data to guide investment and strategy decisions. 

Scranton’s MS in Finance with a Financial Analytics Specialization combines financial acumen with advanced analytics, helping students model financial performance and manage risk in a data-rich environment. 

Program highlights: 

• Can be completed in 12 months, online or on campus. 
• Integrates quantitative methods and financial modeling. 
• Develops skills in using analytics for portfolio management and forecasting. 
• Emphasizes ethical decision-making in global finance. 

This program is ideal for those pursuing careers as financial analysts, investment strategists, or risk managers. 

6. Master of Science in Health Informatics - Data Analytics Specialization 

Best for: Healthcare professionals interested in using data to improve patient outcomes. 

The MS in Health Informatics with a Data Analytics Specialization blends technology, data science, and healthcare management to prepare professionals who can turn health data into actionable insights. This program equips students to improve patient care, streamline operations, and inform data-driven decision-making across the healthcare industry. 

Program highlights: 

• Can be completed in 2.5 years, online or on campus. 
• Focuses on data interpretation, patient care analytics and system efficiency. 
• Prepares graduates to manage and analyze complex health data sets. 
• Designed for clinicians, administrators, and IT professionals in healthcare. 

If you’re passionate about improving healthcare through data, this program provides both the tools and the ethical framework to make a difference. 

How to Choose the Right Business Analytics Program

Choosing the right business analytics educational path depends on your career goals, background, and how deeply you want to specialize. Whether you’re a professional looking to strengthen your data skills, pivot into analytics, or advance into leadership, Scranton offers flexible options to fit your path. 

Goal	Recommended Program
Gain analytics skills quickly	Graduate Certificate
Lead business strategy	MBA - Business Analytics
Enhance accounting expertise	MAcc - Accounting Analytics
Master data analytics techniques	MS in Business Analytics
Apply analytics in finance	MS in Finance - Financial Analytics
Use data to improve healthcare	MS in Health Informatics - Data Analytics

All Scranton programs share one key advantage: flexibility for working professionals. Each is offered 100% online with part-time options and designed to support your personal and professional commitments.

Why Choose The University of Scranton?

What sets Scranton apart isn’t just its rankings or rigorous academics — it’s the values and experiences behind them. 

At The University of Scranton, business analytics education is designed to develop professionals who can think critically, act ethically, and use data to make a positive difference. Whether you’re pursuing a certificate or a master’s degree, you’ll benefit from the same core advantages that define Scranton’s AACSB-accredited Kania School of Management.

You’ll find: 

• AACSB-accredited excellence: Accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business ensures your degree meets the highest standards in business education. 
• STEM-designated curriculum: Scranton’s programs combine technical skills in analytics and data modeling with a strong business foundation, preparing graduates for future-ready roles across industries. This designation can help international students gain additional internship experience after graduation. 
• Hands-on, applied learning: Coursework integrates real-world business tools and case studies, helping you build practical experience with data analysis, visualization and decision modeling. 
• Personalized attention and mentoring: Small class sizes and engaged faculty create a collaborative environment where you’ll be supported every step of the way. 
• Jesuit values and ethical leadership: Guided by Jesuit principles cura personalis (care for the whole person), rei solicitude (attentive care and active concern for the well-being of society and others) and cura apostolica (caring for the collective enterprise and its mission for the long-term), Scranton’s analytics programs emphasize using data responsibly and leading with integrity. 
• Flexibility and accessibility: 100% online options for graduate learners, no standardized test requirements, and multiple start dates each year. 

When you study business analytics at Scranton, you don’t just learn how to interpret data — you learn how to lead with it, applying analytical insight and moral clarity to every decision you make. 

Find a Program That Fits

Whether you want to gain analytical skills for your current job, transition into a data-focused role, or lead a team with confidence and insight, there’s a Scranton program that fits your journey. 
Explore all of Scranton’s Business Analytics Programs and take the next step toward a data-driven career that makes a difference.