Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Science in Business Analytics for Working Professionals (MSBA-WP) Program

The Master of Science in Business Analytics for Working Professionals (MSBA-WP) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in business analytics, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today's data-driven business environment. The program is tailored to meet the needs of working professionals, offering a flexible and blended learning format that combines online coursework with in-person immersives.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The MSBA-WP program consists of a 36-hour curriculum that is structured to allow students to engage deeply with coursework while balancing existing professional responsibilities. The program is divided into two curriculum pathways: Marketing Analytics and Supply Chain.

Core Courses

The following are the core courses in the MSBA-WP program:

• Data Science Programming
  • This course teaches students the tools for data-driven analysis, using Python and Pandas.
• Information Management
  • This course explores various concepts of data management and develops expertise in managing data from the design and modeling of a database to data querying and processing.
• Introduction to Machine Learning
  • This course covers selected topics in the applications of data science to business problems, including regression analysis, tree models, and clustering.
• Financial Management
  • This course covers recent advances in cost accounting, inputs into the design of cost systems, and maximizing shareholder value through the investment decision and the financing decision.
• Advanced Machine Learning
  • This course involves the study of a variety of machine learning techniques for predictive analytics, with a focus on approaches that are scalable to very large data sets.
• Analytics for Unstructured Data
  • This course focuses on the analytics of text and images and their business applications, including natural language processing and computer vision analytics.
• Optimization-I
  • This course deals with optimization methods that help in decision-making, covering a broad range of relevant quantitative techniques.
• Optimization-II
  • This course covers optimization methods that help in decision-making under uncertainty, including advanced simulation methods and stochastic programming.
• Unsupervised Learning
  • This course covers unsupervised statistical learning techniques and their role in creating actionable information.
• Capstone Preparation
  • This course prepares students for the capstone project, which brings together database management, data analysis techniques, and business decision-making.
• Capstone Project
  • This course provides practical experience managing a project end-to-end and tackling business challenges for a real-world client.

Elective Courses

The following are the elective courses in the MSBA-WP program:

• Marketing Analytics
• Supply Chain Analytics
• Demand Analytics/Pricing
• Advanced Data Analytics in Marketing
• Financial Technology
• Data Driven Healthcare Operations
• Social Media Analytics
• Time Series Analysis
• Ethics of Analytics
• Data Security

Blended Learning Format

The MSBA-WP program features a blended learning format that combines asynchronous online learning, synchronous weekly meetings, and in-person immersives. This format allows students to engage with coursework on their own schedule, while also providing opportunities for live interaction with peers and faculty.

Asynchronous Online Learning

Asynchronous online learning allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule, with self-paced online modules and assignments.

Synchronous Weekly Meetings

Synchronous weekly meetings provide live online interaction with peers and faculty, allowing students to discuss coursework and receive feedback in real-time.

In-Person Immersives

In-person immersives provide an opportunity for students to engage with industry leaders, apply MSBA learnings to real-world industry problems, and network with colleagues and faculty. The program includes five required in-person immersives, which take place on the University of Texas at Austin campus.

Capstone and Practicum Experience

The capstone project provides practical experience managing a project end-to-end and tackling business challenges for a real-world client. Students work in teams to develop a comprehensive business analytics solution, applying the skills and knowledge gained throughout the program.

Industry Engagement

The MSBA-WP program provides opportunities for students to engage with industry sponsors through on-campus immersives, virtual speaker events, networking receptions, and many other opportunities. This industry engagement allows students to build relationships with professionals in the field, gain insights into real-world business challenges, and develop a network of contacts that can aid in their future careers.

Faculty

The MSBA-WP program is taught by a faculty of experienced professionals and renowned scholars in the field of business analytics. The faculty includes:

• Dr. Jade DeKinder, Associate Dean of MS Programs
• Dr. Anitesh Barua, Professor of Unstructured Data
• Dr. Garrett Sonnier, Associate Professor of Marketing

Learning Outcomes

The MSBA-WP program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today's data-driven business environment. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Apply data science algorithms and optimization models to business problems
• Generate business value by correctly applying business techniques
• Apply data science algorithms in at least one business discipline
• Manage a business analytics project end-to-end

Conclusion

The Master of Science in Business Analytics for Working Professionals (MSBA-WP) program is a comprehensive and flexible program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today's data-driven business environment. With a blended learning format, industry engagement, and a faculty of experienced professionals, the MSBA-WP program is an ideal choice for working professionals looking to advance their careers in business analytics.