The UCR School of Business is set to launch a new undergraduate degree program in business analytics, aimed at equipping students with the skills to utilize quantitative methods to analyze large amounts of data and enhance business decision-making processes. This major will enable graduates to interpret the current state of a business, forecast future outcomes, and suggest strategies for growth and improvement.
The addition of the business analytics major aligns with the growing need for professionals with strong quantitative abilities in the workforce. The demand for business analysts is on the rise, with job opportunities expected to grow significantly by 2031. In the Riverside area, there were over 200 business analyst positions available as of February 2024, with an average base salary of $93,431 in California.
The program will require students to complete rigorous coursework in business, math, statistics, and computer science. It will have a technical and quantitative focus, aiming to obtain STEM certification for the major. Hands-on experiences, including an internship in the business analytics field, will also be essential components of the curriculum.
Starting next year, the School of Business anticipates enrolling a select group of students in the business analytics program, with the goal of growing the cohort to around 100 students in the future. The program is designed to meet the needs of
