May 05, 2026  
2026-2027 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Western Washington University Catalog

Business Administration — Business Analytics Concentration, BA

Location(s): WWU - Bellingham


Introduction

The Business Administration – Business Analytics Concentration provides students with the knowledge and expertise needed to transform complex data into valuable insights that drive strategic decision-making. Through this program, students will unlock the full potential of statistical tools and analytical methods to extract valuable insights from complex data, master the application of cutting-edge models, and interpret results to make informed decisions. Additionally, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with real-world experience to prepare them for the challenges of the modern business environment.

Learning Competency Goals

  • Demonstrate breadth of business knowledge
  • Produce quality business documents
  • Analyze problems using an ethical perspective
  • Analyze the legal implications of business decisions
  • Critically analyze problems and defend resolutions
  • Solve business problems using quantitative techniques
  • Apply a global perspective in conducting business
  • Identify and analyze social consequences of business activities
  • Understand the importance of environmental sustainability

Why Consider a Business Analytics Concentration in Business Administration Major?

In today’s fast-paced and data-driven business landscape, there is a strong demand for skilled business analysts as organizations across industries harness the power of data to fuel innovation and stay competitive. As businesses continue to prioritize data-driven approaches to enhance efficiency and growth, pursuing a career in Business Analytics is an essential step for anyone looking to thrive in this dynamic and high-demand field.

Student Resources

Department website: Decision Sciences

Contact information: Sherri Nelson, Department Manager, Parks Hall 343, 360-650-3275, OfficeDSCI@wwu.edu

Department advising: Visit the Advising section of the Decision Sciences website.

Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.

Career Services Center: Connect major to a career

Sample careers: Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Analyst, Operations Research Analyst, Marketing Analyst, Financial Analyst, Supply Chain Analyst, AI & Machine Learning Consultant

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Category of Major : Major with minimum requirements

Open majors can be declared by new and continuing students in good standing without additional requirements. All students are eligible for Direct Admission to Major at the time of admission to the university, subject to space availability.

Students who began their studies at WWU before the 2026-2027 academic year may declare their major by completing the Student Academic Declaration & Change Form and meeting the major’s retention requirements (if applicable).

Retention Standards

To remain in good standing, students must meet the following academic requirements:

  • Maintain a minimum WWU cumulative GPA of 2.50.
    • Students whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.50 will receive an academic warning and have one quarter to raise their GPA to 2.50 or higher.
    • Students whose cumulative GPA remains below 2.50 for two or more consecutive quarters will be dropped from CBE and will not be readmitted until their cumulative WWU GPA is 2.50 or higher.
  • Students whose cumulative GPA fall below 2.00 will be dismissed immediately from CBE and will not be readmitted or permitted to register for CBE major restricted courses until their cumulative WWU GPA is 2.50 or higher.

Transfer students admitted without a WWU GPA (i.e., no graded coursework at WWU at the time of admission) are admitted to both WWU and CBE. They must maintain the GPA described in the retention standards above to remain in good standing.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.

Requirements (88-92 credits)


Foundation Courses (30 credits)


Advanced Core Courses (4-8 credits)


Additional Requirements


  • One Communication Focus (CF) course and three Writing Proficiency (WP) points from approved upper-division CBE courses