Program Overview
The Master of Science in Business Data Analytics (MSBDA) at TSU will provide the students with comprehensive training in one of the fastest-growing fields. Business Data Analytics is designed for Business Analysts, Data Scientists, Information Systems Analyst, and related candidates looking to advance their professional development. The curriculum covers advanced software application tools and functions, such as descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive modeling, text and data mining, visual analytics and storytelling. The program aims to provide and prepare students to become Specialist in Business Data Analytics (BDAS). The delivery method of this proposed degree program is fully online, and no in-person class attendance will be required. The primary academic purpose of this professional degree program is to develop a professional workforce that is prepared to address the needs in the rapidly expanding data analytics field to make better business decisions. The students will be educated to work and excel in a variety of work settings to supply qualified workforce to an industry which is currently looking for cost effective ways of delivering more effective decision making based on diverse and heterogeneous data sets.Program Outcomes
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be well positioned to find employment in the burgeoning data analytics and big data industry. Learning outcomes for each of the individual courses will be provided by the instructors of the course in the course syllabus, who will have the primary responsibility to see that these outcomes are achieved. The overall goal of the MSBDA programs is to equip professionals with the tools to gather, analyze and interpret data collected on large scales. Upon completion of the MSBDA program, students will be able to:
- define problems to be addressed through data analysis techniques
- demonstrate the ability to convert client’s business (or problem domain) into analytics project requirements
- demonstrate the ability to collect data from different external sources and corporate databases, to assess data quality, and provide analysis in terms of exploratory data analysis and data visualization
- demonstrate the ability to clean and transform raw data sets for further data analytics processes
- demonstrate the ability to use various machine learning algorithms (e.g., hierarchical clustering, association) & statistical modeling techniques (e.g., regression, classification) to the data, including feature engineering and parameter optimization
- demonstrate the ability to use proper model validation (e.g., cross validation) and evaluation methods and performance metrics (e.g., prediction accuracy)
- demonstrate the ability to interpret model outputs, develop managerial and technical implications, and express oneself clearly, accurately, and professionally in both oral and written form
- demonstrate proficiency in various data analytics and visualization tools including R, Python, Tableau, Microsoft Power BI, SQL, and database programming
These student learning outcomes will be assessed with a focus on program learning outcomes, projects, data analysis outcomes, testing, conformance to best practices, student portfolios, class presentations and a variety of evaluations. Exit surveys will be carried out with all students upon finishing the program.
Program Goals
The program focusing on using advanced technologies to manipulate big data, utilizing rigorous methods to interpret the data, and obtaining the business skills necessary to translate understanding into actionable organizational strategies. The program-specific goals/objectives for this proposed Master of Science in Business Data Analytics program are:
- Develop advanced skills in data analysis.
- Gain expertise in data visualization techniques to effectively communicate complex data insights to stakeholders.
- Understand the ethical and legal considerations related to data collection, storage, and analysis in business contexts.
- Learn to apply data analytics tools and technologies to solve real-world business problems and make informed decisions.
- Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through hands-on projects and case studies in data analytics.
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of data management principles, including data quality, integration, and governance.
- Explore emerging trends and technologies in data analytics, and their applications in business.
- Prepare for leadership roles in data-driven organizations by developing a strategic mindset and the ability to drive data-driven initiatives.
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for the proposed MSBDA program will adhere to the existing graduate admission guideline of the TSU’s College of Business (https://www.tnstate.edu/mba/mbatradprosp.aspx)
All applicants are expected to:
- Be competent in oral and written English
All applicants are required to meet the following admission requirements:
- 950 points based on the formula: 200 times 4-year undergraduate GPA plus GMAT score or;
- 1000 points based on the formula: 200 times Junior-senior GPA plus GMAT score.
For example:
An applicant with a 3.2 GPA (for 4 years undergraduate) and a GMAT score of 530 would calculate:
3.2 (GPA) x’s 200 + 530 = 1170, which meets the 950-point requirement.
To complete the application process, the following documents and steps are required to be provided or taken:
* GMAT/GRE Test Waiver Options:
The GMAT/GRE test requirement may be waived for applicants who meet at least one of the following:
- Have earned at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA;
- Has 5+ years of professional or managerial work experience (resume required along with documented evidence);
- Has earned a graduate/professional degree; and
- Has 5+ years of U. S. military experience (resume required along with documented evidence).
Important Dates
Domestic Applicants
Fall Admission: July 1
Spring Admission: November 1
Summer Admission: April 1
International Applicants Residing Outside the US
Fall Admission: April 1
Spring Admission: September 1
Summer Admission: February 1
International Applicants Currently Residing Within the US
Fall Admission: June 1
Spring Admission: October 1
Summer Admission: March 1
Program Duration
The MSBDA is 30 credit hours master’s degree to be completed Online in 12 months. The delivery method of this proposed degree program is fully online, and no in-person class attendance will be required.
Transfer of Credits
Students may transfer up to 12 credit hours of approved coursework from an AACSB Accredited College of Business or may transfer up to 6 credit hours of approved coursework from a regionally accredited University.
Degree Requirements
- Candidates must satisfy all prerequisites, complete core requirements and other approved courses to satisfy the minimum number of semester hours required for a graduate degree, and accumulate a minimum GPA of “B” or 3.0 on a 4.0 system.
- Candidates must file the application of “Admission to Candidacy” for the MBA degree after completing all required prerequisites and nine (9) semester hours of graduate course work taken in residence with a “B” average in all courses taken for graduate credit. The recommendation of the major advisor and approval of the Dean of the Graduate School are required.
- Candidates must file “Application for Graduation” at least one full semester prior to commencement, including clearance with the major advisor, the Dean of the Graduate School, the Business Office, the Placement Bureau, the Office of Admissions and Records, and the University Library.
- Candidates should attend commencement. The MBA degree may be awarded in absentia upon prior approval by the Dean of the Graduate School.
Accreditation Information
The College of Business at Tennessee State University is strongly grounded with a stellar reputation afforded by accreditation at both the undergraduate and graduate levels by the major accrediting agency for business schools - AACSB International-The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The College is poised to successfully fulfill its mission with new academic programs, new corporate alliances, new international partners, and a newly renovated academic facility on the Avon Williams Building which includes a state-of-the-art financial trading center.
Career Opportunities
Graduating with a Master of Science in Business Data Analytics opens up a range of career opportunities. Here are some potential roles:
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Data Engineer
- Marketing Analyst
- Operations Analyst
- Financial Analyst
- Consultant
- Product Analyst
- Risk Analyst
These roles can be found across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, technology, and retail. The demand for data-driven decision-making continues to grow, making this field a promising career path.
Faculty Credentials
All faculty members in the program possess PhD degrees in their respective fields and bring extensive experience to their roles.
Program Website
https://www.tnstate.edu/bis/index-1-1.aspx
Program Coordinator/Contact Information
Sosiak Makonnen, Director of Graduate Programs
Office: Suite K417, Avon Williams Building
(615) 963-7622
smakonne@tnstate.edu
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