To earn a master's in business analysis, you will typically have to get a high school and undergraduate education before going on to enroll in this program. Once enrolled, you may have to spend about two years working toward this degree, though you might find some programs that require a shorter time commitment. As part of your studies, you will typically learn about such subjects as management and economics as well as strategies of business and financial analysis. This type of master's program may also help you build important communication and problem-solving skills.
In order to earn a master's in business analysis, you will typically have to meet educational prerequisites. This usually means earning a high school diploma or a General Educational Development® (GED®) diploma as well as a bachelor's degree. The type of degree you will need for admission to a business analysis master's program will likely depend on the school you choose. Some programs will give preference to students who have earned degrees in such majors as business, accounting, or finance, but other schools may accept well-qualified applicants from a variety of majors. In fact, you might even find some schools that have master's in business analysis programs specifically for those who do not have business backgrounds.
Once you've gained admission to the master's in business analysis program you choose, you will typically need about two years to complete the course of study. This is just the average amount of time that is required if you study on a full-time basis, however. If you choose to attend part time, you might need more time to complete the program. You may also find some programs that are designed for completion in just a year after graduating with a bachelor's degree. Often, such programs are designed for people who were not business majors in undergraduate school.
Earning a master's in business analysis usually means in-depth study of such topics as accounting, marketing, and management. Economic and finance topics are usually included as well. Your study may also provide you with the opportunity to learn about tools used in business analysis as well as opportunities to gain experience with some of the most common and useful analytic tools. This type of program is usually designed to help students build skills that are important for a career in business, including communication skills and the ability to problem solve.
A master's in business analysis program also will likely include courses in business statistics, business strategy, and risk management. Accounting and financial analysis courses as well as those in managerial economics, leadership, and business research, may be included as well. Additionally, the curriculum might cover technical communications and business modeling.