Business Analytics - MSc
Harnessing digital transformation to enhance business performance requires robust analytical skills and data analysis expertise. Professionals adept at managing and interpreting data to guide strategic decisions are highly sought after. A key focus of our Business Analytics MSc is developing your understanding of machine learning, business intelligence, big data and cloud computing. The programme also provides you with practical industry experience preparing you for success in data-driven roles within the global business arena.
Month of entry
- September, January
Mode of study
- Full time
Fees for 2025/26 academic year
- UK - Full time £12,700 per year.
International - £17,700 per year.
Duration of study
- 1 year
This programme is available with a Placement - an opportunity to complete a 6-12 month placement after the taught element of the course. Apply for the 'with Placement' option below.
Why study Business Analytics at Keele University?
Course summary
Individuals with the skills to tackle complex business challenges, deliver impactful data insights and who understand the latest technological innovations in the business analytics field are highly valued by employers.
The contemporary structure of our programme provides a comprehensive introduction to business analytics complemented by in-depth technical training. It aims to develop your skills and knowledge in areas such as data analytics, machine learning and statistical modelling, and you’ll gain hands-on experience with analytical tools, data visualisation and business intelligence resources. Big data technologies and cloud computing platforms are examined within a business context addressing important issues such as data governance, security and how big data is stored and processed. You’ll analyse the impact of artificial intelligence on business analytics and investigate the latest AI technologies.
Central to this programme is a strong focus on advancing your professional development and providing practical industry engagement opportunities, strategically enhancing your employability. You’ll connect with experienced professionals, gain insights into the latest trends in your chosen field and have the opportunity to work directly with an organisation to develop solutions for a current business issue, gaining valuable real-world skills.
Our programme provides the flexibility to align your studies to your career aspirations through a core Professional Project. You can choose to undertake a research project, consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal.
Sustainability, ethics and responsible business practices are embedded throughout and by completing Keele Business School’s Sustainability Passport you’ll demonstrate your ability to incorporate sustainability practices in a professional context.
Located in an innovation park that fosters collaboration between academia and industry, Keele’s campus offers a supportive learning environment designed to prepare you to excel in the dynamic world of global business.
Other courses you may be interested in:
Next steps
Innovative Postgraduate Courses at Keele Business School
Course structure
If you choose the 'with Placement' route, you will complete a 6-12 month placement module after the taught element of your programme.
Modules
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
Business Analytics Module Structure
Compulsory modules
Business Consultancy Project
In the Business Consultancy Project, you will build foundational skills and gain practical experience by working directly with a real organisation to develop solutions to real-world challenges. You will learn to engage with businesses, frame organisational issues, and apply creativity and innovation. This module develops core skills in collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, preparing you for the Professional Project and Placement. It provides a strong foundation for success in other areas of the programme.
Professional Development and Industry Insights
This module helps you explore the industry you want to work in, including its structure, recruitment practices, and key trends. You will assess your own skills and experiences, identifying how you align with the industry’s needs and expectations. Through active learning, reflective activities, and guest speaker insights, you will develop practical knowledge and career planning skills. The module supports your progression into the Business Consultancy Project, Professional Project, and Placement, preparing you for future opportunities.
Advanced Data Analytics and Machine Learning
You will develop expertise in advanced data analytics and machine learning, exploring supervised and unsupervised learning, deep learning, and natural language processing. This module provides hands-on experience with leading data analytics tools and frameworks, enabling you to build predictive models and extract meaningful insights from complex datasets. You will enhance your ability to tackle real-world challenges, preparing for roles requiring high-level analytical and problem-solving skills.
Business Intelligence and Data Visualisation
You will gain the skills to transform complex data into actionable business intelligence using advanced visualisation techniques. This module introduces you to powerful tools like Power BI, Tableau, and Python's visualisation libraries, enabling you to create impactful dashboards and reports. By focusing on real-world applications, you will learn to present data-driven insights effectively, supporting strategic decision-making in dynamic business environments.
