- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university
- Open to graduates regardless of major who have a quantitative foundation with an interest in building a career in analytics
- Successful completion of coursework in statistics and one other quantitative course is required
Master of Science in Business Analytics
#2 Program in the U.S. (TechGuide, 2026) STEM Certified – OPT Extension Eligible Curriculum Embedded with Applied AI NEW: Sports Analytics Concentration 92% Employment (Class of 2025)
NEW: Sports Analytics Concentration
The Wake Forest MSBA Program introduces a new Sports Analytics Concentration, which includes new coursework and an optional additional summer semester opportunity to learn advanced sports analytics and data engineering, and be embedded as consultants to a Division I, Power Four sports team.
MSBA Program Summary
Learn how to become a problem solver who takes data from insight to impact, and adds value to any organization from day one. For a closer look at how a Wake Forest MSBA can help you launch your career, please schedule a consult.
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) Student Day in the Life
Follow Christine Turnbull through a day in the Wake Forest MS in Business Analytics program as she tackles hands-on projects, learns alongside expert faculty, enjoys the vibrant Wake Forest campus, and collaborates with classmates to solve real-world business challenges.
MSBA Career Outcomes
Wake Forest MSBA graduates are making a difference at some of the world's top companies. Here are a few of their stories.
Putting Teaching Into Practice
Dawud Crayton Jr., MSBA Graduate Sr Financial Analyst, Collective Insights
This program exposes you to new tools, software, technology, and understandings but also gives you every opportunity to practice these skills. Witnessing my own educational growth and personal development throughout this program has been my favorite part.
A Community for All
Lilly Mitchell, MSBA Graduate Senior Data Scientist, Ally
I chose Wake Forest to further grow my technical skills and gain applicable business knowledge. Wake offered incredible connections while also focusing on the student experience. The immense sense of community made the transition to graduate school seamless.
Building a Lifelong Network
Jiayi Li, MSBA Graduate Knowledge Analyst, McKinsey & Company
Students at Wake Forest are bonded to the school. There are lots of activities every week that make the program fun and engaging and provide opportunities to network.
Standing Out From the Competition
Donovan Boyle, MSBA Graduate Decision Analytics Associate Consultant, ZS Associates
I pursued the MSBA to further my analytical skills in a business setting and to widen the gap between my abilities and the general business applicant. The practicum made me understand the importance of a cohesive team and practice communicating to a well-respected client. This allowed me to be picky with future employers and land a great starting role.
Learning Today to Succeed Tomorrow
Yihao Zhou, MSBA Graduate Private Investor, FCS Capital Limited
I chose to pursue an MSBA degree because big data is our future. The Wake program offers a great combination of technical savviness and business acumen — essential skills in the business world. Our professors genuinely care about our success and the program’s career resources and support have been very helpful.
Inside the MSBA Experience
The MSBA program has impacted the completion of my personal and professional goals by making me more confident as a student and as a professional. The practicum project gives you hands-on experience working in a professional environment with real companies and organizations that really need help, and then the work ethic and the academic rigor of the program also prepares you for real world situations where you might need to use technical and analytical skills.
Student
Fatima Drammeh
The MSBA program has impacted the completion of my personal and professional goals by making me more confident as a student and as a professional. The practicum project gives you hands-on experience working in a professional environment with real companies and organizations that really need help, and then the work ethic that you expected and the academic rigor of the program also prepares you again for real world situations where you might need to use these technical and analytical skills.
Student
Alli Ajagbe
Having people that are very welcoming, both in class and outside of class, I think that's really important across any social setting that you find yourself in. The level of success that I've been able to attain in terms of how I've been able to settle well into the new community and actually be able to look at my cohort and say, these are people that I really see beyond this program, that's not entirely what I've been able to do as a person, socially, but also, I think it's a lot of credit to the people in the cohort itself.
Student
Christina Tran
I'm a Double Deac, so I studied for my Bachelor's of Science in Computer Science before coming into this program, and I was really fortunate to have really helpful teachers and professors that helped me along the way and realized that I could use my background in computer science for analytics, and they helped me find this program and allowed me to stay in Winston for another year to pursue my master's.
MSBA Average Class Profile
Class statistics averaged over the most recent three cohorts
104
Total Students
35%
Female
22%
Underrepresented Groups
685
Average GMAT
53
Colleges/Universities Represented
21
Majors Represented
3.5
Average GPA
320
Average GRE
MSBA Ambassadors
Wake Forest MSBA Ambassadors are current students who are available and eager to answer any questions you might have. Our Ambassadors know the MSBA program and the path to get there better than anyone, so they can give you the first-hand student perspective you need. We encourage you to reach out any of the ambassadors listed below via email regarding questions about the program, application process, career resources, life at Wake Forest, living in Winston-Salem, or any other questions you may have.
