MBA in Data Science: Course, Colleges, And Career!

Vaishali Pandey
July 17, 2024

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MBA In Data Science: All that You Need to Know!

Did you know? The Bureau of Labor Statistics in the US projects a 35% job growth for data science roles by 2033. Data is everywhere these days, from your phone habits to online shopping. But for businesses in India, all this data can be overwhelming. An MBA in Data Science can turn you into a superhero, able to understand this information and use it to make businesses win. 

This guide will show you everything you need to know about an MBA in Data Science – what you'll learn, where to study, and the awesome jobs you can get. 

MBA in Data Science: Key Highlights

An MBA in Data Science combines the best of business education with the technical expertise of data science. This course is designed to provide you with the skills for data-driven decisions and leading in a data-centric world. 

Here's a table with a brief overview.

Aspect Details
Degree Type MBA or Masters in Data Science
Course Duration Typically 1-2 years
Education Mode Full-time, Part-time, Online (suitable for MBA in data science for working professionals)
Eligibility Bachelor's degree in any discipline; some programs may require work experience
Core Subjects Data Analytics, Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, Business Strategy, Big Data Management
Top Colleges in India Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), XLRI Jamshedpur, SP Jain Institute of Management and Research, Great Lakes Institute of Management
Average Tuition Fees Annually INR 1-15 Lakhs
Job Roles Data Scientist, Business Analyst, Data Engineer, Data Consultant
Average Salary The average salary ranges from INR 8 Lakhs per annum

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What is an MBA in Data Science?

An MBA in Data Science is a specialised program that merges the core principles of business administration with advanced data science techniques. This unique combination equips students with the skills needed to make data-driven decisions in a managerial or executive role. 

An MBA in Data Science provides not only the technical expertise to analyse and interpret large datasets but also the leadership and business acumen to apply these insights in a corporate setting.

Why Pursue an MBA in Data Science?

If you’re dreaming of pursuing an MBA in Data Science, this degree is not just a trend. It's a powerful career move. Here’s why you should consider it, especially if you're an Indian student.

Global Demand

Globally, the demand for data scientists has grown by 15% by 2029. In India, this demand is even more pronounced, with a 45% job requiring a degree in data science in 2024. Companies are actively seeking professionals who can turn data into actionable insights, making an MBA in Data Science highly valuable.

Enhanced Career Prospects

With an MBA in Data Science, you can expect attractive salary packages. The average starting salary for data science professionals in India starts from INR 8 Lakhs per annum. This figure highlights the high demand for skilled individuals in this field.

Growing Market

Data science is becoming integral to business operations across industries. According to a report by NASSCOM, the Indian data science market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to $16 million by 2025.

Approval Based on Your 12th Marks. No Co Applicant Required. Check Your Eligibility. 

Worried about how you will get admission? Fret not; here is all the information you would need to pursue your dream career.

MBA in Data Science: Eligibility And Admission Process

Earning your MBA in Data Science is an exciting first step towards a flourishing career. But before you dive headfirst into program applications, it's crucial to understand the eligibility criteria. 

Eligibility Criteria For MBA In Data Science

Criteria Details
Bachelor's Degree A bachelor's degree from a recognised university in any discipline.
Minimum Marks Minimum score of 50-55% in undergraduate studies; relaxations of 5% for reserved category students.
Entrance Exams Mandatory entrance exams like GMAT or CAT; some universities may have their own tests.
Work Experience (Optional) some programs prefer 2-5 years of work experience, especially in business or data fields.

Admission Process And Entrance Exams

1. Prepare for Entrance Exams

Study for exams like CAT, GMAT, or institution-specific tests.

2. Submit Application

Complete and submit application forms with all necessary details.

3. Write Personal Statement

Craft a compelling statement outlining your interests and career goals.

4. Gather Letters of Recommendation

Obtain 2-3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.

5. Prepare for Interview

Practise common interview questions and reflect on your experiences.

6. Final Admission and Enrolment

Accept the offer, pay initial fees, and submit the required documents.

Here’s a table summarising the typical entrance exam cut-offs for MBA in Data Science programs.

