MBA in Data Science: Course Details, Eligibility, Admission, Fees

GMU

Updated on - Dec 2, 2023

MBA in Data Science is a two-year advanced academic program that integrates business administration principles with data analysis, statistical modeling, and technology skills. MBA Data Science syllabus equips students to analyze intricate data sets, extract valuable insights, and translate them into strategic decisions for businesses and organizations.

The eligibility criteria for MBA in Data Science program require candidates to possess a bachelor's degree. General category applicants need a minimum aggregate score of 50-55%, while those in reserved categories require a minimum of 45%. Institutions consider both merit-based evaluation and cut-off scores from popular entrance exams like CAT, MAT, and XAT. MBA in India typically incurs fees ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 315 LPA.

About MBA in Data Science

MBA in Data Science or Master of Business Administration in Data Science. The course falls under the umbrella of MBA courses. It is a combination of management and data science through which candidates are equipped with knowledge and theoretical skills involved in both domains.

The MBA in Data Science curriculum typically covers subjects like statistics, machine learning, data visualization, business analytics, and management principles. Students gain proficiency in both business and data science domains, preparing them for roles that require data-driven decision-making and leadership. The average MBA Data Science salary ranges from INR 9-24 LPA.

Also, Check: How to Become a Data Scientist

MBA in Data Science Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the MBA in Data Science program encompass specific prerequisites that candidates need to fulfil before gaining admission. In India, the essential requisites for enrolling in an MBA in Data Science course are as follows:

• Candidate should have a bachelor's degree such as BBA, BTech, etc.,  from a recognized university with an aggregate score ranging from 50% to 55%. For candidates belonging to the SC/ST/OBC categories, a relaxation of 5% is usually applicable. Clearing entrance exams like CAT, XAT, MAT, etc., is an integral part of the admission process.
• Colleges like IIM Bangalore require a candidate to score 95-99 percentile in CAT to be eligible for further process.
• College may also have an additional requirement for candidates to have a minimum of 2 years of work experience.
• There is no upper age limit to enrol in the course.

Why Choose an MBA in Data Science?

MBA in Data Science is a professional course that opens many job opportunities and lucrative salary packages. In the list given below are some of the points that highlight why one should pursue the course:

• According to Nasscom and Zynga, from 2018 to 2025, the number of data science jobs in India is expected to grow from 2,720 to 16,500.
• The demand for data scientists globally is expected to rise by 200%.
• The scope of data science and its management has increased in recent years, especially in banking, cyber security, and real estate.
• The contribution of India to job markets in the field of data science has been 11.6% in 2022.

Also, Read: Why MBA? Top Reasons to Pursue an MBA

MBA in Data Science Admission 2023

MBA Data Science admissions follow a consistent pattern across multiple universities in the country. There is no direct admission offered by colleges for this course. The admission process can be outlined through the following steps:

• Step 1: Candidates need to satisfy the minimum qualifying criteria established by the respective college or university. 
• Step 2: Meeting the entrance exam cut-offs set by various colleges is a crucial prerequisite for applicants.
• Step 3: Each college requires the candidate to complete an application form, which is available both online and offline.
• Step 4: After assessing candidate applications, colleges compile a list of shortlisted candidates for Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) sessions.
• Step 5: After the final merit list is issued, the candidate must complete the document verification and pay the fees.

Read More on MBA Admission Process

MBA in Data Science Entrance Exams

MBA in Data Science entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, XAT, etc., are conducted to determine candidates' eligibility for further admission process. Below listed are some entrance exams conducted for MBA Data Science admission:

Top MBA Data Science Colleges in India with Fee Details

The MBA in Data Science course is offered by top B-Schools in India such as IIM Bangalore, NMIMS, SCHMRD Pune, etc.  The average fee for an MBA in Data Science course is in the range of INR 1-15 LPA. Here are some of the best colleges offering MBA in Data Science in India along with the average fees:

Read More: Top MBA Data Science Colleges in India

City-Wise Top MBA Data Science Colleges

Types of MBA in Data Science Courses

MBA in Data Science programs come in various formats, including part-time, distance education, and online options, catering to different preferences and schedules. Detailed below in the table is an overview of the different types of MBA in Data Science categories that cater to the various needs of the students:

MBA in Data Science Distance Education

MBA in Data Science distance education provides flexible learning by allowing students to gain advanced data and business skills remotely. Mentioned below are details regarding the distance MBA in Data Science course:

• Only IGNOU offers the MBA in Data Science as a distance education program. The course is offered with the combination of two disciplines - data science and analytics.
• The course lasts between 2 and 5 years. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and pass the OPENMAT.
• The average total course fee is INR 2.12 Lakh.

