program requirements Department School
Undergraduate Major Business Analytics and Actuarial Science School of Business

Business Analytics: Transform Data Into Impactful Decisions

 

Discover the Power of Data

In today’s data-driven world, businesses thrive on insights that drive decisions. As a Business Analytics major, you'll gain the expertise to transform raw data into clear, actionable insights that guide real business outcomes.

What You'll Learn

From day one, you'll dive into data analysis, learning to collect, manage, and interpret complex datasets. By mastering industry-standard tools like R/R-Studio, you'll be equipped to tackle real-world challenges in operations, finance, marketing, and beyond. This hands-on experience means you won’t just learn theories—you'll apply them directly to real business scenarios.

REAL-WORLD SKILLS FOR REAL-WORLD SUCCESS

Our curriculum prepares you to make informed predictions and data-driven decisions that can shape strategies and drive success in any industry. You’ll take courses such as:

Quantitative Business Analytics: Master the art of turning data into strategic decisions.

Business Statistics II: Hone your skills in statistical analysis for better decision-making.

Analytics for Business Intelligence: Learn to transform data into actionable insights for business growth.

Business Analytics Capstone: Showcase your skills through real projects that solve real problems.

 

Why Siena's Business Analytics Stands Out

While other programs may focus solely on technical skills, we emphasize the ability to communicate complex data insights in a way that's accessible to everyone. You'll learn to lead projects, present data findings confidently, and drive change. Our approach ensures you’re ready to make an impact, not just as a data analyst but as a strategic thinker who can guide teams with clarity and vision.

 

A Unique Approach to Solving Complex Problems

Aspiring leaders will find an opportunity here to apply analytics skills to tackle pressing societal challenges, such as homelessness, poverty, and social justice issues. You won’t just analyze numbers—you’ll use data to make a difference.

 

Learn from Experienced Faculty

Our professors are more than just instructors—they’re experienced data professionals who are passionate about the field. They'll guide you through every step, offering personalized support and real-world insights. 

“The professors in the department are all extremely knowledgeable, easy to approach, and genuinely interested in making the topics engaging.” - Xander Cook

 

3+1 Business Analytics Pathway

Imagine earning both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just four years—saving time, saving money, and gaining an unbeatable edge in your career. With Siena's 3+1 Business Analytics program, you don’t have to imagine it—you can live it.

Proven Outcomes

Siena Business Analytics graduates turn data into impact. Alumni are working at top organizations like Goldman Sachs Ayco, Regeneron, NYS Department of Taxation and Finance, Mass Mutual, Modelyzr GmbH, Booz Allen, Mohawk, Thoroughbred Advisors, Bottega Veneta, Falcon Solutions, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Wind River Environmental. With average starting salaries between $63,037 and $90,315, our graduates step confidently into roles as data analysts, materials specialist, data migration specialist, and business analyst, with plenty of room to grow.

Real Hands-On Experience

You'll participate in carefully chosen case analyses and team projects that mirror the challenges you'll face in the field. By the time you graduate, you’ll have a portfolio of work showcasing your ability to analyze data, draw insights, and communicate results effectively.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

With a degree in Business Analytics from Siena, you’ll be ready to step into a world of opportunities. Whether you're drawn to marketing, healthcare, sports analytics, or another field, your skills will be in high demand.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the difference between business analytics and data science?
Business analytics focuses on using data to solve business problems and guide decisions, while data science typically goes deeper into programming, algorithms, and building statistical or machine learning models. Siena’s Business Analytics major combines quantitative skills with a strong understanding of business strategy and communication.

2. Do I need to be good at math to major in business analytics?
Business analytics does involve statistics, quantitative reasoning, and working with data, but students do not need to arrive as experts. The program builds these skills through coursework and hands-on projects while teaching students how to apply them to real business situations.

3. What industries hire business analytics majors?
Business analytics skills are used across nearly every industry, including finance, healthcare, marketing, technology, consulting, retail, sports, government, and insurance. Siena graduates are prepared to use data to improve decisions, identify trends, and solve business problems across a wide range of organizations.

4. What jobs can you get with a business analytics degree?
A business analytics degree can prepare students for careers such as business analyst, data analyst, business intelligence analyst, marketing analyst, operations analyst, financial analyst, and other data-driven business roles.

5. Is Siena a good school for business analytics?
Yes. Siena’s Business Analytics program is housed within its AACSB-accredited School of Business and combines business knowledge, data analysis, hands-on projects, and communication skills. Students learn to turn complex data into insights that organizations can use to make better decisions.

YOUR PATH TO LEADERSHIP

If you're ready to lead with data, innovate, and drive change, the Business Analytics program at Siena is the place to start. Learn more today and start your journey toward becoming a data-driven leader.

 

Dr. Joseph McCollum

Professor of Business Analytics and Actuarial Science