Owen Edwards
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose the MSBA program because I came for a campus tour and immediately wanted to be part of the culture and environment. Everyone was very friendly, and I felt I could thrive in the positive and collaborative environment I was experiencing.
Addison Paradise
Email
City: Charlotte, NC
Undergraduate School:
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Major/Minor:
Business Analytics, Minor: International Business
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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Originally I knew I wanted to be closer to home as I was at an out of state undergraduate school. I majored in Business Analytics and I knew Wake has one of the best programs so I was excited to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone.
Emily Bradley
Email
City: Poquoson, VA
Undergraduate School:
Washington and Lee University
Major/Minor:
Major: Chemistry; Minor: Data Science
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I chose the Master of Science in Business Analytics program because I wanted to build a business foundation that would complement my existing skill set. My chemistry major gave me a background in complex problem-solving and scientific rigor, while my data science minor gave me the analytical skills to work with data. This program is the next step in connecting those two skill sets in a way that's both meaningful and marketable.
Leah Fisher
Email
City: Winston-Salem, NC
Undergraduate School:
UNC Chapel Hill
Major/Minor:
Economics and Entrepreneurship
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I wanted to develop technical and analytical skills that I didn't focus on during my undergraduate experience. I had heard many great things about the MSBA program and wanted to experience that. Also, given the current job market, it was also a move out of necessity but also desire to continue to learn and develop my personal and career goals!
Adan Urizar
Email
City: Rome, GA
Undergraduate School:
Georgia Highlands College
Major/Minor:
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
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I would like to further improve my analytical skills and use data to describe problems.
Jordan Riggs
Email
City: Hollywood, MD
Undergraduate School:
NC A&T State University
Major/Minor:
Electrical Engineering
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I chose the MSBA program because of how welcoming Janasi Rawlings to what wake was and the opportunities it could bring.
Kirstin Palasz
Email
City: Winnetka, IL
Undergraduate School:
Wake Forest University
Major/Minor:
Business and Enterprise Management / Psychology
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My decision to pursue the MSBA grew directly out of my own experience at Wake Forest. I loved my time here as an undergraduate, so when I started thinking about my next step, continuing where I already believed in felt natural. I knew how amazing the resources, faculty, and community were at Wake. What made the choice clear, though, was the job search. As I applied for the roles I was most excited about, I kept running into the same gap: I had the drive and the business foundation, but not yet the technical, data-driven skills those positions called for. The MSBA was the answer to that gap. I knew the program would give me a real edge, building the analytical and technical skills employers are looking for while deepening the business perspective I developed as an undergraduate. Choosing to stay at Wake Forest meant investing in a community I trust to prepare me for exactly the kind of career I want to build.
Levi Whitener
Email
City: Clemmons, NC
Undergraduate School:
NC State University
Major/Minor:
Statistics; Business Administration/Computer Programming
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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With my parents working at the university and my siblings attending, I grew up around the campus culture and developed an early appreciation for the community. Joining the MSBA program felt like a natural continuation of that connection and fulfilling a bit of family tradition, but on my own terms as a graduate student. Beyond the personal ties, the decision came down to the caliber of the program itself. The Wake Forest MSBA offers a curriculum that blends analytics with business application, all supported by a tight-knit faculty and strong career outcomes.
Esteban Cifuentes Coyoy
Email
City: Sterling, VA
Undergraduate School:
Wake Forest University
Major/Minor:
Engineering - Concentration in Civil & Environmental
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Coming from a STEM background, I thought that MSBA would be the perfect extension from building on my technical skills and a good gateway into business. I loved my time at WFU during undergrad so staying here for grad school was a natural next step.
Brinda Laddha
Email
India
Undergraduate School:
Wake Forest University
Major/Minor:
Statistics with a Marketing minor
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I want to break into consulting
Caroline Wales
Email
City: Marblehead, MA
Major/Minor:
Major: Computer Science; Minor: Women's, Gender, & Sexuality Studies minor
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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Coming out of undergrad, I knew traditional CS paths like software engineering or cybersecurity weren't right for me. At the same time, I've always been fascinated by data. The MSBA program at Wake Forest felt like a natural next step, building on the technical foundation I already had while shifting toward the side of data that interested me most.
MSBA Events
Consider joining us for our next MSBA event
Nov
10
@4:00 PM
First Look Series: Accelerated Master’s Programs at Wake Forest School of Business
Explore our accelerated masters programs in Accountancy, Business Analytics, and Management. Hear what makes the Wake Forest experience different and how an accelerated masters can help you take your next step. Whether youre just starting to explore your options or already know which program interests you, First Look will give you a clearer picture of: The opportunities available to youThe Wake Forest experienceYour next steps
Nov
13
@12:00 PM
School of Business AI Workshop: AI Once, Automate Forever
AI Once, Automate Forever Using AI to Build Repeatable Business Solutions Wake Forest School of Business faculty share how they're using AI todaypractical skills and workflows that go beyond prompting, which you can apply the next day! "AI Once, Automate Forever" will be led by Associate Teaching Professor Dr. Kyre Lahtinen. This workshop will be delivered in two formats: in-person and virtual. For those who prefer to attend in-person, the workshop will be held on the WFU Reynolda campus in Farrell Hall (room 151). For those who prefer virtual delivery, a Zoom link will be emailed the day prior to the workshop. You must select which format you prefer when registering. All workshops will be recorded and shared with registrants. No AI background is necessary to attend. Open to the WFU community and free to the public. Registration is required. You are welcome to register one guest. We hope you can join us! Additional workshops will be offered in this series. Check the School of Business calendar for details.
