Master's in Business Analytics Salary for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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A master’s in business analytics is more than just an advanced degree—it’s one of the most dependable paths to landing high-paying roles in today’s data-driven job market. Many graduates now start their careers earning over $100,000 a year, significantly outpacing the average salary of those with only a bachelor’s degree.

The question, however, is what’s driving those numbers? In this article, we’ll explore the master’s in business analytics salary trends by job title, industry, location, and skill set to help you decide whether earning this degree in 2025 is the right financial move for your future.

Key Things You Should Know About a Master's in Business Analytics Salary

• MSBA graduates average $77,000 per year in base pay, according to the most recent data from Payscale.
• A business analyst with a master’s degree can earn up to 11% more than those with a bachelor’s degree.
• Male MSBA graduates can earn $1,000 to $12,000 more than their female counterparts.

Table of Contents

1. What is the average salary for business analysts with a master’s degree?
2. What are the top-paying job titles for master’s in business analytics graduates for 2025?
3. Is salary growth faster with a master’s in business analytics?
4. Which industries pay the highest for business analytics professionals?
5. Which U.S. states offer the highest salaries in business analytics?
6. Are salaries different for MBA vs MS in business analytics?
7. What skills lead to higher salaries in business analytics?
8. Can further education accelerate your career progression?
9. How do hands-on experiences influence salary progression in business analytics?
10. Can pursuing a doctoral degree accelerate my career progression in business analytics?
11. How will evolving industry trends impact business analytics salaries?
12. Does school reputation impact your starting salary?
13. Is there a gender pay gap in business analytics careers?
14. Does the master’s in business analytics salary justify the tuition cost?
15. Other Things You Should Know About Master’s in Business Analytics Salary

What is the average salary for business analysts with a master’s degree?

Salaries for business analysts with a master's in business analytics can vary widely based on factors such as experience level, location, industry, and the reputation of the academic institution. However, most graduates can expect strong earning potential.

Graduates of top-tier MSBA programs in the United States often report starting base salaries ranging from $100,000 to $125,000. For example, Georgetown University’s December 2023 cohort reported an average base salary of $123,268, with early-career professionals (0–4 years of experience) earning $105,139 and those with over four years of experience averaging $140,188.

While elite programs report high averages, broader data sources provide a fuller picture:

• Salary.com (employer-reported data): Median salaries for professionals with a master’s in analytics range from $129,190 to $137,515, depending on the role.
• Payscale (self-reported data): Reports a more conservative average of around $77,000 for those holding an MS in Business Analysis.

This range reflects several influencing factors:

• Experience level: Entry-level analysts earn less than those with mid-to-senior-level experience.
• Industry: Tech, finance, and consulting typically offer higher compensation than nonprofits or education
• Location: Salaries are often higher in major metro areas like New York, San Francisco, and D.C.

Needless to say, a higher earning potential is one of the benefits of an MBA in HR, business analytics, finance, accounting, and other specializations.

What are the top-paying job titles for master’s in business analytics graduates for 2025?

Here are five of the top-paying job titles commonly pursued by graduates with a master's in business analytics:

• Data Scientist: Data scientists apply advanced analytics, machine learning, and statistical methods to analyze complex data, develop predictive models, and deliver insights that guide business strategy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for data scientists in 2024 was $112,590, highlighting strong demand for their skills across industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare.

• Machine Learning Engineer: Machine learning engineers develop algorithms and AI tools that enhance automation and decision-making processes. Their role requires a combination of analytics expertise and programming skills. Glassdoor reports that their average salary falls between $124,000 and $196,000 per year, underscoring the specialized nature of their work.

• Analytics Manager: Analytics managers lead teams of analysts, oversee data strategies, and communicate insights to executive leadership. Their role combines technical proficiency with leadership and strategic planning. They earn an average salary between $146,000 and $231,000.

• Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Quants use mathematical models to assess financial risk and guide investment strategies, often in banking or hedge funds. Their specialized skill set is highly valued in high-stakes financial environments. Glassdoor indicates that their average salary ranges from $153,000 to $243,000 or more.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Director: BI directors oversee business intelligence tools, data infrastructure, and the generation of insights for business operations. Their leadership role is crucial in turning data into actionable strategies. As of 2025, reports say that their average salary is between $152,000 and $250,000.

Is salary growth faster with a master’s in business analytics?

