The job outlook for data analysts is stronger than ever, with data analyst master’s jobs in high demand across industries. A World Economic Forum survey of executives determined that the fastest-growing job roles by 2030 include big data specialists, financial technology engineers, AI and machine learning specialists, and software and applications developers.
This article explores the most accessible and valuable roles for professionals with a Master of Science in Applied Analytics (MSAA), like the one offered through Woods College of Advancing Studies at Boston College. Designed in collaboration with industry leaders across finance, healthcare, insurance, and the public sector, BC’s program is tailored to meet evolving market demands.
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What Makes a Master’s in Analytics a Smart Career Move
A graduate degree can open doors to advanced roles beyond entry-level. Boston College’s MSAA program is designed to do just that. It:
- Immerses students in real-world projects
- Teaches in-demand tools like Python, SQL, and Tableau
- Strengthens business communication skills
- Helps build career-ready portfolios
- Provides dedicated hiring support
“The courses are structured in a way that projects use real data … they prepare us to deal with real-time dataset problems,” observes Aritra Ray, MSAA/MSAE ’25. “That is, in my opinion, the biggest part of a data analyst’s job.”
Top Careers for Master’s-Level Data Analysts
Let’s take a closer look at the most in-demand roles in data analytics.
Data Analyst
Data analysts collect, interpret, and present data to drive informed decisions. They identify trends and provide actionable insights across industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, and marketing.
A Master of Science in Applied Analytics equips aspiring analysts with advanced technical skills—such as programming, statistical modeling, and data visualization—while also strengthening business acumen and communication. The degree prepares professionals to move beyond entry-level roles and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.
Business Intelligence Analyst
Business intelligence analysts turn complex data into clear, actionable insights that help organizations improve performance and strategy. They gather and clean data, run queries, analyze trends, and present findings to decision-makers using tools like SQL, Tableau, and Excel.
A Master of Science in Applied Analytics provides the technical expertise and business context needed for this role. The degree prepares professionals to take on more strategic responsibilities and advance into leadership positions in data-driven organizations.
Marketing Analyst
Marketing analysts use data to evaluate consumer behavior, market trends, and campaign performance, helping businesses make informed decisions about products and pricing. They apply statistical techniques and tools like Excel, SQL, and data visualization software to uncover insights that drive marketing strategy.
A Master of Science in Applied Analytics enhances these capabilities with advanced training in data analysis, machine learning, and business communication, preparing professionals to move into senior roles and lead data-driven marketing initiatives across industries.
Analytics Consultant
Analytics consultants help organizations solve complex problems by analyzing data and advising on strategy. They assess business processes and design data models to deliver insights that drive efficiency and growth. Often working across industries or as part of consulting firms, they translate technical findings into actionable recommendations for clients.
A Master of Science in Applied Analytics equips professionals with advanced skills in data science, predictive modeling, and business communication—preparing them to lead high-impact projects and advance into senior consulting or leadership roles.
Operations Analyst
Operations analysts use data to identify inefficiencies, evaluate processes, and improve organizational performance. They apply statistical models and analytical tools to forecast outcomes and recommend solutions across areas like supply chain, logistics, and quality control.
A Master of Science in Applied Analytics strengthens these capabilities with advanced training that prepares professionals to tackle complex operational challenges.
The 2025 Job Outlook for Data Analysts
Data analysts are among the fastest-growing professions, according to the World Economic Forum. The top roles expected to see the highest growth relative to current employment through 2030 include:
- Big data specialists
- Fintech engineers
- AI and machine learning specialists
- Software and applications developers
This surge will be driven by increased AI integration, cross-functional decision-making, and the growing use of analytics across industries. The WEF 2025 Future of Jobs Report notes that “these trends are not only seen as responsible for the growth of these three fastest-growing skills, but also for the rising importance of analytical thinking and systems thinking.”
These developments make it clear that analytics isn’t a niche skill—it’s foundational across careers. Employers are becoming less interested in manual dexterity, endurance, and precision, instead placing a strong emphasis on analytical thinking. They are also shifting hiring priorities toward creativity, adaptability, and continuous learning.
How Boston College Prepares You to Stand Out
BC’s MSAA curriculum combines technical training and business acumen. Courses include:
- AI/ML Software Tools and Platforms
- AI Algorithms I / Big Data Econometrics
- Data Analysis
- Data Visualization for Communication
- Machine Learning Product Management
- Mathematical Models for Machine Learning I
- Natural Language Processing
- Operations Research
- Predictive Analytics / Forecasting
- Software Tools for Data Analysis
Faculty bring deep industry experience to the classroom. Program Director Aleksander (Sasha) Tomic, associate dean of Strategy, Innovation and Technology, is an economist and frequent commentator on global economic trends. He has led multinational projects in business cycle forecasting and macroeconometrics.
Many instructors are active practitioners who provide insight into industry trends. Nick Wofford, MSAA ’24, explains that most instructors “are practitioners; they have a lot of very good advice and relevant information about where the industry is going.”
Students also complete hands-on capstone projects, building full-scale analytics solutions to real business or policy challenges. The program’s advisory board—featuring leaders from Google, Fidelity, Liberty Mutual, CVS, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston—offers students access to mentorship and networking opportunities.
Housed in BC’s Woods College of Advancing Studies, the MSAA program supports working professionals with flexible full- and part-time options, available online or on-campus. Students benefit from one-on-one academic advising, personalized career coaching, and employer recruitment events, making the program an ideal choice for those looking to advance in the growing field of data analytics.
What’s Next: Take the Next Step with BC’s MSAA
In an era of skyrocketing demand for skilled data professionals, BC’s MSAA program prepares graduates to land rewarding jobs in an exciting, expanding field. Backed by an advisory board of industry leaders, the program is designed to prepare the next generation of analytics experts for impactful careers.
Ready to launch or advance your career in analytics? Begin your journey by connecting with an enrollment advisor or starting an application.