Kafayat Sadiku
MBA (Business Analytics), MBA
Introduction
The MBA Business Analytics is designed for working professionals who are looking to apply analytics and data-driven decision-making to optimize their business performance. It offers the opportunity to lead, recognise contemporary business knowledge and skills that can take you to an exceptional level in terms of career progression, employability and earning potential.
Study Information
Study Options
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- MBA
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- January or September
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
The programme equips you with technical skills and business acumens to understand modern issues and practices in digital and analytics-driven economies. You will develop practical interpersonal skills to bring positive organisational and market changes. This additionally provides an opportunity to explore and learn modern management tools, big data, databases, digitisation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, key software (e.g., R, Python, SQL) and analytics in the context of business operations and build expertise and capabilities required to be an effective leader.
Our Business School is internationally recognised and plays a major role in industry through research, and consultancy. Not only will you acquire the business knowledge essential to success, you’ll also develop the crucial characteristics – such as strong communication and interpersonal skills, quantitative knowledge and technical skills – most sought after in the highly competitive global business environment.
Available Programmes of Study
- MBA
-
MBA (Business Analytics)
Qualification Duration Learning Mode Study Mode Start Month LocationMBA 12 months On Campus Learning Full Time September MoreMBA Business Analytics
Qualification Duration Learning Mode Study Mode Start Month LocationMBA 24 months On Campus Learning Part Time January Aberdeen MoreProgramme Fees
Please refer to our Tuition Fees page for fee information for this programme, or contact study@abdn.ac.uk.
Year 1
Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5006)
-
This course, which is prescribed for all taught postgraduate students, is studied entirely online, is studied entirely online, takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across the first 4 weeks of term.
Topics include University orientation overview, equality & diversity, MySkills, health, safety and cyber security, and academic integrity.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
Optional Courses
- Business Economics (BU5021)
-
15 Credit Points
This course focuses on the economics of business allowing students to understand the economics that underlie a whole host of business issues. The course will cover the functioning of markets, consumer behaviour, pricing, production and costing problems, monopoly and the business implications of inflation, economic growth and economic policy.
- Accounting and Finance for Managers (BU5026)
-
15 Credit Points
The fact that money (and understanding money) really matters in business and all managers need to understand issues like cashflow and profit might depress you, but it is true. Financial viability of customers? Deciding on the likely financial viability of a project? Reporting to shareholders about performance? Does the word “sustainable” appear in a finance dictionary? All questions we will try and address.
- Business Strategy (BU5048)
-
15 Credit Points
Business Strategy covers a broad range of topics that come under the general heading of “Business Strategy” / “Strategic Management”. The course introduces participants to concepts, frameworks and models that are useful in providing explanations of how companies operate with respect to goal setting, understanding their competitive landscape, assessing opportunities, managing own capabilities, coordinating their activities with other companies, and competing to create value for customers. The course is interactive in nature, applying a learning-by-doing method involving students taking on roles as part of a series of simulation exercises.
- Operations and Project Management (BU5064)
-
15 Credit Points
The focus of this course is not people but processes, not outside the organisation but within. Operations transform materials, information and customers to create goods and services using staff and facilities. We study process types and focus particularly on projects. We see how capacity and inventory reconcile demand and output and explore location, supply chains, quality, risk and resilience. About 40% of the course is on projects and project-management techniques. Prepare for both critical discussion of theory and application (operationalisation), including calculation.
- Strategic Marketing (BU5553)
-
15 Credit Points
The course aims to provide participants with a critical understanding of the nature and articulation of the marketing function within modern organisations, and an appreciation of the relative contribution of specific marketing tools to the development of a market orientation.
On completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Critique the key principles and concepts of marketing.
2. Evaluate the role of marketing to modern organisations in private and public sectors.
3. Understand the integration of the marketing function with other organisational functions.
4. Assess the role of identified marketing techniques
- The Leadership Challenge (BU5584)
-
15 Credit Points
This course provides an opportunity to explore and develop an understanding of your own leadership behaviour. Through workshops, group activities and discussions we investigate how personality, past experience, current situations and culture shape the way each of us behave in a leadership role. Using this information as a starting point we then explore how different leadership theories and approaches can be used as frameworks for developing a deeper understanding of leadership behaviour. You will also have an opportunity to try out a range of practical tools and techniques to assist you in the development of your own approach to leadership.
- Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Forecasting (BU553C)
-
15 Credit Points
This course will introduce machine learning, artificial intelligence and forecasting with applications in finance and management.
The course will explore recent trends in FINTECH, which are based on data analytics and recent advances in machine learning. The course will provide an introduction to Python, which has become the dominant general-purpose programming language in data analytics and machine learning. To be clear, students are not expected to have any prior knowledge of Python or any other programming language.
