Online MBA (OMBA) in Business Analytics

The demand for the number of U.S. employees trained in data science and analytics is expected to reach 2.7 million by 2020 (source: Forbes).

Collecting, processing, storing and extracting valuable actionable knowledge from data are now imperatives for businesses to stay competitive. Expertise in deciphering relevant data, analyzing it to uncover trends and recognize patterns, translating the analysis into valuable insights about performance and processes, and using it to make informed strategic decisions is in high demand across industries.

A specialization in Business Analytics expands student skills and knowledge in emerging technologies, current trends in business intelligence, and tools for analytics to equips students with knowledge in data mining and predictive analysis, business intelligence and Big Data, visualization, text mining, and web mining, social media and web analytics, clickstream data, and data management and analysis mastery using Excel.

Students who choose a Business Analytics specialization select courses from the list below, or other approved Special Topics courses to fulfill the 12 credit (4 course) elective requirement. Elective course offerings vary by semester. Courses may be offered online or on-campus.

*Certain specializations may vary in cost and schedule from the enrolled program (e.g. some specializations may be only available online or require class attendance outside of the regularly scheduled program times, such as on the weekends).

Data Mining and Predictive Analytics (ISM 6136)

Introduces the core concepts of data mining (DM) and its techniques, implementation and benefits. Identifies industry branches that most benefit from DM, such as retail, target marketing, fraud protection, health care and science, and web and e-commerce. Detailed case studies and using leading mining tools on real data are presented.

Database Management Systems (ISM 6217)

Development of well-formed databases to manage data from initial database design to implementation and query. Applies database management tools and techniques such as data security for use in businesses and government. Available only to graduate students lacking an undergraduate course in database management systems.

Introduction to Business Analytics and Big Data (ISM 6404)

Provides an understanding of the business intelligence and business analytics processes and techniques used in transforming data to knowledge and value in organizations. Students also develop skills in analyzing data using generally available tools, e.g. Excel.

Advanced Business Analytics (ISM 6405)

An in-depth examination of business analytics methods of visualization, data mining, text mining and web mining, using various analytical tools. In a laboratory setting, investigates applications for smaller firms.

Social Media and Web Analytics (ISM 6555)

Covers concepts and techniques for retrieving, exploring, visualizing and analyzing social network and social media data, website usage and clickstream data. Learn to use key metrics to assess goals and return on investment and perform social network analysis to identify important social actors, subgroups and network properties in social media.

Data Management and Analysis with Excel (QMB 6303)

Solve research and business problems by leveraging the most powerful productivity tool, Excel. Curation, management, analysis, and visualization of information and data are covered by using PowerView, Vlookup, charts, pivot tables, scenarios, functions, macro programming etc.

Supply Chain Analytics (QMB 6616)

Develops skills in modeling and optimization techniques for the analysis of strategic, tactical and operational supply chain problems. Problems range from inventory management, distribution planning and facility location to risk management and global sourcing.