M.S. in Business Analytics

The Master of Science in Business Analytics at the University of Illinois at Chicago is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the advanced skills required to analyze complex business problems and make data-driven decisions. This innovative curriculum combines coursework in statistics, data mining, machine learning, and information systems with practical applications across various industries. Students will learn how to collect, process, and interpret large volumes of data, transforming raw information into actionable insights that can enhance organizational performance. The program emphasizes the development of technical proficiencies in programming languages such as Python and R, along with proficiency in data visualization and database management. Through hands-on projects, industry collaborations, and laboratory exercises, students will gain real-world experience in tackling issues like customer behavior analysis, supply chain optimization, and marketing analytics. The MS in Business Analytics prepares graduates for roles such as data analyst, business intelligence analyst, data scientist, and decision support specialist. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a strategic mindset necessary for leadership in today's data-driven economy. Students will benefit from the university’s strong ties with industry partners, offering internship opportunities and networking events that facilitate career advancement. With a flexible curriculum that combines online and on-campus classes, the program is accessible to working professionals seeking to enhance their expertise. Upon completion, students will have a thorough understanding of the principles and techniques of business analytics, along with expertise in applying these skills to drive innovation and growth within organizations. The University of Illinois at Chicago's MS in Business Analytics is committed to preparing students to meet the evolving challenges of the modern business landscape through rigorous coursework, experiential learning, and a vibrant academic community.

• IDS 521 Advanced Database Management    
• IDS 560 Analytics Strategy and Practice    
• IDS 572 Data Mining for Business    
• IDS 575 Statistical Models and Methods for Business Analytics    
• IDS 517 Enterprise Application Development    
• IDS 520 Enterprise Information Infrastructure Planning & Security    
• IDS 514 Management of Information Systems    
• IDS 515 Information Systems Strategy and Policy    
• IDS 523 Audit and Control of Information Systems    
• IDS 507 Advanced Systems Analysis and Design Project    
• IDS 508 E-Commerce Project    
• IDS 596 Independent Study in Information and Decision Sciences    
• IDS 435 Optimization Models and Methods    
• IDS 561 Analytics for Big Data    
• IDS 56 Social Media and Network Analysis    
• IDS 566 Advanced Text Analytics for Business    
• IDS 567 Business Data Visualization    
• IDS 576 Advanced Predictive Models and Applications for Business Analytics    
• IDS 594 Special Topics in Information and Decision Sciences

Admission Requirements

Applicants are considered on an individual basis. In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, applicants must meet the following program requirements:

• Baccalaureate Field Individuals from all baccalaureate fields are encouraged to apply. The exact course requirements will be determined based on an individual’s baccalaureate field and work experience. All applicants must have had the following background course work: mathematics through the level of calculus covering integration and differentiation, and statistics through regression analysis.
• Grade Point Average At least 3.00/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of undergraduate studies. Applicants with a master’s degree must have maintained a GPA of at least 3.00/4.00 in that program.
• Tests Required GMAT or GRE taken within five years of entry into the program.
  • UIC and UIUC students or alumni (graduated within five years of applying) with a cumulative GPA of 3.00/4.00 and a GPA of 3.00/4.00 in selected IDS-related courses will be waived from the GMAT or GRE requirement.
• Minimum English Competency Test Score
  • TOEFL 585 (paper-based); 80, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, and Writing 21 (iBT Internet-based), OR,
  • IELTS 6.5, with subscores of 6.0 for all four subscores, OR,
  • PTE-Academic 54, with subscores of Reading 51, Listening 47, Speaking 53, and Writing 56.
• Letters of Recommendation Two required.
• Personal Statement Required.

Graduate Assistantships

Students who enrolled for eight or more credit hours during the fall and spring semesters are eligible to apply for a graduate assistantship. These on-campus job opportunities provide students with a partial tuition waiver and a stipend that varies in amount according to the time worked. They also provide valuable work experience in areas related to their degree program. Students are responsible for finding their own assistantships, just as one would find a job.

Partial Tuition Waivers

A number of partial tuition and fee waivers are available for incoming UIC Liautaud students. Funding awards are based on academic merit. Students do not need to apply separately for a waiver. You will be notified during the admissions process if you are being considered for a scholarship or a partial tuition and service fee waiver.

We also offer the Liautaud Scholars program for highly qualified full-time MBA students, a program that includes merit-based scholarships providing tuition remission. Ask an admissions representative to learn more about the program.

The Master of Science in Business Analytics at the University of Illinois at Chicago is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to analyze data effectively and make data-driven business decisions. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating statistics, computer science, and business disciplines to prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving field of analytics. Students in this program will learn how to collect, process, and analyze complex data sets, utilize advanced analytics tools and techniques, and communicate insights clearly to stakeholders. The curriculum typically includes coursework in data mining, machine learning, data visualization, and optimization, along with strategic management principles. The program aims to develop both technical proficiency and managerial skills, enabling graduates to pursue careers as data analysts, business analysts, data scientists, or analytics managers across various industries including finance, healthcare, marketing, and consulting. Designed for working professionals and recent graduates alike, the program offers flexible scheduling options such as part-time study, with courses delivered through a combination of on-campus and online formats. The faculty comprises experienced researchers and practitioners in the field of analytics, providing students with valuable mentorship and industry connections. Graduates of the program will be prepared to interpret complex data, develop predictive models, and support decision-making processes at a strategic level. The program often emphasizes practical experience through projects, internships, or capstone courses, ensuring students gain real-world skills and industry exposure. Overall, the MS in Business Analytics at UIC seeks to produce highly competent professionals capable of meeting the increasing demand for analytics expertise in today’s data-driven economy.