Data-Driven Business Insights
Become a Data Storyteller
Move Business Forward
Why McCombs?
AI & Analytics at the Core of MSBA
The McCombs School of Business’ MS in Business Analytics degree program equips students with market‑ready AI and machine learning skills for the modern enterprise. Students develop expertise across the end‑to‑end analytics lifecycle – combining predictive and prescriptive analytics with advanced machine learning techniques, including deep learning, to drive measurable business impact.
Coursework introduces generative AI applications for business, including LLM‑driven text analytics and AI models for unstructured data such as text and images. Students learn to collaborate effectively with AI – moving from AI models to AI systems – by designing end‑to‑end workflows, applying agentic AI concepts, and orchestrating AI‑driven problem solving in organizational contexts.
Throughout the program, students focus on what matters most: turning AI outputs into business outcomes. Emphasis on human‑AI collaboration, enterprise decision‑making with AI, and responsible and ethical AI deployment ensures graduates are prepared to lead analytics and AI initiatives across organizations. The curriculum also addresses AI governance and risk‑aware analytics, preparing students to work with privacy‑preserving and trustworthy AI systems.
Industry-Guided Curriculum
Alongside our world-class faculty and dedicated support staff, McCombs’ strong industry connections help ensure students graduate capable of turning analytical expertise into meaningful business impact. Each specialized master’s degree program receives guidance from an advisory council that helps shape curriculum, ensure relevance to industry, and connect students with networking and career opportunities.
Ed Tonkin is the president of Zebra Technologies and a longtime member of the McCombs MSBA Advisory Council. In this video, he discusses the importance of evolving the curriculum alongside technological innovation while maintaining a focus on data-supported storytelling. As Ed explains, learning “to take some very complex technology and advanced analytics and articulate it into a story of a business outcome” is one of the program’s most valuable components.
MSBA Statistics
McCombs MSBA program prepares you to lead in an emerging field. Business analytics and data science roles rank among the top emerging jobs in the U.S., with double‑digit growth, hundreds of thousands of new positions, and average salaries near $100,000 a year.
MSBA FAQ
How does Texas McCombs’ MS in Business Analytics prepare students for careers in an AI-driven business world?
Artificial intelligence is reshaping business, increasing demand for professionals who can combine analytics expertise with strategic decision-making. Employers need analysts who can apply AI tools responsibly, evaluate results, and translate insights into business value.
The Texas McCombs MS in Business Analytics program prepares students for these roles through hands-on experience with modern AI and analytics technologies in real business contexts. Students learn how AI supports enterprise decision-making, how analytics teams operate, and how to communicate insights to technical and non-technical audiences.
The program also emphasizes AI governance, ethical deployment, and risk-aware decision-making, preparing graduates to lead analytics initiatives and adapt as AI technologies evolve.
What qualifications or prerequisites do I need to apply to the MSBA program?
The admissions process is holistic, meaning we consider your academic background, professional experience, and overall readiness. GMAT and GRE scores are optional, and international applicants may be required to submit English language proficiency scores.
Minimum eligibility includes completion of an undergraduate degree (all majors welcome) and adequate preparation to be successful in a quantitative program, which typically includes coursework in calculus and statistics, along with experience in object-oriented programming (such as Python, Java, or C++).
If you feel that you may need additional quantitative or programming experience, contact the McCombs Master of Science in Business Analytics Admissions team at TexasMSBA@mccombs.utexas.edu or (512) 232-4668 to inquire about prerequisite course recommendations.
What is the difference between the full-time MSBA and the Working Professionals (MSBA-WP) program?
Both formats offer the same STEM-designated Master of Science in Business Analytics degree, with the same curriculum, courses, and learning outcomes. The difference is how the program is delivered.
The full-time MSBAis a 10-month, on-campus immersive experience in Austin.
The MSBA for Working Professionals (MSBA-WP)is a part-time, 23-month program designed for professionals who want to continue their professional development while developing advanced analytics and AI skills. The program combines online coursework with five in-person immersive experiences in Austin, enabling students to apply what they learn in real time within their professional environments.
More Than A Degree
Powerful Alumni Network
Outstanding Faculty
Top Advisory Council
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