Data Analytics

Overview

With a heavy focus on real-world learning experiences, The Master of Science in Data Analytics at Northern Illinois University will build competencies in you for extracting deep insights from big data that are readily applicable in a range of contexts and industries.

The program is in an online format for a large population of potential graduate students who cannot commit to either a full-time or location-based program to obtain the advanced degree. The program consists of two phases. Phase One (6 semester hours) is designed to address deficiencies in undergraduate course work considered to be prerequisite for the Phase Two (30 semester hours) graduate course work.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcome 1: Demonstrate Data-Driven Problem Solving and Decision Making Skills

1.1  Demonstrate how analyzing data can improve decisions throughout an organization’s value chain.

1.2  Research and evaluate emerging technologies and data analytics trends in order to develop innovative data-driven organizational strategies and solutions.

Learning Outcome 2: Demonstrate the Ability to Access, Collect, Integrate, and Analyze Data in Order to Solve Business Problems

2.1 Differentiate different forms of analytics and the methods used in each.

2.2 Prepare data for statistical analysis.

2.3 Use analytical tools and software widely used in practice.

2.4 Perform basic exploratory and descriptive analysis, as well as predictive and prescriptive analyses.

2.5 Explain complex analytical models.

Learning Outcome 3: Demonstrate Business Communication and Presentation Skills

3.1 Effectively present results using data visualization tools.

3.2 Communicate and present complex analytics results to business clients, using practical and simple business terms that can be understood by general non-technical audiences.

Learning Outcome 4: Demonstrate Project Management and Critical Thinking Skills

4.1 Manage a data analytics project to interpret complex data and to guide their organizations in making more informed and actionable decisions.

4.2 Analyze critical factors leading to the identification of a business problem or opportunity. This may also lead to smarter business moves, more efficient operations, higher profits, and happier customers.