What Can You Do With a Business Analytics Degree? Career Options & Salaries
In an increasingly data-driven world, business decisions are no longer made on intuition alone. Companies across every industry are harnessing the power of data to forecast trends, improve operations, and enhance customer experience. At the heart of this transformation are skilled professionals who can translate complex data into actionable insights—professionals with a degree in business analytics.
If you're considering a Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, you're positioning yourself at the forefront of this dynamic and evolving field. This guide explores the many career paths available with a business analytics degree, along with potential salaries, job outlook, and the unique benefits of pursuing this degree at Pepperdine.
Why Business Analytics Matters
Business analytics combines data science, statistics, and business strategy to help organizations make informed decisions. Professionals in this field use tools like machine learning, predictive modeling, and data visualization to solve real-world business problems.
Industries Seeking Business Analytics Graduates
Nearly every industry is experiencing a surge in data and an increasing need for analytics professionals. Sectors actively hiring business analytics graduates include:
- Healthcare
- Finance and banking
- Retail and e-commerce
- Technology and software
- Manufacturing and supply chain
- Marketing and advertising
- Government and public policy
- Entertainment and media
Top Career Paths for Business Analytics Graduates
Graduates of a business analytics program can pursue a wide range of roles, depending on their interests, technical skills, and industry preferences.
1. Data Analyst
Key responsibilities:
- Collect, clean, and analyze datasets
- Create dashboards and reports
- Support decision-making with data-driven insights
Average Salary: $70,000–$90,000
High-demand industries: Finance, healthcare, government, marketing
2. Business Intelligence Analyst
Key responsibilities:
- Develop and manage BI tools and systems
- Translate data trends into business strategies
- Collaborate with stakeholders on KPIs and reporting
Average Salary: $80,000–$100,000
Ideal for: Professionals who enjoy storytelling through data visualization
3. Data Scientist
Key responsibilities:
- Develop predictive models and algorithms
- Conduct exploratory data analysis
- Utilize machine learning for pattern recognition
Average Salary: $100,000–$130,000
Typical background: Strong coding and statistical skills
4. Quantitative Analyst (Quant)
Key responsibilities:
- Apply statistical models to manage financial risk
- Forecast market trends and portfolio performance
- Build trading algorithms
Average Salary: $120,000–$150,000+
Common industries: Investment banking, hedge funds, fintech
5. Marketing Analyst
Key responsibilities:
- Analyze customer data to optimize campaigns
- Identify market trends and customer segments
- Measure ROI of marketing initiatives
Average Salary: $65,000–$85,000
In demand in: Digital marketing agencies, e-commerce, retail
6. Operations Analyst
Key responsibilities:
- Streamline business processes using data
- Identify inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities
- Support supply chain and logistics planning
Average Salary: $70,000–$90,000
Ideal for: Analytical minds interested in systems improvement
7. Management Consultant (Analytics Focus)
Key responsibilities:
- Advise organizations on strategy using data insights
- Implement data-driven business transformations
- Work across various industries and client types
Average Salary: $90,000–$120,000 (plus bonuses)
Great for: Professionals who enjoy variety and problem-solving
8. Product Analyst
Key responsibilities:
- Evaluate product performance through analytics
- Support feature development and user experience enhancements
- Collaborate with design and engineering teams
Average Salary: $80,000–$105,000
Popular in: Tech startups, SaaS companies, mobile apps
| Quantitative Analyst | $140,000 | Finance |
| Marketing Analyst | $75,000 | Retail |
| Operations Analyst | $85,000 | Manufacturing |
| Management Consultant | $110,000 | Consulting |
| Product Analyst | $95,000 | Software |
| Job Title | Average Salary (U.S.) | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|
| Data Analyst | $80,000 | Finance |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $90,000 | Healthcare |
| Data Scientist | $115,000 | Tech |
Note: Salaries vary based on experience, location, and company size.
Career Outlook: Growing Demand Across the Board
The demand for business analytics professionals continues to outpace supply. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
“Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23% from 2021 to 2031—much faster than the average for all occupations.”
This growth is driven by increasing data availability, the rise of AI, and the need for data-informed strategy.
Job Titles to Watch for in Job Searches
When looking for roles after completing your MS in Business Analytics or Online MS in Business Analytics, keep an eye out for related job titles such as:
- Analytics Consultant
- Data Engineer
- Business Systems Analyst
- Customer Insights Analyst
- Strategy Analyst
Skills You’ll Develop in Pepperdine’s MS in Business Analytics Program
At Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, the MS in Business Analytics program equips students with a blend of technical and strategic skills, including:
- Data mining and warehousing
- Statistical modeling and forecasting
- Python, R, SQL, and Tableau proficiency
- Data storytelling and visualization
- Business strategy alignment
- Ethical data usage
Certification Prep
The curriculum also supports readiness for professional certifications such as:
- Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate
- Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)
- Tableau Desktop Specialist
Benefits of Earning Your Business Analytics Degree at Pepperdine
Pepperdine's MS in Business Analytics program offers students a unique blend of rigor, flexibility, and real-world relevance. Key benefits include:
✔ Industry-Aligned Curriculum
Developed with input from top employers to ensure real-world application.
✔ Career Services Support
Dedicated advisors assist with resume building, interview prep, and job placement.
✔ Hands-On Projects
Gain experience solving real business challenges using industry tools.
✔ Ethical Leadership Focus
Learn to lead with integrity and navigate the ethical dimensions of data.
Is a Business Analytics Degree Right for You?
A business analytics degree is ideal if you:
✅ Enjoy working with data and solving complex problems
✅ Have an interest in business strategy and decision-making
✅ Want to work in a high-growth, high-demand field
✅ Are looking to pivot into analytics from another role or industry
FAQs About Careers in Business Analytics
Q: Do I need a technical background to pursue a business analytics degree?
A: While technical skills help, Pepperdine’s program is designed to support students
from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.
Q: Is this degree useful for entrepreneurship?
A: Absolutely. Business analytics can help entrepreneurs make smarter decisions,
understand customers, and optimize business performance.
Q: Can I switch industries with this degree?
A: Yes. Business analytics skills are highly transferable and valued in many sectors.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're looking to break into or advance in the world of business analytics, Pepperdine’s MSBA program can help you develop the skills and experience needed to succeed.
✅ Learn more: MS in Business Analytics Program and Online MS in Business Analytics
✅ Get started today: Apply Now