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Master of Science in Business Analytics

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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 .

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  • 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

  • Hone advanced quantitative capabilities and technical skills, including Python, Tableau, SQL, all enhanced through AI
  • Learn to apply analytics across disciplines like finance, marketing, operations, and human resources
  • Innovative courses like Machine Learning, Data Driven Storytelling, and Marketing Analytics
  • Manage Experiential Learning Projects with corporations and in-class use of authentic retail data from our exclusive Center for Analytics Impact corporate partnerships
  • Additional semester option for Business Consulting with AI Enhanced Analytics concentration, providing AI expertise and advanced technical skills

  • All qualified candidates are assessed for merit and need-based scholarships
  • No separate scholarship application necessary
  • Qualified applications submitted earlier receive admission and scholarship award priority

This program benefit allows Wake Forest MSBA graduates to return for their MBA and receive course credit that substantially shortens their time in the MBA program.
  • Gain a head start on earning a Wake Forest MBA
  • Receive credit for MSBA program courses that are substantially equivalent to MBA coursework

Domestic Applicants (1)
Application Available
Aug. 1
Early App Deadline (nonbinding)
Nov. 1
Final Application Deadline
June 1
Enrollment Begins
July 2025
  1. Domestic applicants include U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents.
International Applicants (1)
Application Available
Aug. 1
Early App Deadline (nonbinding)
Nov. 1
Final App Deadline (outside US)
April 1
Final App Deadline (in US)
May 1
Enrollment Begins
July 2025
  1. International students currently living outside the U.S. must meet the April 1 application deadline. International students currently in the U.S. on an F-1 visa can meet the extended application deadline of May 1 if they require only a SEVIS transfer to extend their visa.

  • Admissions decisions made on a rolling basis
  • No separate scholarship application
  • Decision notifications made in three to four weeks
  • Qualified applications submitted earlier receive admission and scholarship award priority

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.

MSBA Average Class Profile

Class statistics averaged over the most recent three cohorts

92

Total Students

37%

Female

23%

Underrepresented Groups

643

Average GMAT

57

Colleges/Universities Represented

31

Majors Represented

309

Average GRE

MSBA Ambassadors

Wake Forest MSBA program ambassadors are current students who are available and eager to answer any questions you might have. They know the program and the path to get there better than anyone, so they can give you the first-hand student perspective you need. Reach out anyone listed below regarding questions about the program, application process, career resources, life at Wake Forest, living in Winston-Salem, or any other questions you may have.

A picture of Khushi.

Khushi Arya

Email
City: New Delhi, India
India
Undergraduate School: Wake Forest University
Major/Minor: Economics / Communication
Why Wake?
I chose the MSBA program because I was interested in developing technical skills which seemed like the missing piece in my resume. Data is the future and analyzing it is a skill almost every employer is looking for. I wasn’t interested in hardcore data science so business analytics was the perfect fit given my background in and passion for economics. I have a lot of love for Wake and the support it offers in terms of networking, small class sizes, and campus resources.
A picture of Tianyi.

Tianyi “Ty” Chen

Email
City: Guangzhou, China
China
Undergraduate School: University of California, San Diego
Major/Minor: Cognitive Science
Why Wake?
The most impactful part of my program experience has been the hands-on projects that simulate real-world challenges, such as assigning us to our practicum teams. This experience has enriched my perspective and honed my problem-solving skills.
A picture of Bryce.

Bryce Drynan

Email
City: Stamford, CT
Undergraduate School: Southern Connecticut State University
Major/Minor: Applied Mathematics
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue the MSBA program because I wanted to expand and enhance my analytical experience. Additionally, Wake has a tremendous dedicated career services group that I wanted to take advantage of. I think those things combined helped me to choose the program.
A picture of George.

George Economus

Email
City: Columbus, OH
Undergraduate School: Elon University
Major/Minor: Finance, Business Analytics
Why Wake?
I chose Wake to develop a professional skillset. The ability to work one-on-one with my career coach while building a technical arsenal was ultimately most appealing to me.
A picture of ShengEr.

ShengEr “Samuel” Zhou

Email
City: Shanghai, China
China
Undergraduate School: Boston University
Major/Minor: Sociology / Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Why Wake?
After graduating from the MS in Management, I chose to pursue MSBA because of the growing importance of business analytics in the realization of strategy.
A picture of Kendall.

Kendall Hillson

Email
City: Simpsonville, SC
Undergraduate School: Anderson University
Major/Minor: Marketing, Computing & Data Analytics
Why Wake?
I felt like Wake Forest was the best program to help me pursue my future career goals. Meeting with the faculty, staff, and students made Wake Forest feel like the perfect fit for me. I also feel like this program will provide me with the skills to apply my knowledge to real world scenarios.
A picture of Lauren.