Salary growth tends to be significantly faster for professionals who pursue a master’s in business analytics, particularly from top-tier programs like MIT Sloan. According to the 2023 MIT MBAn employment report, graduates earned an average base salary of $133,928, with a median of $130,000, and an average signing bonus of $14,134. These figures are notably higher than the typical starting salaries for candidates with only a bachelor’s degree in analytics-related fields, which often fall between $65,000 and $85,000.

The earning potential climbs even higher, with some graduates reporting salaries up to $200,000, particularly in lucrative industries like finance and tech. With 98.4% of graduates entering data science roles, where demand and compensation continue to rise, the degree supports rapid salary growth. While MBA programs online also offer career mobility, an MSBA provides a more direct path to high-paying, technical roles and was the key reason 42.1% of master's in business analytics grads cited growth potential as their top reason for accepting an offer.

Which industries pay the highest for business analytics professionals?

Business analytics professionals with a master’s degree tend to earn the highest salaries in industries where data is central to strategic decision-making—namely, finance, technology, and consulting. In a recent report, graduates entering the finance industry reported the highest median salary at $139,500, closely followed by those in tech and consulting roles.

These sectors not only offer competitive base salaries but also generous signing bonuses and strong long-term growth potential, driven by their reliance on data-driven forecasting, automation, and strategic planning. Similar to graduates of online masters in finance programs, professionals with a background in business analytics are especially valuable in these industries for their ability to apply predictive modeling and machine learning to solve complex business challenges.

Which U.S. states offer the highest salaries in business analytics?

If you're pursuing a career in business analytics and aiming for top-tier compensation, where you work can make a major difference. Several U.S. regions stand out for offering exceptional salaries to analytics professionals. Here’s a breakdown of the highest-paying areas and what’s driving those numbers:

• California – San Francisco Bay Area: The San Francisco Bay Area leads the pack with a mean salary of $147,720 and a median of $141,476. As the tech capital of the world, this region is home to data-hungry giants like Google, Meta, and numerous startups. The demand for analytics expertise is sky-high, and employers are willing to pay a premium for top talent. The high cost of living is a factor, but compensation in this region often reflects that.
• New York – NYC Metro: New York City offers one of the most lucrative markets for business analytics professionals, with a mean salary of $143,583 and a median of $137,000. Known for its dominance in finance, consulting, and media, NYC provides a wealth of opportunities in data-driven decision-making roles. Competitive salaries are typical in this high-energy, high-stakes environment, making it a prime destination for ambitious analysts.
• Washington, D.C. – Metro Area: The D.C. metro region, including parts of Virginia and Maryland, stands out with a median salary of $135,934 and a mean of $130,842. This area offers strong opportunities in government, defense, and healthcare analytics. Employers value professionals who can navigate regulatory and public-sector challenges, and they reward that expertise with solid compensation.

Are salaries different for MBA vs MS in business analytics?

Salaries for MBA graduates and MSBA graduates often differ, and the gap is shaped by a variety of factors, including experience level, career path, and employer expectations. Generally, MBA graduates tend to command higher starting salaries compared to MSBA graduates. According to data from leading business schools:

• MBA graduates from top programs often earn $150,000–$175,000+ in average base salary.
• MSBA graduates from leading institutions average around $130,000–$135,000 in base salary.

This gap reflects the broader managerial and strategic roles MBAs are typically hired into, versus the technical, data-focused roles MSBA grads pursue. Below are the key factors influencing salary differences:

• Work Experience: MBA programs often require 3–5+ years of experience, whereas MBAn candidates usually have less work experience (e.g., MIT MBAn grads average 18 months). Employers pay more for seasoned professionals who can lead teams or manage high-impact projects.
• Role Type: MBAn grads typically enter technical roles like data scientist, data analyst, or machine learning engineer. These roles are well-compensated but are often part of a broader team. MBAs are more likely to enter management, consulting, or strategy roles, which carry higher pay and leadership responsibilities.
• Long-Term Trajectory: MBAn graduates may start at a lower salary but can close the gap over time as they gain experience and move into leadership roles. MBA grads of traditional or online MBA business analytics, meanwhile, are typically hired into mid-level or upper-track leadership roles from the start.
• Industry and Function: Both degrees can lead to jobs in finance, tech, and consulting. However, MBAs often land in higher-paying functions like corporate strategy or investment banking. MBAn grads tend to work in data-heavy functions, which, while lucrative, don’t always match MBA-level compensation.

You may also be wondering about MBA vs MHA salary. You can get your answers by checking out our article on this topic. 

What skills lead to higher salaries in business analytics?

