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Pepperdine | Graziadio Business School

Online Master of Science in Business Analytics Curriculum

Lead with Insight in a Data-Driven World

The Pepperdine Graziadio Online Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is designed for working professionals who want to harness the power of data to drive strategic decision-making, without stepping away from their careers. In today’s data-driven economy, organizations need leaders who can translate complex analytics into actionable business insights.

This fully online, STEM-designated program integrates analytics, technology, and business strategy in a flexible, structured format. Delivered through live, faculty-led virtual classes, the curriculum emphasizes collaboration, real-time engagement, and immediate application.

In as few as 16 months, you’ll build advanced technical expertise in predictive analytics, optimization modeling, and data management, while strengthening your ability to communicate insights and influence business outcomes.

Core Curriculum

The Online MS in Business Analytics program consists of 25 units of core coursework and 6 units of electives, focused on decision sciences, information systems, and technology management.

Core Courses (25 units)

  Personal and Leadership Development Workshop


BSCI 650 (1 unit)

Engage in experiential learning focused on communication, leadership, and team effectiveness.

  Advanced Statistical Tools


DESC 620 (2 units)

Apply statistical techniques to analyze data and support complex decision-making.

  Optimization Modeling


DESC 622 (2 units)

Learn how to design models that optimize business performance and resource allocation.

  Predictive Analytics


DESC 624 (2 units)

Use data to forecast trends and inform strategic decisions.

  Simulation Modeling


DESC 626 (2 units)

Model real-world uncertainty and evaluate potential business outcomes.

  Communications with Data


DESC 629 (2 units)

Translate data insights into clear, compelling narratives for stakeholders.

  Multiple Attribute Decision Analysis


DESC 637 (2 units)

Evaluate complex decisions using structured, multi-criteria approaches.

  Social Media Analytics


ISTM 622 (2 units)

Analyze digital engagement and extract insights from social platforms.

  Databases and Big Data Management


ISTM 624 (2 units)

Manage large datasets and understand modern data infrastructure.

 

  Applying Analytics to Achieve Business Impact


ISTM 626 (2 units)

Bridge analytics and strategy to drive measurable organizational outcomes.

  Marketing Informatics


ISTM 627 (2 units)

Leverage data to inform marketing strategy and customer insights.

  Programming for Business Analytics 


ISTM 631, 2 units)

Develop programming skills using tools such as Python, SQL, and R.

  Business Process Analysis and Innovation


ISTM 664 (2 units)

Evaluate and improve business processes using analytics and technology.

 

Electives (6 units)

Complete 6 units of electives to deepen your expertise:

  Valuation of Real Options


DESC 621 (2 units)

Apply option pricing methods to evaluate real-world assets and quantify the value of managerial flexibility beyond traditional financial models. The course introduces decision analysis, dynamic modeling techniques, and tools such as binomial lattices, with hands-on experience using analytical software.

  Supply Chain Management Analytics


DESC 627 (2 units)

Explore how data-driven models inform supply chain and logistics decision-making. Emphasis is placed on demand forecasting, data analysis, and vendor management through real-world case studies and simulations.

  Healthcare Analytics.


DESC 628 (2 units)

Gain a foundation in healthcare research methods, data analysis, and operations management techniques. Using a case-based approach, students apply statistical and analytical tools to real-world healthcare management and policy challenges.

  Project Management


DESC 636 (2 units)

This course provides an introduction to and overview of the variety of topics and diverse functions of project management. The fundamental theory of each function will be explored, and the essential project management skills, practices, and tools will be identified.

  Entertainment, Media, and Sports Analytics


DESC 660 (2 units)

Examine how analytics drives decision-making across sports, entertainment, and media industries. Through case studies and applied projects, students explore topics such as pricing strategy, fan engagement, sponsorship valuation, and digital marketing analytics.

  Information Security Data Analytics


ISTM 630 (2 units)

Learn how to apply data analytics to identify, assess, and mitigate information security risks. The course emphasizes user behavior analytics and risk-based approaches to help organizations anticipate and respond to potential threats.

  Business Analytics and Intelligence


ISTM 660 (2 units)

Discover how organizations leverage data to drive strategy and performance through analytics and business intelligence systems. Topics include data mining, visualization, predictive analytics, and enterprise data strategy, with hands-on projects using real-world datasets.

  Contemporary Issues in Business and Management 


PGBS 698 (2 units)

This course will provide students with the opportunity to study specific contemporary issues or topics in business and management. This course may be repeated as content changes.

  Competitive Intelligence


STGY 621 (2 units)

Explore how organizations use competitive intelligence to inform strategy and maintain advantage. The course covers intelligence gathering, analysis, ethics, and application in real-world decision-making contexts.

 

 

Take the Next Step

Learn more about how to achieve your career goals with the Pepperdine Graziadio Online MS in Business Analytics Program.


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What Can Students Expect?

Our program was shaped by the belief that leadership is best developed through a blend of rigorous academic training and real-world application. We drew inspiration from our Southern California business community, our deep ties to entrepreneurial and values-driven leadership, and our mission to prepare students not just to succeed in business — but to lead with integrity.

 

 

AI-Driven, Industry-Relevant Curriculum

Develop expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics tools that are embedded throughout the program.

 

Your Own Timeline

Complete as quickly as 16 months. Progress through studies on your timeline, adjusting to your changing responsibilities.

 

Career-Focused Development

Master descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics techniques, along with programming languages such as Python, SQL, and R, and visualization tools like Tableau.

 

Real-World Application

Apply concepts through case studies, simulations, and hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.

 

Accelerated MBA Pathway

Fast-track your MBA by transferring 20 units toward your core MBA courses.

 

Collaborative Online Environment

Engage in small classes with a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, fostering meaningful interaction and personalized support.

 

Balancing Theory and Hands-On Experience

The Online MSBA curriculum bridges technical expertise and business strategy through a strong emphasis on application. This is reinforced through:

 

  • Case-Based Learning: Analyze real-world scenarios to develop practical problem-solving skills.
  • Simulations and Applied Exercises: Practice decision-making in dynamic, business-like environments.
  • CRISP-DM Framework: Apply a widely used, industry-agnostic approach to structuring data analytics projects.
  • Data-Driven Storytelling: Learn to communicate insights effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

PTMBA teacher with small class

 

PTMBA students in South Korea

 

Learn in Global Destination

Our Online MSBA program includes opportunities to broaden your perspective through immersive international learning experiences.

One of the program’s most popular electives features a week-long Global Business Intensive (GBI), where students travel abroad to engage directly with international businesses, policy leaders, and diverse economic systems. You'll explore how cultural, regulatory, and economic factors shape global markets while building relationships with peers and professionals from around the world.

Whether you're visiting financial institutions in London, startups in Berlin, or supply chains in Singapore, these experiences equip you with a sharper, more nuanced understanding of global business strategy, giving you the insight to lead confidently across borders.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  What makes the Online MSBA program unique?

The program combines a fully online, live-learning format with a STEM-designated curriculum and strong emphasis on real-world application.

  How are classes delivered?

Courses are taught live via Zoom, allowing for direct engagement with faculty and peers each week.

  How long does it take to complete the program?

The program can be completed in as few as 16 months.

  Will I gain hands-on experience?

Yes. You’ll work on applied exercises, case studies, and simulations using real-world data throughout the program.

  Do I need test scores to apply?

No. GMAT and GRE scores are not required.

  Is there any in-person component?

Yes. Students participate in a weekend immersion in Los Angeles at the beginning of the program.