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With a master’s degree in applied analytics, graduates can pursue careers such as AI strategist, marketing analyst, operations analyst, analytics manager and more across industries that rely on data-driven decision-making.
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The MS in Applied Analytics (MSAA) online program at USC Bovard College teaches students to apply data analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning to solve real-world business challenges.
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Demand for applied analytics and data science professionals continues to grow, with data scientist roles projected to increase 34 percent, making a master’s degree in applied analytics a strong pathway to high-demand careers.
For organizations to succeed, collecting data isn’t enough — they also need to understand it. Data reveals what customers want, how operations can improve and where new opportunities lie. But turning raw numbers into insight isn’t easy; anyone who’s ever stared down a massive spreadsheet knows how overwhelming data can be.
That’s where applied analytics professionals come in. These specialists gather, interpret and apply data to solve real-world business challenges. The work sits at the intersection of technology, numbers and strategy, a combination that’s increasingly valuable across industries. It’s also the skill set students develop in the Master of Science in Applied Analytics (MSAA) online program from USC Bovard College.
What Is the MSAA Program?
The MSAA program is a fully online graduate degree designed to be completed in one to two years. Its focus is practical: teaching students how to use analytics to inform decision-making and drive business outcomes.
Students learn to work with analytics tools, build models, interpret complex datasets and translate insights into actionable recommendations, whether that means refining a marketing strategy, improving operational efficiency or identifying growth opportunities.
“We designed the program for students from very different industries and backgrounds, whether they are new to data analytics or looking to deepen existing knowledge,” said Anna Shebanow, a professor at USC Bovard College. “The courses were developed around current industry needs and what’s coming in the near future.”
A defining feature of the MSAA program is its emphasis on real-world application and artificial intelligence. AI is woven throughout the curriculum, ensuring students graduate with skills that reflect how analytics are actually used today and gain the knowledge needed to examine end-to-end processes of the analytics and AI life cycles.
“Everyone needs to learn AI now. It’s one of the biggest innovations of our time,” explained Joyce Shen, a USC Bovard professor. “The MSAA program incorporates AI into every part of the curriculum, from data analysis and visualization to machine learning, deep learning and generative AI. Students also explore AI through a business lens, focusing on strategy and innovation. … Students are prepared to meaningfully contribute to the future of industry and society.”
With faculty consistently present and actively engaged each week, the program transforms online learning into a dynamic and collaborative experience that rivals the energy of a traditional classroom. Faculty also play a central role in keeping the curriculum current. Many come from industry backgrounds and actively bring that experience into the classroom.
“Our faculty come from diverse industry and academic backgrounds,” said Chris Kuo, another USC Bovard College professor. “They bring real-world experience into the classroom, and their passion [for learning] allows us to stay at the frontier of AI.”
What Careers Can MSAA Graduates Pursue?
Because data touches nearly every function of an organization, MSAA graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles, including:
- AI strategist
- Marketing analyst
- Operations analyst
- Chief data officer
- Data analyst
- Analytics manager
- Data product manager
- Business intelligence lead
- AI engineer
- GenAI content creator
- Data scientist
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The program also emphasizes communication and strategic thinking, skills that help graduates move beyond technical roles and into leadership. As companies increasingly integrate AI into their operations, this positions graduates to step into roles overseeing analytics, machine learning and AI-driven initiatives.
“Our students are prepared to lead change management within organizations,” said Kuo.
What Is the Job Outlook for Applied Analytics Professionals?
The demand for analytics talent continues to grow across sectors, from health care and technology to finance and creative industries.
“Whatever your passion is — arts, science, technology — you can combine it with AI,” said Anne Robinson, a professor with USC Bovard College.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, data science roles are projected to grow 34 percent from 2024 to 2034, far faster than the national average. Salaries also reflect the demand: the median pay for data scientists in 2024 was $112,590, though compensation varies based on location, experience and industry.
USC Bovard College students benefit not only from in-demand skills, but also from access to professional networks.
“One of the fastest ways students connect with industry is through their professors,” Shebanow said. “Faculty regularly introduce students to companies, and USC’s career services help support those connections.”
The Bottom Line
For those who enjoy working with data, technology and business strategy, the online MS in Applied Analytics offers a direct path to a wide range of careers. Graduates are prepared for roles spanning analytics, leadership, entrepreneurship and academia across virtually every industry.
What sets the program apart is its emphasis on applied learning and AI. Every week, students engage with real-world datasets through hands-on module deliverables, bridging the gap between theory and the challenges they will face in practice.
“The benefit of including AI in our program is career readiness,” said Kuo. “Our students are prepared for the level of demand we’re seeing across industry.”
“This is a strong option for anyone looking to augment their education with a modern, relevant degree,” added Robinson.
Learn more about the online MS in Applied Analytics program at USC Bovard College today.