Lauren Johnson

Email
City: Ashburn, VA
Undergraduate School: High Point University
Major/Minor: International Business / Spanish, Dance
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue a MSBA because I wanted to challenge myself. I wanted to gain more technical skills which would allow me to conduct analysis on industries, markets, etc. I enjoy marketing, and in order to be successful within that field, you have to be able to conduct market research and analysis. This program will further develop my analytical skills, soft skills, and my knowledge on business practices. I was also highly intrigued in the practicum project. The opportunity to work hands-on with a company was highly influential in my decision to come to Wake Forest.
A picture of Max.

Max Koontz

Email
City: Winston-Salem, NC
Undergraduate School: Hampden-Sydney College
Major/Minor: Business, Economics
Why Wake?
I chose Wake to enhance my knowledge of real world business practices and give myself a competitive advantage in a contentious employment market.
A picture of Andrew.

Andrew Loftis

Email
City: Lexington, SC
Undergraduate School: Wofford College
Major/Minor: Finance, Spanish
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue the MSBA degree here at Wake Forest because the program provides crucial skills for the modern-day workplace which is driven by analytics. I also have friends who have completed this program and spoke about their positive experiences, which further encouraged my decision.
A picture of Eric.

Eric Mayo

Email
City: Jonesboro, GA
Undergraduate School: University of Georgia
Major/Minor: Agribusiness / Agricultural & Applied Economics
Why Wake?
I chose the MSBA program because I was not satisfied with just my undergrad degree. While I do not regret my major, I knew I wanted to take this a step further and break into the business world. With this program, I will be able to mix agriculture and analytics to work in the supply chain or food production industry.
A picture of Mary.

Mary Martha Milcoff

Email
City: Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate School: Wake Forest University
Major/Minor: Economics, Sociology
Why Wake?
The easier answer is because this is my favorite place ever and I don’t want to leave! But the more logical answer is because this program enables me to take courses and make connections within the School of Business. Wake had already prepared me professionally with my major work and time spent working with career coaches, but the MSBA really allows me to hone in on that overlap between education and professional knowledge.
A picture of Jennifer.

Jennifer Ontiveros-Olivas

Email
City: High Point, NC
Undergraduate School: University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Major/Minor: Business Administration, Management
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue the MSBA at Wake Forest for several reasons: it’s a reputable institution, its values align with mine, and it offers a 10-month program. I calculated my return on investment and determined it was worth every sacrifice. After completing my undergraduate degree, I felt something was missing. I was confident Wake Forest would challenge me and contribute to my personal growth by pushing me beyond my known limits.
A picture of Nico.

Nico Panos

Email
City: Loveland, OH
Undergraduate School: Wake Forest University
Major/Minor: Statistics, Communication
Why Wake?
The MSBA seemed like the perfect blend of my undergraduate majors of Statistics and Communication, plus the opportunity to increase my business skills and knowledge. The MSBA program helps students learn to use data analysis to help businesses pursue their goals, and with my interest in marketing analytics, the art of data storytelling is a skill that I certainly need great experience in.
A picture of Yuchen.

Yuchen “Rita” Qin

Email
City: Changchun, Jilin
China
Undergraduate School: Huaqiao University
Major/Minor: English
Why Wake?
I chose Wake due to its rich history and exceptional academic offerings. My experience in the Management program was enjoyable, providing me with valuable insights into business management and consulting methodologies. After researching careers in consulting, particularly in the realm of data analytics, I made the decision to pursue a Master of Science in Business Analytics program at Wake as part of the International Leaders Program. My choice was driven by the program’s high rankings and rigorous curriculum. So far, the program has fully equipped me with the necessary tools to embark on a successful career in data analytics consulting.
A picture of Cole.

Cole Ritchey

Email
City: Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate School: Indiana University
Major/Minor: Informatics / Business, Entrepreneurship
Why Wake?
The main reason I chose to pursue an MSBA at Wake Forest was to learn valuable skills that will help me excel in my future career while also opening up better job opportunities.
A picture of Michelle.

Michelle Saikali

Email
City: Morehead City, NC
Undergraduate School: University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Major/Minor: Business Administration with a concentration in Data Analytics
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue the MSBA program at Wake Forest because I felt like I didn’t know all that there was to know about data analytics just from my time in undergrad. I knew Wake Forest had an amazing program that would take me from the educational to professional workforce and make me industry ready. I immediately felt at home during my interview process and with all of the connections I made during that time. I am beyond happy with where I ended up, as I feel very included here!
A picture of Anoush.

Anoush Shah

Email
City: Marietta, GA
Undergraduate School: University of South Carolina
Major/Minor: Finance & Supply Chain / Business Analytics
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue the MSBA at Wake Forest because of its outstanding reputation in the field and the comprehensive curriculum it offers. The program’s emphasis on real-world applications of analytics align perfectly with my career goals. Also, the strong sense of community of a smaller school and the opportunities for networking were major draws for me.
A picture of Shanay.

Shanay Sonawala

Email
City: Mumbai, India
India
Undergraduate School: Wake Forest University
Major/Minor: Engineering / Mathematics
Why Wake?
Being from an engineering background, I did not have a lot of business and analytical skills but more problem solving skills. I thought this program would help enhance my problem solving skills and work toward a career in the world of business and analytics.
A picture of Mary.

