The MS in Business Analytics and Data Science (MS BAnDS) is a STEM designated program that develops the next generation of analytics and data
science professionals to tackle real-world challenges. In 2022-23, our program was
ranked No. 15 by Fortune’s Best Master’s Programs in Data Science and as 19th in the TFE times ranking of Master’s Programs in Business Analytics. We use state-of-the-art enterprise level
analytics software. The program is fully multi-platform and students get hands-on
training with software and tools such as Alteryx, Azure, Data Bricks, GCP, Power BI,
Python, R, SAS, SQL, Snowflake, Tableau and Tensor Flow which provide great advantages
in the competitive job market.
The MS BAnDS program requires 38 credit hours* (check our Plan of Study page for core course details, electives and software used in each core course) and
graduates typically find employment as data scientists, data/business analysts or consultants, or statistical analysts.
Beyond core courses, all students have the choice of specializing in various pre-approved
options or creating a completely customized set of electives to fit their career goals.
While the full-time program is designed to be 21 months, it is crafted in such a way
to allow students to pursue flexible internships/externships with companies that can
last from 3 to 11 months in the last year of a student’s program.
*Pending Regents Approval
Research and Faculty
OSU faculty, including Dr. Goutam Chakraborty, director of the MS-BAnDS program and chair of the SAS Global Forum
2018, are recognized nationally for their expertise in the field.
OSU students attend some of the top analytics conferences across the United States,
and many are given the opportunity to present papers, often winning or placing among the best.
Admissions
Admissions are decided on a holistic approach with successful candidates meeting the
following preferences:
GMAT or GRE are required with minimum recommended scores above the 51st percentile in each of the test areas. Waivers may be possible for US citizens or,
for those applying for online program on a case-by-case basis. Contact the program
coordinator with your resume to see if you qualify for GRE/GMAT waiver.
Work experience is considered during the application review process and is strongly
encouraged for all candidates.
Priority deadline, Jan. 15; Final deadline, March 1. Admissions is for the Fall semester
only for on-campus students. Applications completed after the final deadline will
be considered based on availability (for domestic students only).
For international students, a TOEFL or IELTS score may be required for admission to
OSU, as indicated by the Graduate College. If a TOEFL/IELTS is required, the minimum
TOEFL score for admission is 89 iBT and the minimum IELTS score is 6.5. The completion
of an undergrad degree prior to enrollment in our program is required.
Cost for each program will vary depending on credit-hours taken, scholarship funding,
assistantships and financial aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student
Aid (FAFSA) to calculate eligibility for aid.Students planning to enroll under F-1 visa status should not complete the FAFSA, although
eligibility for merit and need-based aid will be further determined through a process
provided by the program post-admission.
Assistantships vary by department. Please contact the program coordinator for information
on assistantships and funding opportunities.