Big Data and Cloud Computing for Business
This module provides an in-depth understanding of big data technologies and cloud computing platforms, focusing on their applications in business. You will learn to store, process, and analyse large-scale datasets in cloud environments using tools such as Hadoop, Spark, and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure. The module also covers essential topics in data governance, security, and ethical considerations, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to harness these technologies effectively for business success.
AI-Powered Digital Transformation in Business Analytics
This module explores how organisations use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform businesses and drive digital innovation through analytics. You will gain insights into AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics, and their applications in enhancing data-driven decision-making, improving efficiency, and fostering innovation. Using real-world case studies, this module highlights the role of AI in business transformation across industries, equipping you with the knowledge to lead AI-driven initiatives effectively.
Professional Project
In the Professional Project, you will undertake an independent piece of work that builds on academic and practical skills developed throughout the programme. You can choose from three routes: a research project, a consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal, aligned to your career aspirations. We will support you in preparing for your chosen path with essential research or consultancy skills. The module culminates in a detailed write-up and reflective analysis, showcasing your expertise and professional growth.
Next steps
PRME Champions
Keele Business School (KBS) has been selected for the 2024-2025 cohort of PRME Champions. Consisting of 47 businesses and management schools from around the world, The Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) is an initiative of the United Nations Global Compact, focused on raising the bar for sustainable business education. More information about PRME Champions can be found here.
Entry requirements
Pre-Master's in Business
The Keele University International College offer a one semester Pre-Master's in Business programme for international students who do not meet the traditional entry requirements for a postgraduate business degree at Keele University.
Please visit the Keele University International College for more information on how to apply, entry requirements and course details.
Next steps
Entry requirements
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.
Typical offer
Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.
Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
UK
2:2 degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bangladesh
60% in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a public university or CGPA 2.8 in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a private university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
We don’t accept degrees from certain universities, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Canada
70% or C or a GPA of 2.5 in a degree (Ordinary or Honours) in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
China
70% in a degree in any subject or 65% in a degree in any subject from a '211' university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
India
55% or CGPA 6/10 in any degree of three years or longer
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kenya
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nepal
60% / 2.4 in a 4-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
65% / CGPA 2.8 in a 3-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nigeria
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pakistan
We accept a range of qualifications from Pakistan. Please visit our Pakistan Country Page for more information
or we will consider demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need an English language qualification (see below)
South Africa
Second class division 2 / 60% in a Bachelor's degree with Honours in any subject
or
Second class division 1 / 70% in an Ordinary Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Sri Lanka
55% in a Special Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Uganda
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Zimbabwe
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pre-Master's in Business
The Keele University International College offer a one semester Pre-Master's in Business programme for international students who do not meet the traditional entry requirements for a postgraduate business degree at Keele University.
Please visit the Keele University International College for more information on how to apply, entry requirements and course details.
English language requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group B.
References
Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.
RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.
Professional qualifications and work experience
The majority of our courses will consider relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications at the appropriate level, as an alternative to an undergraduate degree for entry. The work experience should be for a sustained period and at a suitable level, based within a relevant sector to your chosen course.
Admissions staff will review your work experience and/or professional qualifications during the assessment of your application to ensure suitability in terms of relevancy, level and appropriate learning outcomes.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application.
Funding
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2025 start date falls in the 2024/25 academic year. Please see the January 2025 fees for the relevant fees for starting this course in January 2025
Planning your funding
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses and not all students are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in some cases, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our Financial Support Team.
Scholarships
We are committed to rewarding excellence and potential. Please visit our scholarships and bursaries webpage for more information.
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Next steps
Your career
Expertise in business analytics can open the door to a broad range of exciting career possibilities. Across various industries, organisations are generating vast amounts of data, increasing the demand for professionals skilled in data interpretation and analysis.
You could pursue roles as a business consultant, business analyst or data analyst, either as a consultant or in-house within a market research, analytics function or with broader management responsibility. On completion, you’ll also be ideally placed to pursue further postgraduate studies at MPhil or PhD level.
Past graduates within Keele Business School have secured positions in a variety of industries, including Deloitte and BAE systems.
