Business Analytics

The increase in the volume, variety, and velocity of data creates opportunities for businesses to improve decision making and develop new data driven products and services. The MSc Business Analytics has been developed to meet the demand for qualified professionals, who possess the necessary expertise to realise end-to-end business analytics solutions and are equipped to utilise data for business decision-making purposes.



The programme is built around the three core areas needed to succeed in analytics: business knowledge, statistics, and computing. This includes modules focusing on the application of analytics in core business functions such as marketing and human resources, as well as modules focusing on developing and applying technical skills such as advanced analytics and machine learning, text mining, data management, and data driven decision making.



In total, students will study eight modules in addition to pre-course training and a final dissertation project. The dissertation is a key highlight of the programme, as it provides students with the opportunity to undertake an independent project where they will create a technical business analytics solution incorporating all elements of the programme.



The programme will include an induction, where pre-course training in key statistics and computer skills will ensure students from a range of backgrounds have the necessary skills to undertake the course.

Core Modules

Statistics for Business (15 credits)

Data Management (15 credits)

Advanced Analytics & Machine Learning (15 credits)

Data Driven Decision Making (15 credits)

Artificial Intelligence in Business and Society (15 credits)

Dissertation MSc Business Analytics (60 credits)

Marketing Analytics (15 credits)

Data Mining (15 credits)

MSc Business Analytics Dissertation Portfolio (60 credits)

Human Resources Analytics BA (15 credits)

Entrance requirements

Graduate

Normally a 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in any discipline to include one module in a quantitative area* or quantitative dissertation. Relevant employment experience in a quantitative area may be considered in lieu of a module in a quantitative area and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.



*This could be a course or module in a broad range of quantitative areas such as Finance, Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Accounting, Engineering or Physics. Equivalent content from across multiple modules will also be considered.



International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region at https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/your-country/



English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).



International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.



For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.



If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 14th August 2026 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.



Please note: international applicants will be required to pay a deposit to secure a place on this course.

1 year (Full Time)

Entry Year: Academic Year 2026/27

Career Prospects

Introduction

The programme will appeal to students who intend to pursue a career in a business analytics related field, such as data science, business intelligence, consultancy, informatics, or decision intelligence.



For further opportunities to enhance your studies and career prospects please see the school website.

https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/queens-business-school/student-opportunities/



Employment after the Course

Graduates from this programme have secured roles with employers such as KPMG, PwC, EY, Tata Consulting, Citi, FD Technologies, Alibaba Group, Severn Trent. Typical roles include data analyst, data scientist, business analyst, consultant.

https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/