Welcome to your MS in Business Data Analytics (MSBDA) program!
You’re on the road to a great future as a business data analysis professional. The field is growing rapidly, and you’re stepping in at exactly the right time to shape your path forward.
This page is your hub for essential information and tools to help you succeed in the MSBDA program. Here, program staff share key updates, important academic dates, curated resources, and event opportunities that can elevate your learning experience. The page is updated regularly, so we encourage you to check back often.
Semester Important Dates
Please review the dates for your courses listed below. One critical milestone to note is the Census Date—this is the deadline to drop a course without it appearing on your transcript.
Because this is a cohort-based program, dropping a course should be a last resort, reserved for unavoidable and significant circumstances.
For a complete list of current semester dates, session calendars, and more, visit the Information for Enrolled Students page.
Course and Census Dates for the Academic Year 2025-2026 cohort
| Course | Schedule | Census |
|---|---|---|
| BDA 6010: Business Systems and Processes | Aug. 25-Oct. 10 (7 weeks) | SEPTEMBER 10 |
| BDA 6020: Intro to Data Analysis for Business | Oct. 20-Dec. 5 (7 weeks) | NOVEMBER 4 |
| BDA 6030: Scripting for Business and Data Analytics | Aug. 25-Dec. 13 (15 weeks) | SEPTEMBER 22 |
| Course | Schedule | Census |
|---|---|---|
| BDA 6120: Business and Data Analytics I | Jan. 20-Mar. 10 (7 weeks) | FEBRUARY 4 |
| BDA 6130: Database for Business Applications | Jan. 20-Mar. 10 (7 weeks) | FEBRUARY 4 |
| BDA 6140: Business and Data Analytics II | Mar. 23-May 8 (7 weeks) | APRIL 8 |
| BDA 6110: Data Visualization | Mar. 23-May 8 (7 weeks) | APRIL 8 |
| Course | Schedule | Census |
|---|---|---|
| BDA 6210: Business and Data Analytics III | June 1-July 6 (5 weeks) | JUNE 8 |
| BDA 6220: Contemporary Issues in Business and Data Analytics | July 8-August 12 (5 weeks) | JULY 15 |
| BDA 6830: Capstone | June 2-August 12 (10 weeks) | JUNE 17 |
Program Policies, Procedures, and University Resources
Registration
Your Program Specialist conducts registration approximately one month before the start of each future semester. Students are automatically registered in all program courses.
These Class Change, Class Drop, and Refund Policies will help you plan.
Class Change Fee:
$25. This fee is applied to the student account for all course drops and changes made after registration.
Refund Policy:
A 100% refund, less an administrative fee of $25, will be provided if the course is dropped before the start date.
A 65% refund, less an administrative fee of $25, will be provided if the course is dropped on or before the census date.
No refund after the census date.
Academic Advising
If you need to discuss your schedule or your progress in the program, contact your Program Director, Dr. Essia Hamouda at essia.hamouda@csusb.edu.
Your Program Director will prepare a Program Plan for you. This document is submitted to the Registrar and used at the time of your graduation check to ensure you have completed all coursework to be eligible for graduation. You will also receive information about advancing to candidacy.
Program Faculty
Your professors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their classrooms. The more you interact with your professors, the deeper your learning will be. Reach out when you have course content questions, but also to get to know them. As you progress through your program, your professors will become allies in learning, as well as members of your professional network. Check out their bios on the Faculty page, linked at the blue button to the right.
Upcoming Events
Consider attending on-campus/virtual events that will enhance your learning experience. You can find many at the CSUSB Events page. https://www.csusb.edu/events . Also, check with the Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration for more related events.
Success in Online Degree Programs
CSUSB is committed to the highest quality education. We have resources to help you succeed in your online program.
In addition to the tools you'll use in your classes, CSUSB offers access to some basic software tools. Navigate to the ITS office for resources https://www.csusb.edu/its/software/student-software
Online learning can feel isolating, but connection makes all the difference. Use Canvas or your favorite app to meet with classmates—discuss lectures, review notes, and tackle group work together.
Host virtual study sessions (snacks and pets encouraged!) and keep communication flowing.
Have questions? Reach out to your instructors early—getting help quickly keeps you on track.
Remember: you get out of it what you put into it.
We're Here to Support You
Our team is committed to helping you achieve academic, financial, and personal success. Whether you’re balancing life and school or navigating enrollment steps, we’re just a message away.
Your Support Team
🎓 Student Advisor – Maggie Garcia
For help with program progress, life/school balance, and personal challenges.
📋 Senior Program Specialist – LeSondra M. Jones
Your go-to for registration, payments, payment plans, program news, and general questions.
💰 Financial Aid Liaison – Nicolette Cusino
Assistance with FAFSA, financial aid questions, and alternative loan options.
Have Questions? Contact Us — We’re here to help you stay on track and thrive in the program. msbdaonline@csusb.edu
Master of Science in Business Data Analytics
Apply Now
Fees and Financing
Course Schedule and Dates
Program Flyer
Join our Interest List
Information Sessions
Schedule an appointment with a Student Advisor via Zoom
Schedule an appointment with a Student Advisor via Phone
Program and Curriculum Overview
Admission Requirements
Faculty
Information for Enrolled Students
Make a Payment
FAQs
