What is Business Analytics?
Business Analytics is all about using data to make smarter decisions. Today, businesses, governments, and organizations are flooded with data — from sales numbers and website clicks to customer reviews and financial reports. Business Analytics helps make sense of all that information.
As a Business Analytics major, you’ll learn how to collect data, find patterns, and turn numbers into insights that guide strategy and solve real-world problems. It’s like being a detective — but instead of solving crimes, you’re helping companies figure out what to do next, how to be more efficient, and how to serve their customers better.
You don’t need to be a math genius or a computer whiz to get started. What you do need is curiosity, a desire to understand how things work, and the drive to make a difference using evidence and logic.
In short, Business Analytics is the science of turning data into meaningful insights — and ultimately, better decisions.
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Student experiences
The Business Analytics major is a new program launching in Fall 2025. This section will be updated as we welcome our first cohort of students and begin to highlight their experiences and accomplishments.
Business Analytics at Western
Western’s Business Analytics programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to turn complex data into valuable insights that drive smart, strategic decisions. By mastering cutting-edge tools and techniques in data analytics, graduates are well-prepared to play a vital role across all areas of business, including accounting, finance, marketing, operations, human resources, strategy, supply chain management, and technology.
As companies increasingly prioritize data-driven strategies to boost efficiency and foster growth, a career in Business Analytics offers a powerful path into a dynamic and in-demand field.
Western’s program also emphasizes hands-on learning, giving students real-world experience and practical problem-solving skills to meet the challenges of today’s fast-paced business environment.
Business Analytics Degree(s)
Business Administration — Business Analytics Concentration, BA
A distinctive program that blends a strong foundation in business administration with cutting-edge tools and techniques in data analytics. The concentration places special emphasis on practical, real-world applications and internship opportunities to ensure students graduate with both knowledge and experience.
Contact
Sherri Nelson, Major Information: Academic Department Manager
Sherri.Nelson@wwu.edu | 360-650-4505Ìý
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Related Minors
Related Majors
What can you do with this major?
Business Analytics is in high demand across nearly every industry. As a graduate, you’ll be prepared for roles where data-driven decision-making is essential.
A degree in Business Analytics opens the door to a wide range of impactful and flexible career paths. Whether you're passionate about business, technology, healthcare, or public service, analytics gives you the tools to turn data into meaningful action. Below are some example positions across various sectors with a brief description of their typical tasks:
Private Sector
- Data Analyst / Business Analyst – Help companies understand their operations, customers, and markets through data insights.
- Marketing Analyst – Analyze consumer behavior to optimize advertising and campaign strategies.
- Financial Analyst – Use data to inform investment decisions and manage budgets.
- Operations Analyst – Improve supply chains, logistics, and internal processes for greater efficiency.
Public Sector & Government
- Policy Analyst – Evaluate the effectiveness of laws and programs using evidence-based analysis.
- Census or Labor Data Specialist – Analyze population, employment, and economic trends.
Healthcare
- Healthcare Data Analyst – Use patient data and medical records to improve care delivery and hospital operations.
- Public Health Analyst – Track disease patterns, assess interventions, and enhance public health outcomes.
Military & Defense
- Operations Research Analyst – Apply analytical methods to optimize strategy, logistics, and resource allocation.
- Intelligence Analyst – Assess data to identify risks, support mission planning, and strengthen national security.
Western graduates who pursue graduate studies are doing so at schools such as:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Georgia Institute of Technology
While we do not yet have graduates from the Business Analytics major, some students who completed the Business Analytics minor have continued their studies in master’s programs in Business Analytics and Data Science at top institutions.
As the major launches and graduates begin to pursue advanced degrees, this section will be updated to reflect their achievements.
Employers of recent Western graduates
This section will be updated in the coming years as graduates from the Business Analytics program begin their careers and share their success stories.