Data analytics involves the examination of raw data to analyze and predict patterns, trends and insights for better decision-making and business growth. This process gives business leadership the evidence-based and objective information to develop better strategies, adapt to market changes and optimize operations to improve performance.
Companies increasingly rely on data-driven strategies to gain a competitive edge, streamline costs, personalize marketing campaigns, and identify new opportunities for growth and success. This guide will offer a look at what you can do with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in data analytics degree, the skills you’ll learn and how the online MBA with a Concentration in Data Analytics program at Southeastern Oklahoma State University sets you up for a successful future in this high-demand field.
What Is an MBA in Data Analytics?
An MBA in data analytics covers core business topics, such as accounting and marketing, while also concentrating in depth on key analytics techniques, like data exploration and visualization, pattern discovery, predictive modeling, and forecasting. Students also learn how to use the data mining process, as documented by the cross-industry process for data mining (CRISP-DM), and implement valuation concepts and theories that translate into positive cash flow for businesses.
The key focus of this degree is learning how to use data to inform business aspects like strategy, efficiency and competitive advantage. Ideal candidates for this program include students with an aptitude for business acumen, data interpretation and strong problem-solving skills. Students who are comfortable with mathematics, statistics and working with analytical tools are also strong candidates.
Essential Skills Gained in a Data Analytics Program
The technical skills gained in a data analytics program provide a crucial analytical foundation, while the soft skills gained help students translate and transform it into actionable plans for business growth. Some examples of technical skills you will learn include programming languages (such as SQL and Python), statistical analysis, machine learning and spreadsheet management.
While the technical skills you will gain in a data analytics program are important, soft skills are what help you utilize and implement them effectively. Some examples of soft skills include critical thinking, communication and the interpretation of data, while applying it to real-world marketing and other key business applications. According to the Data Science Council of America (DASCA), these soft skills help you perform tasks like presenting findings in simple terms to stakeholders and collaborating with teams to create data-driven solutions that drive growth and solve business-related problems.
What Are the Career Paths With a Degree in Data Analytics?
An MBA in data analytics opens the door to high-level careers, including business owner, supply chain manager, financial analyst, marketing manager, business analytics specialist or management consultant. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national median pay for a financial analyst was $101,910 in 2024. Most of these higher-level careers see yearly salaries above $100,000.
Marketing managers receive a national median salary of approximately $126,960 per year, but a data analytics MBA can boost earning potential closer to the $239,200 earned by the top 10% of marketing managers. The growing demand for data-driven strategies and the increasing adoption of AI and similar technologies drive the need for high-paying executive positions, such as chief data officer or chief data and analytics officer.
Why Should You Pursue an MBA in Data Analytics?
As technology continues to develop and becomes increasingly vital for business success, the demand for graduates with an MBA in data analytics grows alongside it. This high level of demand translates into more competitive salaries and better potential for career growth and advancement.
According to the World Data Science and AI Initiative (WDSAI), recent surveys of big businesses found that over 90% are considering increasing spending for analytics and data infrastructure over the next one to two years. An MBA in data analytics is a versatile degree that applies to multiple industries in sectors like retail, manufacturing, technology and healthcare to provide a plethora of higher-level career paths.
Inside the Online MBA Program at Southeastern
Southeastern’s fully online and affordable MBA program is an excellent choice for professionals and small business owners who want to facilitate interaction between customers, suppliers and investors. Regardless of your specialization, the MBA program features core coursework with fundamentals in finance, accounting, economics and behavioral management. Students in the Data Analytics concentration will also take specialized courses like Predictive Analytics and Data Visualization, where they learn to build machine-learning environments and work through the complete data mining process, and Introduction to Data Analysis and Text Mining, which covers essential techniques in data exploration, pattern discovery and predictive modeling.
Southeastern’s John Massey School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), ensuring high-quality courses and the skill-building needed for a successful career. The flexible online format makes the MBA in Data Analytics degree particularly well-suited for working professionals, allowing them to balance coursework with career and personal commitments while advancing their business expertise.
Advance Your Business Degree Today With a Data Analytics Degree
With an online data analytics MBA degree from Southeastern, you’ll gain access to new, high-level career opportunities. The potential for a higher salary increases with this highly in-demand degree.
Southeastern equips grads with the leadership and technical skills they need to be successful in any field. Apply today to Southeastern’s online MBA in Data Analytics program and start your journey to a rewarding data analytics career.