3 US schools inspiring data-driven business leaders

With so much data proliferating industries of all kinds, data analytics is a vital skill set that is in urgent demand across every sector and function in the global economy. Employment in data-related fields is projected to grow by 35% from 2022 to 2032, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics — highlighting the need for talent who can analyse large pools of data to spot patterns and make better decisions. Today, data analytics is the lifeline of any business.

Consider the pharmaceutical company performing trials on patients to test its new drug or the beauty company seeking to launch a new variant on an existing line of lipsticks. Both have problems to solve and decisions to come to — and it’s data analysis that’ll help them get there.

For students eager to carve out a successful career in this dynamic landscape, choosing the right university is key. In this article, we explore three US schools that offer top-tier analytics programmes. They prepare students to advance their career in the ever-evolving business environment with innovative curricula, strong industry connections, and a supportive community. 

Alfred Lerner College of Business & Economics prepares students for the business industry through experiential learning and leadership development. Source: University of Delaware

University of Delaware

The University of Delaware, Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics is well-known for its welcoming community and diverse student body. With students from over 100 countries, there’s always someone new to meet or something new to do, such as attending  Thanksgiving dinner, joining the International Student Essay Contest, or the many events organised by the Lerner Graduate Student Associations.

Established in 1917, Lerner is consistently recognised for its academic excellence. The college was ranked in the top 30 by Fortune and US News & World Report and select programmes have held accreditation from the AACSB for over 50 years.

For those interested in analytics and who want to be part of a top-ranked, welcoming school, Lerner is the place to be. It offers a range of STEM-designated graduate business programmes that may extend an international student’s Optional Practical Training in the US for up to 24 months. Students can pursue an MBA in Business Analytics or a Master of Science in various fields, including Accounting, Finance, and Business Analytics and Information Management. Unique dual degree options, such as the MBA + M.S. in Business Analytics and Information Management, MBA + M.S. in Finance and M.S. in Business Analytics and Information Management + M.S. in Cybersecurity, provide students with flexible pathways to enhance their skill sets and career prospects.

The College prides itself on its supportive environment. From its own in-house Lerner Career Services Center to mentorship programmes to industry networking connections, it ensures that every student has the means to feel at home. Its vast global alumni network further enhances this sense of community, connecting current students with successful graduates eager to share their insights and experiences.

But that’s not all; students at Lerner enjoy a variety of hands-on learning opportunities, including participating in the Carol A. Ammon Case Competition and working as graduate interns in industry settings. These experiences enrich their education and provide valuable insights into real-world business challenges.

Whether pursuing a master’s degree in analytics or engaging in experiential learning opportunities, Lerner students are well-equipped to thrive in their future careers. Apply to the University of Delaware Lerner College of Business & Economics today — GMAT/GRE scores are not required.

Olin transforms students’ perspectives on business and equips them to tackle real-life challenges. Source: Washington University Olin Business School

Washington University Olin Business School

Located in St. Louis, WashU Olin offers international students a vibrant and diverse community. This, combined with a comfortable pace of life and a low cost of living (11% lower than the national average), makes it an ideal stage for students to flourish academically and personally.

Since its establishment in 1917, Washington University Olin Business School has stood as a beacon of excellence in business education. The school, accredited by AACSB International, AMBA, and EQUIS, has consistently maintained its position as one of the top business schools in the United States, dominating the top spot for the Poets & Quants ranking of MBA entrepreneurship programmes for five consecutive years.

WashU Olin offers an array of MBA programmes designed to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s data-driven business landscape. With a commitment to its Values Based, Data Driven™ ethos, the school provides full-time, part-time, and Executive MBA options that cater to a wide range of professional needs and aspirations.

There are also STEM-designated business programmes, including a Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA), available both in person and online. Students of this programme gain technical skills, analytical expertise and access to cutting-edge research and real-world experience through the Center for Analytics and Business Insight.

Beyond the classroom, students benefit from a network of peers, faculty, and alumni committed to their success. The school’s student organisations, such as the Olin Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Club, provide platforms for students to join extracurricular activities, build leadership skills, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Goizueta Business School strives to create principled leaders who make a positive impact. Source: Emory University Goizueta Business School

Emory University Goizueta Business School

Emory University’s Goizueta Business School has established itself as a leading institution for aspiring business leaders. Founded in 1919, the school ranks 14^th-best full-time MBA programme, 20^th for part-time MBA, and 11^th for Executive MBA in the United States. This reputation for excellence is further evidenced by the impressive career outcomes of its graduates.

96% of the Class of 2023 received job offers across diverse industries—consulting, technology, financial services, and retail—within three months of graduation. Today, these graduates are making their mark at top organisations like Amazon, Bain & Company, EY, and Capital One Financial Corporation.

The school offers various MBA options to suit different professional needs, including full-time, part-time, and Executive MBAs and specialised Master’s programmes, such as the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA). This 10-month, STEM-designated programme combines management, information systems, and applied statistics to train students in solving complex business problems.

But it’s not just the programmes that make the Goizueta Business School a great place to study. Located in Atlanta, the school is part of a welcoming community that enhances both academic and personal growth. Students can join a variety of clubs, whether cultural or academic, to make friends and develop their leadership skills. Career-wise, the capital is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies and is recognised as one of the top tech hubs in the country, providing students with ample opportunities to network with industry leaders.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International