Business analytics is a relatively new subfield of data science that integrates techniques and concepts from the fields of computer science, statistics, and economics. Business analytics students receive substantial training in economic theory and then use computer science and statistical methods to formulate business strategy. The foundation in economic theory is what makes the business analytics degree different from a data science degree.<br><br>In order for business analysts to be effective, they must understand the raw materials of data science in their field, namely, accounting and financial data. In fact, understanding accounting and financial data distinguishes business analytics from other fields of data science, such a bioinformatics.<br><br>For this reason, students who select the Business Analytics BSBA degree will take the same common, primary, and secondary core classes as all other BSBA majors in the College of Business. For the 27 credit hours (9 courses) that are unique to the Business Analytics BSBA degree, 7 of the 9 courses are existing economics courses that emphasize the economic theories and skills that will make the students competitive in the field of business analytics.