Nov
22
@2:00 PM
Fall Faculty and Guest Artist Dance Concert
The Fall Faculty & Guest Artist Concert will feature modern, jazz, contemporary and classical ballet choreography by our dance faculty and renowned guest choreographers, under the direction of Nina Lucas Rice. This fall faculty choreographers include Chris Martin, Tina Yarborough Liggins, Christina Soriano, Nina Lucas Rice, Chelsea Hilding, Sam Shapiro, and Kara Wilkes. Past guest artists have included: Heather Malloy artistic director of Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance; Broadway dancers Matthew Loehr and Mark Price to name a few. Tickets available starting November 10: https://theatre.wfu.edu/box-office/ticket-policy/
Nov
30
@7:00 PM
Lighting of the Quad
Join us for one of Wake Forests most cherished traditions, Lighting of the Quad! Gather on Hearn Plaza on Monday, November 30th, starting at 7:00 PM as we celebrate the holiday season with lights, music, and community spirit. Watch as the Quad glows with hundreds of lights, enjoy seasonal refreshments, and share in the joy of this beloved campus tradition with fellow Deacs.
Dec
01
@6:00 PM
School of Business Holiday Happy Hour - Charlotte
Let's Gather and Share in the Holiday Cheer! Bring your holiday cheer! The School of Business is hosting a special Holiday Happy Hour at the Pearl, the new home for the WFU Charlotte Center. Reconnect with fellow local alumni, share in the festive spirit, and make new connections over casual conversation. Your $10 registration fee includes two drink tickets (beer/wine) and appetizers. Guests are welcome, however registration is required. We encourage everyone to dress in their favorite festive holiday attire.
Dec
02
@5:00 PM
Center for Global Programs and Studies Night Market
The annual Night Market is the signature event of International Education Week (IEW), serving as a reminder that campuses play a special part in shaping the awareness of our role in global living. The Wake Forest community is encouraged to explore the value of education abroad, the richness that is brought into our classrooms and departments by international faculty, staff and students, and the benefits derived from all international programs on campus. Join us on Manchester Plaza for food, music, games, vendors and a relaxing time with friends.
Articles
Review articles that highlight industry trends and career paths in Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA).
What Is Business Analytics? Definition, Examples, Types, and Careers in the AI Era
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MSBA Careers
Review articles that highlight career paths in Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA).
"One of the Most Beautiful Campuses in the World"
Wake Forest's stunning Georgian architecture and lush, impeccably maintained grounds offer both grandeur and tranquility, making the campus not just a setting for academic pursuit, but also a celebrated destination that embodies classic collegiate charm and natural beauty.
“With its stately Georgian architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens, Wake Forest’s campus embodies classic Southern charm.”
The 64 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
“Wake Forest blends the built and natural worlds with steeples and domed roofs peeking out above the ground’s lush greenery and treelines.”
Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
“The Georgian-style buildings, clad in Old Virginia Brick with limestone details and decorative wrought iron, create a unified, timeless aesthetic.”
The 45 Most Beautiful College Campuses In The South
“The most recognizable campus building is the Wait Chapel, which is named after the university's founder Samuel Wait.”
25 of the Most Beautiful College Campuses In the South
“Ranked the most beautiful college campus in NC, going up against stunning school's like Duke and UNC Chapel Hill.”
The Most Beautiful Universities in the World
“Choosing a college isn’t only about academics or cost, it’s also about finding the place you’ll call home for the next few years.”
This Is the Most Beautiful College Campus in the U.S.
Winston-Salem, NC
The "City of Arts and Innovation" offers an affordable, vibrant lifestyle with a thriving arts scene, outdoor activities, and safe walkable neighborhoods.
Meet Your MSBA Team
If you have any questions regarding the enrollment process, student life, faculty, curriculum or career resources, please schedule a consult. We look forward to helping you!
Dr. Aric LaBarr
Program Director (PD) for Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) Program; Teaching Professor
Eric Haddleton
Associate Director, Enrollment Management Recruiting
Cherie Fu
Associate Director, MSBA Integrative Student Services and International Student Support Specialist
Araceli Perez-Ramos (Sally)
Associate Director, Market Readiness & Employment
AACSB International
The School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).