Mary Troise

Email
City: Lexington, VA
Undergraduate School: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Major/Minor: Economics / Data Science
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue the MSBA at Wake Forest because of the opportunities to gain real-world experience and enhance my technical skills while working alongside like-minded individuals. Wake Forest stood out to me during my graduate school application process because of their commitment to students, both in and outside the classroom. I believe with the MSBA program, you get out of the program what you put in, and any professor or advisor would be happy to speak with you as long as you’re willing to ask. This support and the many resources made Wake stand out against the other analytical programs as they build leaders and storytellers, not just technical analysts.
A picture of Jash.

Jash Vachhani

Email
City: Rajkot, Gujarat
India
Undergraduate School: University at Buffalo
Major/Minor: Business Administration, Management with concentrations in Management Information Systems & International Business
Why Wake?
I chose Wake because of the MSBA program’s strong reputation in the market. As a private school, it offers smaller class sizes, which allows more one-on-one connections with the faculty and staff.
A picture of Michael.

Michael Vejsiri

Email
City: Fort Worth, TX
Undergraduate School: University of Oklahoma
Major/Minor: Economics / Finance
Why Wake?
I came to the MSBA program because the business practicum piqued my interest. I made the mistake of not completing any internships during my undergrad and wanted to find a way to substitute this. After learning about the practicum the program offered and all of its corporate sponsors, I knew I wanted to join the program to get a unique experience that many graduate programs do not offer.
A picture of Natalie.

Natalie Weiner

Email
City: Rye, NY
Undergraduate School: University of California, Berkeley
Major/Minor: Business Administration
Why Wake?
The MSBA program at Wake Forest teaches students valuable skills, such as computer programming and data visualization. Wake Forest MSBA also values real world business experience. With this, they give students the opportunity to work with a team to help support a business’s needs. Moreover, Winston Salem is a wonderful, safe place to live with beautiful local trails and delicious restaurants.
A picture of Patrick.

Patrick Welmaker

Email
City: Asheville, NC
Undergraduate School: Wofford College
Major/Minor: Business Economics / Government
Why Wake?
I chose to pursue the MSBA program at Wake Forest because I wanted to better develop my professional and analytical skills within a smaller school setting that allowed me to build meaningful connections.
A picture of Kyle.

Kyle Wiblishauser

Email
City: Dix Hills, NY
Undergraduate School: University of Richmond
Major/Minor: Computer Science, Cognitive Science / Data Science, Linguistics
Why Wake?
I chose the MSBA program at Wake Forest because I liked doing data science in undergrad. The program allows me to continue working on my data skills while also learning how to apply them in a business setting. I particularly like that we work on a practicum project with a real client, applying our skills to business challenges and learning to communicate with clients.
A picture of Kayla.

Kayla Williams

Email
City: Fort Washington, MD
Undergraduate School: Hawaii Pacific University
Major/Minor: Computer Science
Why Wake?
Choosing Wake Forest was the hardest but most rewarding decision I’ve ever made. I had to choose between an Honors Internship with the FBI and starting the MSBA program. Ultimately, I chose Wake Forest because this school is a beacon for learning, personal and developmental growth, a network of people who will support and guide you, and a family that I will always be connected to. Wake Forest is a place where you feel proud to be a part of because you know you are a part of something big.
A picture of Xiyue.

Xiyue “Shae” Yu

Email
City: Xi’an, Shaanxi
China
Undergraduate School: University of Shanghai for Science & Technology
Major/Minor: International Business
Why Wake?
I want to do something to change the world, and Wake Forest happens to have this great program to help me realize my dream.

MSBA Events

Consider joining us for our next MSBA event

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Nov
14
@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GMAT & GRE Test Prep

It’s always a good time to start preparing for the GMAT or GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you’ll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GMAT/GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GMAT/GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Attend
Dec
11
@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GRE Test Prep

It’s always a good time to start preparing for the GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you’ll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Attend
Jan
14
@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GMAT Test Prep

It’s always a good time to start preparing for the GMAT exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you’ll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GMAT questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GMAT Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Attend
Feb
11
@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GMAT & GRE Test Prep

It’s always a good time to start preparing for the GMAT or GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you’ll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GMAT/GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GMAT/GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Attend
Mar
11
@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GRE Test Prep

It’s always a good time to start preparing for the GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you’ll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Attend
Apr
17
@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GMAT Test Prep

It’s always a good time to start preparing for the GMAT exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you’ll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GMAT questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GMAT Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Attend

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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!

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Dr. Scott M. Shafer

Interim Area Chair; Associate Dean of the MSBA Programs; Professor of Management

(336) 758-3687 |
email
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Eric Haddleton

Assistant Director, Enrollment Management Recruiting

(336) 758-4419 |
email
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Cherie Fu

Associate Director, MSBA Integrative Student Services and International Student Support Specialist

(336) 758-5761 |
email
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Sharron Vogler

Director, Market Readiness and Employment

(336) 758-2418 |
email
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Lynn E. Ebert

Administrative Assistant, MSBA Program

(336) 758-5412 |
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