Online MBA in Data Science

The online MBA in Data Science course is designed for candidates who lack the time or ability to attend a traditional MBA Data Science program. The eligibility requirements are the same as those for a standard MBA. Below mentioned are details regarding the online MBA Data Science course:

• The course can be pursued from colleges like LPU, Amity University Online, Jain Online University, etc.
• The average course fees ranges between INR 50,000-2 LPA.
• The students get the opportunity to get hired by top companies like Accenture, Deloitte, IBM, etc.

MBA in Data Science Syllabus and Subjects

MBA in Data Science subjects focus on equipping students with the foundation to advance knowledge in the fields of data learning, data languages, and its application in the business field. The curriculum encompasses fundamental core courses and a range of electives, ensuring a balanced foundation and specialized proficiency.

Below is a general outline of the MBA in Data Science Syllabus followed commonly by most institutions:

Read More: MBA Data Science Syllabus and Subjects

MBA Data Science vs MBA in Data Analytics

An MBA in Data Analytics is focused on the application of analytics techniques, while an MBA in Data Science provides a broader understanding of data science concepts and methodologies. The table below compares MBA in Data Science and Data Analytics programs.

Read More: MBA in Data Analytics

Courses After MBA in Data Science 

After completing an MBA in Data Science, there are various postgraduate study pathways available for graduate students to gain a deeper understanding of the subject and enhance their career prospects. Here are some popular higher education options for students who have completed an MBA in Data Science:

• Ph.D: Pursuing a Doctorate in Data Science or a related field allows students to delve into advanced research and contribute to the academic and practical aspects of data science.
• Executive MBA: For professionals aiming to blend their data science knowledge with business acumen, an Executive MBA program offers a strategic perspective on applying data science in real-world business scenarios.
• Industry-Specific Master's Programs: Some students may choose to pursue master's programs tailored to specific industries, such as healthcare, finance, or marketing, where data science plays a critical role.

Salary after MBA in Data Science 

In India, graduates of the MBA in Data Science earn an average salary of INR 9.20 LPA (Source: Ambition Box). The graduate after having five years of work experience can earn up to INR 24 LPA. The average salary packages offered to graduates of MBA in Data Science are shown in the table below as per the job roles:

Career Options After MBA in Data Science 

The business technology industry in India is expanding its MBA in Data Science career prospects due to an increase in research-oriented business decision-making by companies. The graduates get opportunities to work in top private and public organizations like Accenture, IBM, BHEL, etc.  The table below contains top job roles, recruiters along with their average salary offered to graduates:

Read More: MBA in Data Science Career Scope

Skills to Excel as an MBA in Data Science Graduate

To be successful in their jobs, students pursuing an MBA in Data Science must have a blend of theoretical and practical abilities. The following skills are essential to earn the finest MBA in Data Science.

• Communication Skills: Effectively convey complex insights to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Analyse intricate business challenges and develop data-driven solutions.
• Automation Skills: Automate routine tasks using data-driven workflows and tools.
• Python: Harness the power of Python programming for data manipulation and analysis.
• SQL: Navigate and query databases to extract valuable information.
• Network Management: Understand network structures to optimize data flow and analysis.
• Leadership Ability: Lead teams in implementing data-driven strategies and projects.
• Time Management: Efficiently balance data analysis tasks with project deadlines and priorities.

Top MBA in Data Science Colleges

SRM University

Kanchipuram,Tamil Nadu

SIU Pune

Pune,Maharashtra

Symbiosis Pune (SCIT)

Pune,Maharashtra

Krea University

Chittoor,Andhra Pradesh

Regional College Of Management Bangalore

Bangalore,Karnataka

IFMR Graduate school of Business

Chennai,Tamil Nadu

Jain Deemed-to-be University - Online Campus

Bangalore,Karnataka

Amity University Online

Noida,Uttar Pradesh

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Top Management Entrance Exams

CAT

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• Syllabus

MAT

Exam Date: May 19, 2024

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NMAT

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GMAT

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JEMAT

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CMAT

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IBSAT

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IMUCET

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MBA in Data Science Fee Structure

See Various MBA in Data Science Colleges in India