Entrance Exam

Estimated Cut-Offs

CAT

85-95 percentile

GMAT 

650-700+

XAT 

85-90 percentile

CMAT 

90+ percentile

SNAP 

85-90 percentile

NMAT 

200+ score

SPJAT 

Not revealed

Please note: These cut off can vary as per different colleges or institutions. So, you must check college websites. 

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Types Of Courses For MBA In Data Science

When pursuing an MBA in Data Science, you have the flexibility to choose a course format that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Here are the different types of courses available for an MBA in Data Science.

Mode of Study Ideal For Duration Features
Full-Time Those who can commit to full-time study. 1-2 years Immersive learning with in-person classes.
Ample networking opportunities with peers and faculty.
Part-Time Working professionals who need to balance work and studies. 2-3 years Evening or weekend classes.
Allows continuation of work while earning a degree.
Online Those requiring flexibility and cannot attend in-person classes. 1-2 years (flexible) Completed at your own pace.
Access to resources and virtual collaboration tools.
Distance Learning Self-paced learners who prefer independent study. Varies Independent study with provided materials.
It may include occasional in-person sessions or exams.
Allows you to study from anywhere.

MBA In Data Science: Subjects

Each semester is structured to build on your knowledge and skills progressively. Here’s a detailed look at the data science subjects you will encounter throughout your studies.

Semester Subjects
Semester 1 Introduction to Data Science
Business Analytics
Organisational Behaviour
Financial Accounting
Quantitative Methods for Business
Statistics for Business
Spreadsheet Modelling I
Semester 2 Machine Learning
Marketing Management
Operations Management
Data Visualisation
Managerial Economics
Human Resource Management
Semester 3 Big Data Technologies
Strategic Management
Predictive Analytics
Data Mining
Natural Language Processing
Deep Learning I
Advanced Machine Learning
Semester 4 Marketing Analytics
Supply Chain Analytics
Capstone Project
Electives (e.g., AI Ethics, Blockchain for Business, Data Privacy and Security)
Dissertation/Thesis

Next, there comes the most awaited area, where to find the best college for pursuing an MBA in data science. There are some top colleges mentioned below. 

Top Colleges To Study MBA In Data Science

Choosing the right college for your MBA in Data Science is crucial for your career success. According to the (NIRF), India has over 5,000 colleges offering specialised MBA programmes, including data science. Here’s a list of the top 10 colleges, along with their annual tuition fees.

S.No.

College Name

MBA in Data Science Course Fee Annually (INR)

1

Amity University Online

INR 4.50 Lakhs

2

Kirloskar Institute of Advanced Management Studies

INR 5.25 Lakhs

3

Symbiosis Centre for Information Technology, Pune

INR 12.20 Lakhs

4

KJ Somaiya Institute of Management

INR 16.29 Lakhs

5

Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

INR 24.00 Lakhs

6

Fore School of Management, Delhi

INR 15.98 Lakhs

7

Christ University

INR 2.75 Lakhs

8

IIM Calcutta

INR 4.00 Lakhs

9

MET Institute of Software Development and Research

INR 1.20 Lakhs

10

Goa Institute of Management

INR 18.07 Lakhs

MBA In Data Science: Career Scope

Pursuing a career in data science entails taking on roles with significant responsibilities, requiring superior analytical and data interpretation skills, along with proficiency in the latest technologies and tools. 

Below are some of the key data science job roles, along with their average salaries.

Job Roles Average Salary (INR)
Data Science Manager INR 21 Lakhs
Data Architect INR 19 Lakhs
Product Manager INR 17 Lakhs
Data Science Consultant INR 10 Lakhs
Data Engineer INR 8.38 Lakhs
Product Analyst INR 6.20 Lakhs
Business Intelligence Analyst INR 5.94 Lakhs
Operations Research Analyst INR 4.00 Lakhs
Clinical Data Analyst INR 3.50 Lakhs

Read about funding your MBA.

Top Recruiters

  1. Amazon
  2. IBM
  3. Deloitte
  4. Accenture
  5. Fractal Analytics
  6. Citrix
  7. LinkedIn
  8. Myntra
  9. MuSigma
  10. Dexlock
  11. Flipkart
  12. Rudder Analytics

MBA in Data Science: Skills Required

There are certain skills essential to be successful in data science job roles. Some of these skills are listed below.

1. Analytical Skills

Ability to interpret data and derive actionable insights.