- Strategic Financial Analysis (BU556M)
-
15 Credit Points
Inanalysis - A framework for analysis: Accounting ratio analysis, Common size analysis, Stock market ratios, Credit ratings, Z scores. Forecasting - A framework for forecasting: Parameter estimation, Financial forecasting models.Issues in analysis - The links between the stock market and accounting: International accounting issues.Introduction to accounting - Key accounting concepts: Financial reporting, Financial statements.
- Applied Data Analytics and Visualisation (BU596J)
-
30 Credit Points
This module introduces students to big data, analytics and visualisation linked to business applications. The module also enables students to solve a variety of complex data-driven business problems using computer software tools, examples R and Gephi. The focus of the module thus is twofold: 1) building relative theoretical understandings, 2) and practice analytics for data-driven decision making for business operations and problems.
- Data, Evidence and Managerial Decisions (BU596K)
-
30 Credit Points
This course provides an introduction to evidence-based decision making. It is designed based on the premise that executives can make better decisions when they believe in evidence and have the skill to use it. The course helps students to make better personal and professional decisions. In particular, the aim of this course is to enable students to solve real-world business problems or to discover new business opportunities using the available data and evidence.
Year 2
Optional Courses
- Business Economics (BU5021)
-
15 Credit Points
This course focuses on the economics of business allowing students to understand the economics that underlie a whole host of business issues. The course will cover the functioning of markets, consumer behaviour, pricing, production and costing problems, monopoly and the business implications of inflation, economic growth and economic policy.
- Accounting and Finance for Managers (BU5026)
-
15 Credit Points
The fact that money (and understanding money) really matters in business and all managers need to understand issues like cashflow and profit might depress you, but it is true. Financial viability of customers? Deciding on the likely financial viability of a project? Reporting to shareholders about performance? Does the word “sustainable” appear in a finance dictionary? All questions we will try and address.
- Operations and Project Management (BU5064)
-
15 Credit Points
The focus of this course is not people but processes, not outside the organisation but within. Operations transform materials, information and customers to create goods and services using staff and facilities. We study process types and focus particularly on projects. We see how capacity and inventory reconcile demand and output and explore location, supply chains, quality, risk and resilience. About 40% of the course is on projects and project-management techniques. Prepare for both critical discussion of theory and application (operationalisation), including calculation.
- Business Strategy (BU5048)
-
15 Credit Points
Business Strategy covers a broad range of topics that come under the general heading of “Business Strategy” / “Strategic Management”. The course introduces participants to concepts, frameworks and models that are useful in providing explanations of how companies operate with respect to goal setting, understanding their competitive landscape, assessing opportunities, managing own capabilities, coordinating their activities with other companies, and competing to create value for customers. The course is interactive in nature, applying a learning-by-doing method involving students taking on roles as part of a series of simulation exercises.
- Strategic Marketing (BU5553)
-
15 Credit Points
The course aims to provide participants with a critical understanding of the nature and articulation of the marketing function within modern organisations, and an appreciation of the relative contribution of specific marketing tools to the development of a market orientation.
On completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Critique the key principles and concepts of marketing.
2. Evaluate the role of marketing to modern organisations in private and public sectors.
3. Understand the integration of the marketing function with other organisational functions.
4. Assess the role of identified marketing techniques
- The Leadership Challenge (BU5584)
-
15 Credit Points
This course provides an opportunity to explore and develop an understanding of your own leadership behaviour. Through workshops, group activities and discussions we investigate how personality, past experience, current situations and culture shape the way each of us behave in a leadership role. Using this information as a starting point we then explore how different leadership theories and approaches can be used as frameworks for developing a deeper understanding of leadership behaviour. You will also have an opportunity to try out a range of practical tools and techniques to assist you in the development of your own approach to leadership.
- Strategic Financial Analysis (BU556M)
-
15 Credit Points
Inanalysis - A framework for analysis: Accounting ratio analysis, Common size analysis, Stock market ratios, Credit ratings, Z scores. Forecasting - A framework for forecasting: Parameter estimation, Financial forecasting models.Issues in analysis - The links between the stock market and accounting: International accounting issues.Introduction to accounting - Key accounting concepts: Financial reporting, Financial statements.
- Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Forecasting (BU553C)
-
15 Credit Points
This course will introduce machine learning, artificial intelligence and forecasting with applications in finance and management.
The course will explore recent trends in FINTECH, which are based on data analytics and recent advances in machine learning. The course will provide an introduction to Python, which has become the dominant general-purpose programming language in data analytics and machine learning. To be clear, students are not expected to have any prior knowledge of Python or any other programming language.
- Applied Data Analytics and Visualisation (BU596J)
-
30 Credit Points
This module introduces students to big data, analytics and visualisation linked to business applications. The module also enables students to solve a variety of complex data-driven business problems using computer software tools, examples R and Gephi. The focus of the module thus is twofold: 1) building relative theoretical understandings, 2) and practice analytics for data-driven decision making for business operations and problems.