Mastering certain high-impact skills is crucial to maximizing your earning potential in business analytics. These skills improve your performance and make you more attractive to top employers, especially in tech, finance, and consulting. Here are five of the most lucrative skills in the field:

• SQL and Data Engineering Tools: A Strong command of SQL, Python, and data pipeline tools (e.g., Airflow, Spark) is essential for working with large datasets. Professionals who can extract, clean, and structure data efficiently are invaluable to organizations. This backend capability often leads to higher compensation due to its technical complexity and business impact. Check out the difference between master of science and master of engineering here.
• Cloud Platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP): Experience with cloud computing services—especially Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP)—can significantly boost your salary. As businesses scale their data infrastructure, analytics professionals with cloud skills are needed to deploy models and manage data in distributed environments.
• Business Intelligence and Data Visualization: Tools like Tableau, Power BI, and Looker help translate complex data into actionable insights. Analysts who can build dashboards and tell compelling data stories often play a key role in decision-making. Combining technical visualization skills with business acumen typically leads to higher-paying roles.
• Strategic Thinking and Communication: Beyond technical prowess, professionals who can think strategically and communicate insights effectively are highly valued. Employers reward those who can align analytics with business goals, influence executives, and drive measurable impact. This “soft” skillset is especially important for roles that blend analytics with leadership or consulting.
• Machine Learning and AI: Proficiency in machine learning and artificial intelligence is among the most in-demand skills today—not only for graduates of traditional or online masters in AI programs but also for those in business analytics. Employers highly value professionals who can develop predictive models, automate decisions, and apply algorithms to solve complex business problems. These capabilities are especially prized in tech firms and startups, where innovation fuels competitive, high-paying roles. However, a 2024 survey by Cengage Group revealed that most recent college graduates still lack familiarity with generative AI tools and skills, highlighting a growing gap between employer needs and graduate readiness.

Can further education accelerate your career progression?

Advanced academic qualifications can bridge the gap between technical expertise and strategic leadership. Prospective leaders in business analytics might consider pursuing supplementary programs that focus on executive decision-making, organizational behavior, and advanced management techniques. For professionals aiming to ascend to C-level roles, engaging in further studies—such as an online leadership doctorate program—can provide crucial insights and a competitive edge in today’s dynamic business landscape.

How do hands-on experiences influence salary progression in business analytics?

Graduates who leverage internships, real-world projects, and cooperative education programs often receive higher starting salaries, as these experiences demonstrate the practical application of technical skills. Employers increasingly value candidates who have directly engaged in solving business challenges, as this hands-on background translates into immediate contributions on the job. Such practical expertise, when combined with advanced data analysis competencies, accelerates career progression and distinguishes professionals in competitive markets. Moreover, supplementing technical training with improved communication skills—such as by obtaining a cheapest online English degree—further enhances the ability to articulate complex insights, an essential factor for leadership roles and strategy development.

Can pursuing a doctoral degree accelerate my career progression in business analytics?

Pursuing doctoral education can open pathways to roles that extend beyond traditional analytical positions, offering distinct advantages in research, policy formulation, and academic leadership. A focused doctoral program equips professionals with advanced research methodologies and a deep analytical framework that can inform strategic decision-making at higher organizational levels. Enhanced credibility and the potential for specialized consulting roles are additional benefits, particularly for those aiming to influence industry standards and drive innovative practices. For candidates interested in broadening their academic portfolio, exploring options like the cheapest online EdD programs can provide a cost-effective route to further credentials without compromising professional development.

How will evolving industry trends impact business analytics salaries?

Emerging technologies and shifting market demands are reshaping both job functions and compensation structures in business analytics. Advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation are altering traditional analytical roles, prompting employers to value continuous learning and adaptability. Professionals who update their skill set with new analytical tools and methodologies position themselves for strategic roles that command higher salaries. In addition, integrating advanced credentials—such as those offered through 2 year Ed D programs online—can further enhance expertise and marketability in a competitive, evolving landscape.

Does school reputation impact your starting salary?

School reputation can significantly impact your starting salary in business analytics. Graduates from top-tier institutions like MIT, Stanford, or the University of Chicago often receive higher initial offers due to the prestige of their programs, strong alumni networks, and close ties to top employers. Recruiters frequently prioritize candidates from highly ranked programs because these schools are known for producing well-prepared, competitive talent—including those in specialized tracks like accelerated MBA programs, which quickly prepare students for leadership roles in high-paying industries.

