Introduction
The USC Marshall MSBA is a data science STEM degree that focuses on business. The degree is based on pillars such as computer science, statistics, machine learning, optimization, and business strategy. It is one of the country’s oldest MSBA programs and one of the best in the world.
The USC Business Analytics emphasizes project-based learning in the classroom, which means that students better understand business analytics by actively exploring real-world business difficulties and problems.
These projects are being carried out in partnership with industry partners of USC and cover a wide range of business issues. These business issues include finance, operations, marketing, management, supply chain, and human resource issues.
| Program length | 16 months |
| Tuition Fees MSBA 2024 |
33-unit program ($2,244 per unit) |
| Program deadline MSBA 2026 |
Round 1: November 15, 2023 Round 2: January 15, 2024 Round 3: March 15, 2024 Round 4: April 15, 2024 |
| Intakes | 4 |
| Application fees | $155 |
Class Profile
At USC Marshall's MSBA program, students come from various backgrounds, creating a vibrant and diverse community. Whether you have a business, technical, or liberal arts background, you'll find peers who share your passion for data analytics. Together, we start on a journey to tackle real-world challenges in this exciting field.
| Average GMAT | 730 |
| Average GRE | 330 |
| Average GPA | 7 |
| Average work experience | 1 year |
| Average age | 26 |
| Pre-MSBA industry MSBA 2023 |
Analytics Consulting Finance Marketing |
| Pre-MSBA location | NA |
| Class size MSBA 2023 |
NA |
| Women MSBA 2025 |
NA |
| Country Represented MSBA 2025 |
NA |
USC Marshall MSBA Rankings
Discover why USC Marshall's MSBA program stands out in business analytics education through its impressive rankings. Ranked 9th in the QS Business Master's Rankings 2023 for Business Analytics and securing the 4th position according to mastersofbusinessanalytics.com in 2023, USC Marshall continues to earn recognition for its outstanding curriculum, faculty expertise, and student outcomes.
These rankings validate the program's dedication to providing students with a top-tier education and preparing them for successful careers in the dynamic field of business analytics.
| Rankings | Position |
| QS Business Master’s Rankings 2023: Business Analytics | 9 |
| mastersofbusinessanalytics.com 2023 | 4 |
Eligibility & Requirements for USC Marshall MSBA
It's vital to grasp the eligibility and requirements. For those considering a Progressive Degree Program (PDP), ensure you're committed to one program, as dual enrollments aren't permitted. Additionally, international students aiming for a PDP should note restrictions on Optional Practical Training (OPT) during the summer between completing their bachelor's degree and starting the master's program. Understanding these prerequisites will set you on the right path for your MSBA aspirations.
| Requirements | Details |
| Completed online application form | The program office is only able to communicate admissions decisions to the email address used at time of application. |
| Test scores needed | -TOEFL: Total 100; each band 20 -IELTS: Overall 7; each band 6 -Have at least a 3.0 cumulative USC GPA |
| Standardized requirements by school | - STARS report - Professional Resume |
You can refer to this USC Marshall official page to learn more on: Applying To USC Marshall
Program & Curriculum of USC Marshall MSBA
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) degree requires 33 units, taken in 3 semesters (with the flexibility of extending to 4 semesters): Fall, Spring, and Fall. There are 21 units of required coursework, including an internship opportunity, plus 12 units of coursework chosen from a list of electives.
USC MSBA's Three Pillars: Computer Science; Statistics, Machine Learning, Optimization; and Business Strategy.
1. First Semester (Fall)
GSBA 545: Data Driven Decision Making (1.5 units)
DSO 545: Statistical Computing and Data Visualization (3 units)
DSO 570: The Analytics Edge: Data, Models, and Effective Decisions (3 units)
DSO 552: SQL Databases for Business Analysts (1.5 units)
GSBA 542: Communication for Management (1.5 units)
2. Second Semester (Spring)
DSO 510: Business Analytics (1.5 units)
DSO 530: Applied Modern Statistical Learning Methods (3 units)
DSO 553: NoSQL Databases in Big Data (1.5 units)
Elective (3 units)
Elective (1.5 units)
3. Summer
DSO 595: Internship in Data Sciences or Operations (0-1.5 units)
4. Third Semester (Fall)
DSO 573*: Data Analytics Driven Dynamic Strategy & Execution (3 units)
Elective (3 units)
Elective (3 units)
Elective (1.5-3 units)
Electives
Here are the Electives courses for the program:
|
Programming |
Data Cleaning, Data Wrangling, Data Visualization, Web Scraping, Database Management, Python (Main Language of Study), R, SQL, NoSQL |
| Statistics + Machine Learning | Probability Distributions, Inferential Statistics, Supervised Learning Methods |
| Business Strategy | Marketing Analytics, Fraud Analytics, Operations Analytics, Game Analytics, Time-Series Analytics, Healthcare Analytics, Supply Chain Analytics |
Fees, Financing & Scholarships at USC Marshall MSBA
Tuition is calculated per unit based on the unit price of the given academic year. Tuition is subject to increase each academic year. Please keep in mind this information relates only to the listed academic year.
