Deep dive into the differences between an MSBA and an MBA

Understanding the differences between an MSBA and an MBA is important for students to choose the right path for their career goals.  

These two graduate business degrees are often confused for each other, with applicants often asking if the two are equivalent degrees. The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is concentrated on data analytics and its applications, while the Master of Business Administration (MBA) offers a broader education across various business disciplines.  

This deep dive provides a detailed exploration of the key differences between these two degrees to help you make an informed decision.  

Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)

MSBA program focus 

The MSBA emphasizes technical skills in data analysis and analytics tools. 

• Data-centric approach: The MSBA program is heavily focused on data analytics and its application in business decision-making.  
• Technical skills: Students gain in-depth knowledge of data mining, statistical and quantitative analysis, multivariate testing, and predictive modeling 
• Specialized courses: Coursework typically includes subjects such as data visualization, predictive modeling, machine learning, big data technologies, and advanced analytics. 
• Quantitative emphasis: The program emphasizes quantitative and analytical skills, preparing students to handle large datasets and extract actionable insights. 
• Career path: Graduates are often prepared for roles where they can leverage data to make decisions such as data analysts, business intelligence analysts, marketing directors, data scientists, and analytics consultants. 

MSBA coursework 

Typical coursework equips students with advanced skills in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization. This curriculum ensures a comprehensive education in data analytics, equipping students with the skills needed for data-driven decision-making in various business contexts. 

These courses are typical of Northeastern's MSBA program: 

• Introduction to Business Analytics: Establishes a foundation in business analytics principles and practices. 
• Foundations of Data Analysis for Business: Covers statistical methods and data analysis techniques essential for business applications. 
• Data Wrangling for Business: Focuses on cleaning, transforming, and organizing data for analysis. 
• Information Visuals and Dashboards for Business: Teaches how to create visual representations of data using tools like Tableau and Power BI. 
• Data Mining and Machine Learning for Business: Explores machine learning, predictive modeling, and data mining techniques. 
• Business Information Design, Quality, and Strategy: Covers strategies for designing, ensuring the quality of, and utilizing business information effectively. 
• Business Analytics Capstone: Involves a hands-on project addressing practical data analytics challenges. 

Here are a sample of electives Northeastern's MSBA program offers: 

• Global Talent Management: Examines the application of analytics in managing global talent. 
• Database Management for Business: Teaches techniques for managing and utilizing business databases. 
• Modeling for Business: Focuses on creating mathematical and statistical models for business decision-making. 
• Operations and Supply Chain Management: Covers the fundamentals of managing operations and supply chains. 
• Supply Chain Analytics: Applies analytics techniques to optimize supply chain processes. 
• Workforce Metrics and Analytics: Explores the use of analytics to manage and optimize workforce performance. 

Meet our MSBA students

How graduate co-op leveled up her skillset

“I worked as a business data analyst at Point 32 Health for my graduate co-op. I partnered with vendors to extract and retrieve data while working closely with the data management team holding meetings to discuss our work and act as a project manager.”

Fusing computer science experience with a passion for business

“My previous work experience taught me to make data more digestible for computers, but my time in the program has shown me how to do the same for people. Learning to analyze data for people and businesses has made me successful.”

Exploring how data impacts the world of business

“I am grateful that this program opened my eyes to the business world and made me curious about data and how companies use it. I am confident that I can bring the lessons I've learned and skills I've gained into my future career.”

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

MBA program focus

The MBA provides a comprehensive education in all major aspects of business management. 

• Broad Business Education: The MBA program offers a comprehensive education in various aspects of business management, including finance, marketing, operations, human resources, and strategic management. 
• Leadership and Management Skills: Students will gain skills in leadership, decision-making, problem-solving, and organizational behavior. 
• Diverse Curriculum: The coursework covers a wide range of topics such as corporate finance, marketing strategies, operations management, organizational behavior, and business ethics.  
• Comprehensive Business Perspective: The program prepares students to understand and manage various business functions through a well-rounded curriculum. Courses such as Analyzing Accounting Data for Strategic Decision Making, Managing Operations and the Supply Chain, and Innovation Driven Strategy provide a well-rounded foundation. 
• Career Path: Graduates are equipped for leadership and executive roles such as general managers, marketing managers, financial managers, consultants, and entrepreneurs, where they can oversee and coordinate various business activities. 
• Experiential Learning: Many programs give students the chance to amplify learning through experience, including an MBA internship or corporate residency. Through this experience, students apply their learnings at a real company, build relationships that form a professional network, and develop confidence from hands-on experience.