However, reputation alone doesn’t guarantee a higher salary. Employers also consider skills, work experience, internships, and how well a candidate fits the specific role. While a strong school brand can open doors, long-term success still depends on your ability to demonstrate value. Graduates from lesser-known programs who build expertise and gain hands-on experience can also compete for top-tier positions and compensation.

Is there a gender pay gap in business analytics careers?

There is evidence of a gender pay gap in business analytics careers, even among professionals with the same academic credentials. Despite growing awareness and efforts to close the gap, men with a master's degree in business analytics can earn $1,000 to $12,000 more per year than their female counterparts, based on the data provided by Payscale. This discrepancy persists across industries and job functions, and it reflects broader trends in compensation inequality that affect many STEM-related fields.

Several factors contribute to this gap, including differences in negotiation, types of roles pursued, and unconscious bias in hiring and compensation decisions. While women are increasingly entering analytics programs and excelling in technical roles, they are often underrepresented in the highest-paying positions, such as leadership roles, product strategy, and finance analytics. Closing the gender pay gap will require not only equitable pay policies but also greater transparency, mentorship opportunities, and support for women to advance into top-paying positions.

Want to know the difference between masters in accounting and CPA? Check out our previous article on the topic.

Does the master’s in business analytics salary justify the tuition cost?

A master's in business analytics can offer a strong return on investment, especially when compared to the average tuition costs. As of 2024, the average cost of a master’s degree is $51,740 at a public school and $62,550 at a private for-profit institution. Meanwhile, graduates from top master's in business analytics programs report average starting salaries between $100,000 and $135,000, with some earning even more depending on industry and location.

Given that many master's in business analytics graduates can potentially recoup their tuition costs within the first year or two of employment, the degree often justifies its cost, particularly for students entering high-demand fields like tech, finance, or consulting. For those looking to advance further into executive leadership or academic roles, online DBA programs can be a logical next step after a master's in business analytics, offering an opportunity to deepen expertise and boost long-term earning potential. Overall, the master's in business analytics remains one of the more financially rewarding graduate degrees for early-career professionals.

What Do Graduates Say About Their Master's in Business Analytics Salary

• Earning my master’s in business analytics led to a 40% salary increase within two years and opened doors to leadership roles I hadn’t imagined. I finally feel like my work is valued and financially rewarding. Gavin
• Transitioning from marketing to analytics was seamless thanks to my graduate training, and my new role pays nearly six figures with performance bonuses. I’m proud to have found a career that blends my analytical mind with real financial stability. Stella
• The data-driven decisions I now make directly impact my company’s revenue, and that’s reflected in my paycheck and rapid promotions. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see both my skills and income grow side by side. Adrienne

Key Findings

• Business analysts with a master’s degree earn up to 11% more than those with only a bachelor’s.
• Finance offers the highest median salary for MSBA graduates at $139,500 per year.
• Master of business analytics graduates earn the most in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a median salary of $141,476.
• Over 54% of male MSBA graduates earn more than their female peers.
• Many master's in business analytics graduates take jobs in data science.

Other Things You Should Know About Master’s in Business Analytics Salary

Is a business analytics master's worth it?

Yes, a master’s in business analytics is often worth the investment, particularly for those seeking high-paying, data-driven roles in industries like tech, finance, and consulting. The degree offers a fast-track to specialized careers in data science and decision analytics, with average starting salaries frequently exceeding $100,000. Given the growing demand for analytics talent, many graduates see a strong return on their tuition within just a couple of years. Its focused curriculum also makes it ideal for individuals who want to build technical expertise without the broader business emphasis of an MBA.

Is a master's in business analytics the same as an MBA?

No, a master’s in business analytics is not the same as an MBA. While both are graduate business degrees, an MS in Business Analytics, for example, is highly technical and centers on data analysis, statistical modeling, and machine learning. An MBA provides a broader business education, covering areas like finance, marketing, leadership, and strategy, often designed for future managers or executives. Students interested in deep data skills and analytics-driven decision-making will benefit more from an MSBA, while those targeting leadership roles across various business functions may prefer an MBA.

Is business analytics a good career?

Yes, business analytics is an excellent career choice, especially for those who enjoy using data to solve real-world problems. It offers strong job growth, high earning potential, and opportunities across nearly every industry. Business analysts and data scientists are essential for driving strategic decisions, and their skills are in increasing demand as companies become more data-focused. The career also allows for flexibility and advancement into roles in management, data science, or product strategy over time.

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