Note: The MSBA program is a 33-unit program of Business Graduate (500 level and above) Coursework.
| Tuition fee for the class 2024 | 33-unit program ($2,244 per unit) |
| Application Fees | $155 |
Scholarships for USC Marshall MSBA applicants
The MSBA program offers a limited amount of scholarships to admitted students. U.S. citizens and international students are eligible. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for priority scholarship consideration. Candidates will be considered holistically and assessed based on merit, diversity, and need. Students who want to be considered for a scholarship must answer an additional essay question within the application for admission. There is no separate application for the scholarship.
Employment Upon Graduation
Securing employment post-graduation is a key consideration for students pursuing the USC Marshall MSBA. With the program's emphasis on developing analytical skills and industry-specific knowledge, graduates are well-equipped to navigate the job market. USC Marshall's extensive network of corporate connections and career resources further enhances opportunities for employment upon graduation.
From data analyst roles to leadership positions in top organizations, the MSBA program prepares students for a wide range of career paths in the dynamic field of masters in business analytics.
| Average salary MSBA 2024 |
$110,360 |
| Offer accepted upon three months of graduation | NA |
| Offer received upon three months of graduation | NA |
| Reporting rate | 97.8% |
| Post-program job locations | Beaverton - OR Fort Worth - TX Los Angeles - CA San Jose - CA Beijing - China Fremont - CA |
| Post MSBA industries MSBA 2022 |
NA |
Know more at: Career Impact | USC Marshall
USC Marshall MSBA Application: Essays & Interview
Preparing for the USC Marshall MSBA application process involves careful consideration of essay prompts and interview preparations. The essays provide applicants with an opportunity to showcase their skills, experiences, and motivations for pursuing the MSBA program.
Additionally, the interview stage allows candidates to engage with faculty and admissions personnel, further demonstrating their suitability for the program. Understanding the expectations for essays and interviews is essential for prospective students aiming to secure admission to the USC Marshall MSBA program.
Essays
The USC Marshall MSBA application journey entails thoughtful consideration of the essay requirements, which serve as a platform for applicants to articulate their unique experiences, aspirations, and motivations.
Essay 1
Describe your career aspirations. What roles, companies, industries, and regions do you see yourself working in and how do you see Marshall’s MSBA program helping you achieve your goal? (250 words maximum).
Essay 2
Give us an example of a skill that you have acquired through self-learning, and explain the process in which you taught yourself the skill. (250 words maximum)
Essay 3
If there is something you would like us to know about you personally or professionally that hasn’t already been mentioned, feel free to do so here. (Optional, 250 words maximum)
Interview Questions
Navigating the interview process is a crucial step in the USC Marshall MSBA application journey. Understanding the types of questions commonly asked can help applicants prepare effectively and showcase their qualifications and fit for the program.
Who attends the USC Marshall MSBA program:
- Please introduce yourself.
- Why do you want to opt for the MSBA program?
- What are your future plans?
- Why do you want to work at this particular company? What do you know about this role?
- What’s your plan B in case your career plans don’t work out?
- What are your major strengths and weaknesses?
- What are you passionate about? Give me some examples of how you have shown it
- What was your role at your previous job/ Internship?
- Tell me about a recent news affair that has caught your attention.
Why USC Marshall is Unique?
From cutting-edge research initiatives to vibrant campus life, USC Marshall stands out as a premier institution in business education. With a diverse student body, renowned faculty, and a strong network of alumni, USC Marshall fosters an environment where creativity, collaboration, and leadership thrive.
- Real-World Learning: With a history spanning over 100 years, USC Marshall has established strong connections with leading companies and business leaders globally, providing students with unparalleled opportunities across various industries.
- Human Leadership: In response to the evolving business landscape, USC Marshall focuses on training 21st-century leaders who can navigate technological advancements while addressing the social implications, preparing them to thrive in a dynamic environment.
- Tech Fluency: USC Marshall is committed to equipping future business leaders with the necessary skills to leverage technological innovations effectively, ensuring they can capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate societal changes.
- Diversity, Equity, + Inclusion: The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at USC Marshall fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where every member of the community is valued, empowered, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Useful Links
| Admission Process | Admission in USC Marshall MSBA |
| Placement | Employment Report |
| USC Marshall Alumni | Continue your journey with USC Marshall |
| Contact | USC Marshall MSBA ugcareers@marshall.usc.edu (213) 740-5705 |
Conclusion
The USC Marshall MSBA program is a STEM degree in data science with a focus on business. One of the nation’s oldest MSBA colleges in USA, it has continuously been rated as one of the best in the world. The USC MSBA curriculum places a strong emphasis on project-based learning in the classroom, allowing our students to actively explore business challenges and problems from the real world to gain a deeper understanding of business analytics.
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