Should you pursue a Master of Science in Business Analytics or a Graduate Certificate?

Jennifer Anzaldi — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 13:46:13 +0000

Should you pursue a Master of Science in Business Analytics or a Graduate Certificate? Jennifer Anzaldi Tue, 10/25/2022 - 09:46

Data-based decisions drive businesses, and those who know how to analyze data help make their organizations more successful. ��AV’s School of Business, conveniently located in the Washington, D.C. metro area, offers two programs to help individuals effectively analyze big data through the hands-on use of modeling and other techniques with popular software tools.

The Master of Science in Business Analytics is a 30-credit (10-course) program that provides a holistic view of business data—from the collection, organization, reporting and mining of data to the extraction of useful and actionable information for the decision makers. This program can be completed in one year for full-time students or two years for part-time students. The master’s in business analytics is STEM designated and is offered in-person at our Fairfax campus.

The graduate certificate in business analytics is a 12-credit (4-course) certificate program that can be completed in one semester. Courses are offered in-person at the Fairfax campus or fully online. You can earn the certificate as a stand-alone option or apply your certificate credits towards the MBA or master’s in business analytics program electives.

If you want to become a data analysis expert who drives actionable business decisions, Mason’s graduate programs in business analytics are for you. You’ll learn to make better predictions, establish better strategies, and find business insights. Learn more about the Master of Science in Business Analytics program or our graduate certificate in business analytics.

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Costello College of Business News

Master's in Business Analytics Program

Is it the right time to pursue an MBA?

Jennifer Anzaldi — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 13:57:04 +0000

Is it the right time to pursue an MBA? Jennifer Anzaldi Tue, 10/11/2022 - 09:57

Learn more about Mason's MBA program

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If you’re looking to fast track your skills and career potential, an MBA from ��AV may be just what you need. Mason is conveniently located in the Washington, D.C. metro area, and our MBA program is designed to give working professionals intensive and personal learning experiences that can be applied on the job the next day.

But how do you know if you have what it takes to pursue an MBA? Or if an MBA is the right master’s degree for you? Your answers to these questions should help you decide:

Is now the right time? If you’re ready to move your career to the next level, then it’s the right time to pursue an MBA. MBA programs equip you with skills in multiple business disciplines. At Mason, you’ll take classes in accounting, marketing, business strategy, leadership, finance, and information systems and operations management. These skills will help you advance your standing in your current organization or help you to advance to a new one.

Why do I want an MBA? Ask yourself what career or personal goals you hope to achieve by earning an MBA. If your answer involves fast-tracking your leadership, analytical, and decision-making skills then move to the next question.

How much experience do I need to have before pursuing an MBA? Required work experience varies by program. Applicants to Mason’s MBA program must have at least two years of professional work experience, but many typically have 3 to 8 years of professional experience. Many of our students are mid-career and looking to move into team lead or executive roles.

What age should I be to pursue an MBA degree? There is no specific age that is considered “best” for pursuing an MBA. The average age of students in Mason’s MBA program is about 29.

What’s the return on investment? Although the cost of earning an MBA can be high, our program alumni consistently credit their degree for advancing their careers. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), MBA graduates nationwide give their MBA degree credit for career success, including:

90% for increasing earning power
80% for faster career advancement
92% for preparation for leadership positions

The takeaway? If the time is right for you, pursue an MBA. Regardless of the economic climate, demand for educated, well-rounded MBA graduates remains strong. Learn more about Mason's MBA program here.

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Costello College of Business News

MBA Program

Kevin Connor

Should you pursue a Master of Science in Business Analytics or a Graduate Certificate?

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Is it the right time to pursue an MBA?

Learn more about Mason's MBA program

More from Mason's MBA Program

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