- Data, Evidence and Managerial Decisions (BU596K)
-
30 Credit Points
This course provides an introduction to evidence-based decision making. It is designed based on the premise that executives can make better decisions when they believe in evidence and have the skill to use it. The course helps students to make better personal and professional decisions. In particular, the aim of this course is to enable students to solve real-world business problems or to discover new business opportunities using the available data and evidence.
Programme Fees
Fee information Fee category Cost All Students £26,250 Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Fee Information
Additional Fee Information
- Fees for individual programmes can be viewed in the Programmes section above.
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Funding Opportunities
The University of Aberdeen provides an Alumni Discount Scheme:
The University of Aberdeen is very pleased to offer a 20% discount on postgraduate tuition fees for all alumni who have graduated with a degree from the University of Aberdeen. More Information can be found here.
Scholarships
Self-funded international students enrolling on postgraduate taught (PGT) programmes will receive one of our Aberdeen Global Scholarships, ranging from £3,000 to £8,000, depending on your domicile country. Learn more about the Aberdeen Global Scholarships here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
You’ll study in a contemporary university environment and experience innovative teaching methods that give you the chance to interact with industry. You will learn through a combination of theory and practice, taking the knowledge from the classroom to the workplace. A stimulating mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars, case studies, exams, field work and business simulations will be further supported by on-line forums and additional learning materials and frameworks.
Learning Methods
- Field Work
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Peer Learning
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
Assessment Methods
You’ll attend a variety of stimulating lectures, seminars and tutorials, with your skills and competency assessed by a mix of presentations, traditional exams, essays and projects.
Why Study MBA (Business Analytics)?
- Our MBA in Business Analytics equips you with both technical skills and business acumen to comprehend modern issues and practices in analytics and digital-driven economies.
- You will utilize contemporary techniques and tools, such as Python and R, to develop practical interpersonal skills for fostering positive organizational and market changes.
- Ranked 1st Scotland in Student Positivity for Business Studies and Management Studies in the National Student Survey 2024
- Ranked 8th in the UK for Business and Management in the Guardian University Guide 2025
- Ranked 15th in the UK for Business, Management and Marketing in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
- The programme offers an opportunity to explore and grasp analytics and data-driven concepts interlinked with digitisation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. With versatile career options, you will adopt a data-driven strategy for competitive advantages, operational efficiency, and interdisciplinary links, enhancing overall business performance.
- Our internationally recognized Business School actively contributes to industry through research and consultancy. Acquire essential business knowledge and develop crucial characteristics—strong communication and interpersonal skills, quantitative knowledge, and technical proficiency—sought after in the highly competitive global business environment.
What Our Students Say
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Open to graduates from any discipline, this programme does not require business or management study to be completed at undergraduate level.
This programme is for you if you have a minimum of TWO years post-degree work experience; a track record of professional achievement and a good first degree (equivalent to a British second-class Honours degree) or above in any discipline.
The Programme Director may consider applicants with non-standard qualifications. If you have non-standard qualifications and extensive work experience, please ensure to enclose a complete CV and detailed work references.
Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- CV
- an up-to-date CV/Resumé
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
- Personal Statement
- a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme
Careers
The MBA Business Analytics is designed for working professionals who are looking to apply analytics and data-driven decision-making to optimize their business performance. It offers the opportunity to lead, recognise contemporary business knowledge and skills that can take you to an exceptional level in terms of career progression, employability and earning potential.
MBA graduates are in high demand worldwide and the average salary of an MBA graduate is over £80,000 according to the Association of MBAs. Our Alumni have enjoyed much success with recent graduates going on to work in organisations such as Accenture, Bank of Scotland, Centrica, Citibank, KPMG, Shell and Standard Chartered Bank.
Industry Links
Experience three Professional Development Weeks annually, providing you with valuable opportunities to enhance your skills and career prospects. Additionally, participate in our Careers Fair, where you can interact with potential employers, explore diverse career paths, and make connections that can shape your professional journey.
Accreditation
The Business School is EQUIS accredited, placing it among a select group of globally recognised institutions. Out of over 15,000 business schools worldwide, only around 200 schools across 45 countries have attained this distinction.
This degree holds accreditation from
Our Experts
- Programme Leader
- John Storm
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Facilities
- 24 hour access to our online Learning Support provided via our Virtual Learning environment MyAberdeen.
- Membership of the University Library, learning materials including access to core text books.
- Access to international networking and continuing professional development.
- Join our business societies such as the Entrepreneurial Society.
- Access to the Internet via the university computer.
- Access to all campus facilities.
Sir Duncan Rice Library
The University’s award winning Sir Duncan Rice Library is listed in the “Top 20 spellbinding University libraries in the World”. It contains over a million volumes, more than 300,000 e-books and 21,000 journals.
Find out moreGet in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Business School
University of Aberdeen
MacRobert Building
King Street
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX