About the MSBA program
Harnessing the Power of Data.
Data and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming decision-making, and today’s organizations need leaders fluent in both. Since 2016, Cal Poly’s MS in Business Analytics has been recognized as one of the field’s most innovative programs, taught by faculty known for excellence in research and practice. This accelerated 10-month program blends advanced analytics, machine learning (ML), and data storytelling through an AI-first, industry-informed curriculum. Students collaborate with faculty and industry partners on real projects—building deployable AI and ML solutions in the cloud while learning to ask the right questions and communicate insights that drive action.
AI-first curriculum · Faculty-mentored industry projects · Deploy AI & ML in the cloud
Industry Connections
The MS in Business Analytics program is supported by the Business Analytics Advisory Board (BAAB), composed of senior leaders from companies like Google, Oracle, Tesla, and Netflix. The board helps align the curriculum with industry needs, ensuring students stay at the forefront of marketplace trends. This collaboration drives real-world projects—many featured in a recent Orfalea Business article. Chaired by Rich Clayton of Oracle, the BAAB meets 2–3 times annually, including at the MSBA-sponsored Analytics Forum each spring.
Hands-On Faculty Collaboration
Cal Poly’s Business Analytics Agency connects MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) students to Collaborative Industry Projects as their Culminating Experience. Led by faculty from Information Systems, Statistics, and Marketing, the agency partners with the Cal Poly Digital Transformation Hub, powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), giving students access to AWS-certified instruction and cloud-based tools. Students work on real-world challenges using proprietary datasets for organizations like AT&T, Oracle, and the World Bank—building in-demand skills while delivering tangible value.
EXCELLENT ANALYTICS Career Paths
The MSBA is widely recognized as a top data science degree for business—consistently ranked among the highest-paying master’s professions. Cal Poly is ranked the West's Best Overall Master's-Level University by U.S. News & World Report.
With over 100 alumni in the LinkedIn MSBA group since 2015, our network is strong and growing. MSBA graduates regularly land roles at top companies like Google, Oracle, Deloitte, Booz Allen Hamilton, PwC, Capital One, T-Mobile, Capgemini, Workday, Neustar, and the NFL.
Your Future Begins Now
Fall 2026 Application Cycle Opens: October 1, 2025
Join a top-ranked program where data meets decision-making. Gain real-world experience, collaborate with industry leaders, and graduate career-ready. Cal Poly’s MS in Business Analytics gives you the edge to lead in today’s analytics-driven business world.
Data-Driven. Future-Ready.
From data mining to econometrics, our curriculum embraces the latest approaches and developments in the data analytics field. We also offer a number of cutting-edge elective classes that allow students to explore concepts in more detail or develop category-specific skills and knowledge.
Distinguished Faculty
Our faculty are trailblazers in this field of education. Since launching Cal Poly’s MS Business Analytics program in 2016, they have authored multiple textbooks used by hundreds of universities around the world. Our MS Business Analytics students learn with some of the very best instructors in the field.
Student Success in Analytics
Catherine Cooper
William Gushurst
Izzy Kamrath
Peter Zwart Jr.
Information Sessions
Join us for an upcoming information session—offered on campus or virtually—to learn more about our graduate business programs. Program Directors will present key details about the program—including curriculum, admissions process, and more—and will be available to answer your questions.
| Program | Location | Date | Time (PST) | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS Business Analytics | Virtual | Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Register |
| MS Business Analytics | In-Person: Room 03-305 |
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 | 11:10 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Register |
| MS Business Analytics | Virtual | Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Register |
| MS Business Analytics | Virtual | Monday, December 15, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Register |
Lunch will be provided at all in-person sessions. Have questions? Contact us at gradbusiness@calpoly.edu