In this fast-paced age, business has become more competitive due to globalisation and the blend of technology with commerce. Companies need to compete, grow, and achieve the goals of bringing in massive profits; business analysts are a key aspect of that.
What is business analytics?
Business analytics studies an organisation’s data through statistical methods and operations analysis. It requires quantitative methods and evidence-based data to measure business performance. It involves developing foretelling models and applying maximization techniques to a specific project, process, or product.
What is the difference between a business analyst and data analyst?
Business analysts primarily focus on understanding business processes, identifying areas for improvement, and proposing solutions to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness. Data analysts analyse and interpret data to extract meaningful insights that can inform business decision-making.
What will you learn?
- Description, prediction and taking business decisions in marketing, human resources, finance and operations
- Development of basic data literacy & an analytical mindset to make strategic decisions
- Applying specialised techniques and tools and making use of programming software and management skills to improve efficiency
Learn more about the best UK universities for business analytics below (QS Business Master’s Rankings 2024: Business Analytics) and begin your application by arranging your free consultation with SI-UK today.
Best UK Universities for MSc in Business Analytics
Below is the list of the ten best UK universities for an MSc in business analytics, according to the QS World University Rankings 2024.
1. Imperial College Business School
The Imperial College Business School at Imperial College London offers a Master's in Business Analytics programme designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of data analytics in business decision-making. The curriculum includes core modules in business analytics, statistics, and programming and electives that allow students to specialise in marketing, financial, and healthcare analytics.
Students also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects with industry partners, gaining hands-on experience and applying their skills to real-world business challenges.
- Suggested course: MSc Business Analytics
- Entry requirements: First or 2:1 in a quantitative subject such as Mathematics, Statistics, Computer science, Engineering, Physics or a quantitative economics degree.
- International fees: £41,000
2. Warwick Business School
Warwick Business School at the University of Warwick offers a variety of courses in business analytics, including MSc Business Analytics, a full-time, one-year degree designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to use data analytics to solve business problems, the MSc Finance and Business Analytics, which combines the core concepts of finance with analytics and data science, and the MSc Marketing and Business Analytics, which is designed to provide students with the tools and knowledge needed to apply data analytics to marketing and related fields.
- Suggested course: MSc Business Analytics
- Entry requirements: A 2.1 degree at undergraduate level from a UK university, or overseas equivalent from a top-performing University.
- International fees: £35,350
3. Alliance Manchester Business School
Alliance Manchester Business School at the University of Manchester offers several business analytics programmes at the Master's level, including a Master's in Business Analytics and a Master's in Business Analytics and Big Data. The Master's in Business Analytics programme focuses on developing analytical and technical skills for analysing complex business data and the business acumen needed to apply these skills to solve real-world business problems. Students learn about data management, statistical analysis, visualisation, and predictive modelling.
- Suggested course: MSc Business Analytics
- Entry requirements: A First or Upper Second class honours degree (2:1, with 60% average) from a UK university or the overseas equivalent.
- International fees: £33,000
4. University of Edinburgh Business School
The University of Edinburgh Business School offers its flagship MSc Business Analytics, designed to provide students with a strong foundation in business analytics, including data mining, machine learning, and statistical analysis. Students will also learn how to communicate data insights to business leaders. An MBA in Business Analytics is also available for professionals who want to develop their skills in business analytics.
- Suggested course: MSc in Business Analytics
- Entry requirements: UK first-class or 2:1 honours degree in a related subject or an equivalent overseas qualification.
- International fees: £31,300
5. Durham University Business School
The MSc Business Analytics at Durham University is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to analyse large data sets and make informed business decisions. Students will develop a critical awareness of current issues in business analytics, which is informed by leading research and practice in the field, and also develop a conceptual understanding of existing research and scholarship to identify new or revised approaches to business analytics practice.
- Suggested course: Business Analytics
- Entry requirements: A UK first or upper-second-class honours degree or international equivalent.
