About the MSBA program
Harnessing the Power of Data.
Data has changed the way businesses make decisions. More than ever organizations need data-savvy leaders with strategies and approaches informed by data. Our MS in Business Analytics is an accelerated, highly selective, interdisciplinary, and industry-relevant program that teaches both the analytical mindset and the cutting-edge technical skills needed for success in today’s data analytics marketplace. Since launching in 2016, it has become established as one of the most innovative academic programs in the Business Analytics field and is led by some of the world’s best instructors.
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 JOB PLACEMENT
The MSBA is widely recognized as a top data science degree for business—consistently ranked among the highest-paying master’s professions. Cal Poly’s program was recently named a Top 10 MSBA program nationwide.
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.
Information Sessions return October 2025.
Check back soon—or email gradbusiness@calpoly.edu to be notified when dates are posted.