MSADSB Program Requirements
The Portland State MSADSB is open to professionals and recent graduates with business and non-business degrees.
Course Prerequisites
Applicants will need to show a B or better in a statistics course or be prepared to complete additional preparation before the start of the program.
MSADSB Application Requirements
- Meet PSU minimum admission requirements
- Professional resume
- Unofficial transcripts/mark sheets from any institution where a bachelor's degree was awarded and any institution where graduate-level credits were completed . Upon admission, applicants will be required to provide official transcripts from these institutions. Visit the PSU Admissions website for detailed transcript requirements.
- Essay questions (3 written and 1 video): Essays are your opportunity to tell us who you are beyond your GPAs and resume. Use this opportunity to provide us with a better understanding of your personal journey, unique background and goals associated with the program.
- Video essay (1): Applicants are required to record a short video of themselves answering the following question - "Introduce yourself and tell us your story. Where are you in your career right now and why is this the right program for you?" The application system provides detailed guidance on how to complete this process. Reading your response is strongly discouraged.
- Written essays (3):
- 250 words maximum per essay question
- Answers to all three questions are required
- See questions below
- 3.0 or better in undergraduate statistics courses preferred. Completion of a primer may be required for applicants who need additional preparation.
- Contact information for two or more references (professional references preferred). Forms will be emailed to these contacts and we must receive at least one submission before applications are reviewed.
- $67 application fee - Attend an Information Session to waive this.
Essay Questions
- Introduce yourself and tell us your story. Where are you in your career right now and why is MSADSB the right program for you? (video, 3 minute maximum)
- Which classes in the MSADSB curriculum are you most interested in and why? (written, 250 word maximum)
- Identify your short-term and long-term career objectives, your past experience in data analysis and/or information technology, and how Portland State's MSADSB will contribute to those goals. (written, 250 word maximum)
- A graduate degree is a large commitment and investment in your future. Please describe what steps you have taken financially, personally and academically to ensure your success in the program. (written, 250 word maximum)
AI Usage Policy for Graduate Business Admissions
The admissions team is interested in your authentic voice which reflects your academic, professional, and personal experiences and goals. We engage in a holistic review process when evaluating application materials because we want to understand what has inspired you to commit to the graduate program you're applying to. We also want to learn how your experiences will complement the experiences of other members in the cohort you may join.
Given this context, we encourage applicants to submit work that reflects their own voice and perspective. While there may be appropriate uses for AI, such as outlining ideas or checking grammar, essays must be written in your own words. AI-generated content should not replace your personal writing or storytelling. Submissions that rely heavily on AI-generated content or lack meaningful personal detail may affect the admissions decision.
Additionally, because scholarships awarded by The School of Business are based on a holistic review of academic and personal achievements, including your written materials, excessive use of AI may also affect scholarship eligibility.
This policy aligns with the university’s academic integrity standards.
If you have questions about using AI in your application materials, please contact our Recruitment Advising or Admissions Team.
Additional International Student Requirements
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