Dominican University of California MS in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence

Dominican University of California offers a Master of Science in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (MSBA-AI) through the Barowsky School of Business. The 36-unit, STEM-designated program combines business analytics with machine learning, generative AI, cloud deployment, programming, and applied analytics. Students complete the hybrid degree in 12 months.

Quick Facts

SchoolDominican University of California
LocationSan Rafael, California
DegreeMS in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
Units36
FormatHybrid
Tuition$44,580 tuition; $45,594 with listed 2026-27 fees
Length12 months
AI / ML FocusMachine learning, generative AI, deep learning, NLP, AI deployment, and AI-enabled analytics

Curriculum

The 2026-27 academic catalog lists twelve required 3-unit courses. The curriculum covers the full analytics workflow, from programming and data management through machine learning, AI deployment, visualization, optimization, and a final practicum.

  • MSBA 5500 Applied Data Analysis
  • MSBA 5502 Data Visualization and Storytelling
  • MSBA 5503 Data Management for Business Analytics
  • MSBA 5504 Advanced Data Analysis
  • MSBA 5507 Ethics, Risk Management, and Data Security
  • MSBA 5508 Marketing Analytics
  • MSBA 5509 Optimization for Business Analytics
  • MSBA 5511 Finance Analytics
  • MSBA 5520 Programming for Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence
  • MSBA 5525 Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence for Business
  • MSBA 5526 Cloud Computing & Artificial Intelligence Deployment
  • MSBA 5529 Business Analytics & Artificial Intelligence Practicum

Dominican says students use tools such as Python, R, SQL, SAS, and Tableau. AI topics integrated across the program include machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, generative AI, and AI-enabled decision support.

Credits and Program Length

The MSBA-AI requires 36 units and is structured as a 12-month full-time program. Students take two courses during each seven-week term. The program includes twelve 3-unit courses, including the practicum.

Tuition and Cost

For 2026-27, Dominican’s MSBA-AI tuition page lists $44,580 in total tuition for 36 units. The university lists another $1,014 in campus, technology, and graduate activity fees, bringing the published program cost to $45,594 before living expenses and other personal costs.

The first two 12-unit terms use a tuition rate of $1,226 per unit. The 12-unit summer term is listed at $1,263 per unit. Dominican also publishes merit scholarships equal to 10%, 20%, or 30% of tuition for qualifying students based on GPA.

Admissions

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a regionally accredited institution. Dominican states that prior study in computer science, mathematics, or statistics is not required. The program admissions information lists these application materials:

  • Official transcripts from each college or university attended
  • Resume
  • One-page statement of purpose or intent
  • One academic or professional recommendation letter, or an interview with the dean
  • Additional requirements for international applicants

The program begins in the fall. Dominican lists a July 1 fall priority deadline.

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Focus

This program is a strong fit for MastersInMachineLearning.org because AI is built into the degree rather than offered as a single elective. The required curriculum includes Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence for Business, Programming for Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence, and Cloud Computing & Artificial Intelligence Deployment. The catalog also states that deep learning, natural language processing, generative AI, and AI-enabled decision support appear across multiple courses.

The emphasis is applied and business-focused. Students learn how to use AI and analytics to support business decisions rather than study machine learning mainly from a computer science or research perspective.

Hybrid Format

Dominican classifies the MSBA-AI as hybrid. The university lists classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and every other Saturday. This is not a fully online degree, so students should plan for regular participation in the San Rafael program.

Practicum and Applied Learning

The 36-unit curriculum ends with the required Business Analytics & Artificial Intelligence Practicum. The program emphasizes hands-on work with analytics and AI tools, which gives students a chance to apply technical methods to business problems.

Who Is This Program Best For?

Dominican’s MSBA-AI is best for students who want practical AI and machine learning skills in a business analytics setting. It can work well for recent graduates and working professionals who want roles in data analytics, business analytics, finance, marketing, operations, or AI-enabled decision support. It is also accessible to applicants without a formal computer science background.

Bottom Line

Dominican University of California offers a focused, one-year path into business analytics and applied AI. The program stands out for its required machine learning and AI coursework, 36-unit structure, practicum, and clear 12-month schedule. The main limitation for students seeking flexibility is the hybrid format, which requires participation in the San Rafael-based program. For students who want an accelerated business-oriented AI degree, it is a strong fit.