Typical roles a graduate of this programme could progress to include:
- Business Analyst/Consultant
- Business Intelligence Analyst/Consultant
- Business Manager
- Data Analyst/Consultant
- Marketing Analyst/Consultant
- Supply Chain Analyst/Consultant
Enhance your employability
Keele Careers and Employability offers comprehensive support for careers and placements, including workshops, personalised guidance, and access to job opportunities. Their services include CV development, interview preparation, and career planning to help you succeed with confidence in your professional journey.
Next steps
Placements
This programme is available with a Placement - an opportunity to undertake a 6-12 month industry placement after the taught element of the programme.
This practical experience enhances employability, strengthens transferable skills, and demonstrates professional capability in the competitive jobs market.
Whilst placements are competitive and therefore not guaranteed, our dedicated Placements and Projects Team will support you in finding a suitable opportunity, and will provide guidance throughout the process. We strongly encourage students to actively engage with these services as soon as possible to maximise the chances of securing a placement.
Tuition fees for students on the "with Placement" programme will be charged at 20% of the standard Home Undergraduate annual tuition fees for that year of study on placement.
To apply for this programme with a Postgraduate Placement, use the Apply Now button above.
For eligibility criteria, information on transferring onto the Postgraduate Placement route, fees and additional costs, visa information and support available, please see our dedicated Postgraduate Placements web page.
For key information about the programme, including the structure of modules, assessment methods and awards, please see the relevant programme specifications.
Teaching, learning and assessment
How you'll be taught
Teaching on our Business Analytics MSc combines interactive and applied learning methods to create a dynamic and engaging experience. You’ll benefit from interactive, in person lectures, small group tutorials, and web-based learning via the Keele Learning Environment (KLE). Independent study is encouraged, allowing you to explore your interests in greater depth, while reflective practice helps you evaluate and enhance your learning journey. Communication and teamwork skills are developed through peer-assisted learning and collaborative projects. Additionally, you’ll engage with real-world scenarios through live business challenges, company visits, and guest lectures, gaining valuable insights directly from industry professionals.
How you'll be assessed
You will be assessed using a wide variety of methods which reflect the breadth of the knowledge and skills you will have developed on the programme, including assignments, group assessments, project write ups, presentations, research papers, portfolios and reports.
Next steps
Our expertise
Teaching on this course is delivered jointly by staff from the Keele Business School and the University’s School of Computer Science and Mathematics.
KBS staff have extensive teaching, research and work experience in their fields. The School maintains a strong commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching and research. Our staff members have substantial teaching experience and are committed to continuing professional development as academic teachers. Many of our permanent lecturers have PhDs or other higher degrees or professional qualifications.
Staff within the School of Computer Science and Mathematics conduct internationally-recognised research in multidisciplinary AI and Data Analytics. The School also has several collaborative projects with industry partners, for example, a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the global automotive company, Bentley Motors Ltd, to develop an innovative data mining processes that will allow Bentley to exploit the value hidden in the data it owns and collects.
Teaching team:
- Dr Geetika Jain (Programme Director)
- Dr Alistair Channon
- Dr Shirley Xu
- Dr Sangeeta Sangeeta
Next steps
Co-located with businesses
As a Keele Business School student, you will study alongside innovative companies that are based in the Business School building, a hub for fostering networks and linking with industry.
Keele Business School is located at the heart of the Keele University Science & Innovation Park, one of the leading developments of its kind in the UK. The Park offers companies a business environment that provides an innovative research culture, combined with academic expertise and the University’s specialist resources, with a variety of opportunities for students to get involved, from internships, knowledge exchange partnerships, and student enterprise initiatives.
Supporting you
Throughout your studies, you’ll be fully supported and have access to a variety of resources. The programme begins with a comprehensive induction, designed to help you transition smoothly and confidently into your academic journey. An academic mentor will be assigned to you, offering guidance and advice on academic challenges and general support. You’ll also have regular opportunities to engage with the programme team to provide feedback on learning and teaching. Additional support is available from our Student Experience and Support Team based within our Faculty, who work closely with teams across Keele ensuring you have easy access to comprehensive advice and support, including services for Disability Support and Inclusion, Student Financial Support, Counselling and Mental Health, Residence Life and Chaplaincy, and International Student Support.
Next steps