- International fees: £35,000
6. Leeds University Business School
Leeds University Business School offers the Business Analytics and Decision Sciences MSc, accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. Amidst the surge in big data, the course equips students to interpret and leverage information for evidence-based decision-making. It blends quantitative analytical skills with a management context, fostering a unique blend of technical proficiency and behavioural understanding. Taught by recognised academics, it emphasises real-world application, combining theoretical concepts with practical insights and providing access to resources in the Leeds Institute for Data Analytics.
- Suggested course: Business Analytics and Decision Sciences MSc
- Entry requirements: A bachelor's degree with a 2:1 (Hons) in a relevant subject.
- International fees: £30,250
7. Bath School of Management
The MSc in Business Analytics at the Bath School of Management focuses on equipping graduates for data and decision analysis careers. Focusing on the utilisation of 'big data,' the course teaches practical skills in business intelligence software and data interpretation. With guest lectures from industry experts and collaboration with IBM, Qlik, WinPure, and Women in OR & Analytics Network, students gain exposure to real-world applications. The programme's small class sizes help in individual interaction, and graduates are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in sectors experiencing high demand for analytics skills.
- Suggested course: MSc Business Analytics
- Entry requirements: 2:1 or above (or its international equivalent).
- International fees: £29,000
8. Lancaster University Management School
The MSc Business Analytics programme at Lancaster University is designed for those aspiring to careers in decision support, operational research, industrial engineering, or management science. The course covers the entire business analytics life cycle and emphasises hands-on application, teaching descriptive, predictive, and predictive analytics. With strong industry partnerships, including real-life analytics projects, Lancaster University pioneers analytics education in the UK and Europe, ensuring graduates possess valuable skills aligned with the evolving business analytics market.
- Suggested course: MSc Business Analytics
- Entry requirements: 2:2 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in a quantitative discipline such as Mathematics and/or Statistics or Engineering.
- International fees: £31,500
9. Nottingham University Business School
Nottingham University Business School's Business Analytics MSc, developed in collaboration with multinational companies and the Neo-demographic Laboratory for Analytics in Business (N/LAB), provides an industry-aligned skillset. The programme engages multinational partners, offering support, teaching contributions, and data access.
Students can opt for Microsoft and SAP digital qualifications, enhancing their digital skills. The course shapes business-oriented data scientists with technical proficiency, expertise in big data tools, and managerial skills, preparing them for senior roles in the digital economy. The curriculum includes core modules, optional subjects, and a data-driven dissertation project.
- Suggested course: Business Analytics MSc
- Entry requirements: 2:1 (or international equivalent) in any discipline; applicants should not have previously studied a significant amount of business analytics.
- International fees: £28,600
10. Bayes Business School
The Bayes Business School MSc Business Analytics programme prepares students for careers in the expanding field of data-driven business. The course covers essential business processes and focuses on extracting valuable insights from data to gain a competitive edge. Students develop analytical skills to solve complex organisational problems, emphasising effective communication of data, commercial acumen, strategic thinking, and a commitment to professional integrity and ethical considerations, providing a well-rounded foundation for a successful career in business analytics.
- Suggested course: Business Analytics MSc
- Entry requirements: A UK upper second-class degree or above or the equivalent from an overseas institution.
Study Business Analytics in the UK
If you want to apply for a business analytics course in the UK, arrange your free consultation today.
FAQ
Is pursuing an MSc in Business Analytics in the UK worth it?
Pursuing an MSc in business analytics in the UK can be worth it, depending on individual career goals, the reputation of the specific university, and the connections to industry partners. The UK is home to several prestigious institutions with strong business analytics programmes, offering valuable education and potential networking opportunities in a global business hub.
What is the average salary of an MSc in business analytics in the UK?
On average, business analytics professionals in the UK can earn competitive salaries, ranging from £30,000 to £70,000 or more per year, with higher salaries possible for those in managerial or specialised roles.
How do UK universities rank globally for business analytics master's degrees?
Several UK universities are recognised globally for their strong business analytics programmes. Universities such as Imperial College London, Warwick Business School, and Alliance Business School have been acknowledged for their excellence in business analytics education.
Are scholarships available for international students pursuing an MSc in business analytics in the UK?
UK universities offerscholarships and financial aid to international students, including those pursuing an MSc in business analytics. These scholarships can be institution-specific or may be sponsored by external organisations.
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