Program Overview
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program at the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics equips graduates with expertise in data analytics and quantitative decision-making. The program emphasizes theoretical and practical skills in data management, modeling, and optimization, preparing students to solve complex business problems effectively. Graduates are highly sought after by organizations seeking individuals with strong analytical capabilities to drive data-informed decision-making. The program offers a STEM designation and an accelerated master's option for qualified undergraduate students.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program, offered by the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics, equips graduates with the expertise to excel in data analytics and quantitative decision-making roles within modern organizations. The program emphasizes the development of both theoretical and practical skills in data management, modeling, and optimization, empowering students to solve complex business problems effectively. Graduates of the MSBA program are highly sought after by organizations seeking individuals with strong analytical capabilities to drive data-informed decision-making.
Objectives:
The MSBA program aims to: Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and techniques of business analytics, including data management, statistical analysis, machine learning, and optimization. Develop students' proficiency in using industry-standard software and tools for data analysis and modeling. Foster students' ability to apply analytical techniques to solve real-world business problems and make data-driven decisions. Enhance students' communication and presentation skills to effectively convey insights and recommendations to stakeholders.
Program Description:
The MSBA program requires students to complete 12 courses (36 credit hours), including 10 core courses and 2 electives. The core courses provide a solid foundation in the core areas of business analytics, while the elective courses allow students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career aspirations.
Outline:
Core Courses:
DS 801 Business Intelligence:
Introduces students to the concepts and techniques of business intelligence, including data integration, data warehousing, and data visualization.
DS 802 Probability and Simulation:
Provides a foundation in the principles of probability and simulation, with applications to business decision-making.
DS 803 Fundamentals of Statistical Analysis:
Covers the fundamental concepts and techniques of statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis.
DS 804 Exploration and Communication of Data:
Focuses on the techniques for exploring, visualizing, and communicating data effectively.
DS 805 Statistical Learning:
Introduces students to the principles and techniques of statistical learning, including supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms.
DS 806 Optimization Methods I:
Covers the fundamental concepts and techniques of optimization, with applications to business decision-making.
DS 807 Modeling Unstructured Data:
Introduces students to the techniques for analyzing and modeling unstructured data, such as text and social media data.
DS 808 Optimization Methods II:
Provides advanced topics in optimization, including nonlinear programming and integer programming.
DS 809 Time Series Analysis:
Covers the techniques for analyzing and forecasting time series data, with applications in business and finance.
DS 810 Big Data and AI: Strategy and Analytics (Capstone):
Capstone course that integrates the concepts and techniques learned throughout the program, with a focus on big data and artificial intelligence applications in business.
Elective Courses (select 2):
Students can choose 2 elective courses from the following list, subject to availability and with the approval of the program director:
- ADMN 827 Hospitality Operations & Financial Metrics
- ADMN 829 Corporate Financial Strategy
- ADMN 830 Investments
- ADMN 834 Private Equity/Venture Capital
- ADMN 846 International Financial Management
- ADMN 852 Marketing Research
- ADMN 863 Marketing Analytics
- ADMN 864 New Product Development
- ADMN 898 Topics (Digital Marketing)
- ADMN 898 Topics (Applied Financial Modeling and Analytics)
- ADMN 898 Topics (Big Data in Finance)
- ADMN 898 Topics (Project Management)
- ADMN 912 Managing Yourself & Leading Others
- ADMN 919 Accounting/Financial Reporting, Budgeting, and Analysis
- ADMN 926 Leveraging Technology for Competitive Advantage
- ADMN 930 Financial Management/Raising and Investing Money
- ADMN 940 Managing Operations
- ADMN 960 Marketing/Building Customer Value
- ADMN 970 Economics of Competition
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students' performance in the MSBA program is assessed through various methods, including: Coursework: Students' understanding of the course material is evaluated through assignments, quizzes, exams, and projects. Capstone Project: The capstone course culminates in a project that demonstrates students' ability to apply the concepts and techniques learned throughout the program to a real-world business problem. Presentations: Students are required to give presentations throughout the program to showcase their analytical skills and communication abilities.
Assessment Criteria:
Students' work is evaluated based on the following criteria: Accuracy and rigor of analysis Depth of understanding of concepts Application of knowledge to practical problems Clarity and effectiveness of communication
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The MSBA program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to the diverse learning styles of students. These methods include: Lectures: Facilitate the delivery of foundational concepts and frameworks. Case Studies: Provide real-world examples and scenarios to illustrate the application of analytical techniques. Group Projects: Encourage collaboration and foster teamwork skills. Simulations and Role-Playing: Create immersive experiences to enhance students' understanding of complex business situations.
Faculty:
The MSBA program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and consulting in the field of business analytics. The faculty bring their expertise and industry knowledge to the classroom, ensuring that students benefit from the latest advancements and best practices in the field.
Unique Approaches:
STEM Designation:
The MSBA program is designated as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This designation recognizes the program's rigorous curriculum and its alignment with high-demand fields in the global workforce.
Accelerated Master's Option:
The MSBA program offers an accelerated option that allows qualified UNH undergraduate students to begin graduate study while completing their bachelor's degree. This option enables students to save time and maximize their academic investment.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the MSBA program are well-prepared for careers in various industries and functional areas where data analysis and decision-making are essential. Potential career paths include: Business Analytics & Optimization Consultant Business Case Modeling Analyst/Consultant Business Intelligence Analyst Decision Science Analyst Analyst & Planner (Six Sigma) Internal Quantitative Marketing Strategy Consultant Manager of Modeling and Analytics Pricing & Revenue Optimization Analyst Project Manager/Promotion Response Analytics Quantitative Analyst – Asset Allocation Quantitative Analyst – Insurance Risk Quantitative Marketing Solutions Director & Manager Quantitative Modeler Quantitative Research Analyst