2. Programming Proficiency

Familiarity with languages like Python, R, and SQL for data manipulation.

3. Statistical Knowledge

Understanding of statistical methods for data analysis.

4. Business Acumen

Ability to align data insights with strategic business goals.

5. Problem-Solving Abilities

Capability to tackle complex business challenges using data.

6. Communication Skills

Effectively conveying data findings to non-technical stakeholders.

7. Leadership Qualities

Skills to lead data teams and drive organisational change.

MBA In Data Science vs Data Analytics

When deciding between pursuing an MBA in Data Science or focusing on Data Analytics, it's essential to understand the key differences and which path aligns best with your career goals. 

Here’s a table with a straightforward comparison to help you make an informed choice.

Aspect MBA in Data Science MBA in Data Analytics
Focus Integrates business strategy with advanced data science for managerial roles. Concentrates on analysing data to solve specific business problems using statistical methods and programming.
Curriculum Includes business management, data science methodologies, and big data analytics. Focuses on statistical analysis, programming languages like Python and R, and data modelling.
Career Paths Leads to roles such as Data Science Manager or Chief Data Officer. Prepares for careers as Data Analysts or Data Engineers.
Industry Demand Sought after in finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and consulting. In demand across sectors requiring strong analytical skills and data interpretation.

Do you want to know about more IT courses in MBA? Here you go: How to Become an IT and Systems Manager With an MBA Degree in India.

So, whether you envision yourself as a Data Science Manager leading teams or a Data Analyst solving complex business problems, this degree equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel.

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FAQs About MBA In Data Science

What is an MBA or Masters in Data Science? 

An MBA in Data Science focuses on combining business management skills with advanced data analytics, preparing graduates for leadership roles. A Master's in Data Science typically focuses more on technical skills and is suited for individuals aiming to specialise in data analysis.

Can I pursue an MBA in Data Science as a working professional? 

Yes, many institutions offer part-time or online MBA programmes in Data Science specifically designed for working professionals. These programmes provide flexibility to balance work commitments with studies.

What are the key subjects covered in MBA in Data Science programmes? 

Subjects typically include data analytics, machine learning, business intelligence, big data management, data visualisation, and strategic management. These courses equip students with both technical and managerial skills.

Which are the top colleges offering Data Science MBA programmes in India? 

Top colleges include the Indian Institute of Management (IIMs), Indian School of Business (ISB), Symbiosis International University, Xavier School of Management (XLRI), and SP Jain Institute of Management and Research.

What are the career prospects after completing an MBA in Data Science? 

Graduates can pursue careers as Data Scientists, Data Analysts, Business Analysts, Data Engineers, Data Architects, and Data Science Managers across various industries such as Finance, Healthcare, E-commerce, and Consulting.

How important is work experience for admission to MBA in Data Science programmes? 

While work experience is often preferred, especially for executive MBA programmes, it is not always mandatory. Admissions criteria vary by institution, with some programmes offering waivers based on academic excellence or relevant certifications.

What are the average tuition fees for MBA in Data Science programmes in India? 

Tuition fees vary widely depending on the institution and programme type (full-time, part-time, online). On average, tuition fees range from INR 5 lakhs to over INR 20 lakhs for the entire duration of the programme.

How can an MBA in Data Science subjects benefit my career progression? 

An MBA in Data Science subjects enhances your ability to lead data-driven initiatives, make informed business decisions, and effectively manage teams. It also opens doors to higher-paying roles and positions of leadership within organisations.

What are the entrance exams required for admission to MBA in Data Science programmes? 

Common entrance exams include CAT (Common Admission Test), XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test), GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), and specific exams conducted by individual institutions.

How competitive is the job market for MBA in Data Science graduates? 

The job market is competitive but growing rapidly, with increasing demand for professionals skilled in data analysis and strategic management. Graduates with relevant experience and strong technical skills are highly in demand. 

What skills will I develop during an MBA in Data Science programme? 

You will develop skills in data analysis, statistical modelling, machine learning, business strategy, project management, and communication. These skills are essential for leveraging data to drive business outcomes.

How can I fund my MBA in Data Science education? 

Propelld provides options for scholarships, education loans, employer sponsorships, and personal savings. Many institutions also offer financial aid packages and payment plans to assist students in managing tuition costs.

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