Analytics and Systems, M.S.

Mandeville Hall, Room 304
Telephone: (203) 576-2390
Fax: (203) 576-4388

The UB MS in Analytics & Systems Value Proposition

The MS in Analytics & Systems (MS A&S) is a 30-credit graduate program designed to meet the needs of students whose career goals include integrating data, technology, and methods to provide insights for constructive decision-making. The program accomplishes its mission by developing student expertise in technical skill, solution architecture and delivery, analysis and management. Graduates of the MS A&S will be well-positioned to enter contemporary data-driven organizations.

Students will learn both a breadth of knowledge of information systems and a depth of skills in modern analytical methods. Classwork involves both rigorous instruction and required projects to prepare graduates for the unique stresses of this fast-paced industry. A similar MBA program with a concentration in Analytics Intelligence is offered by our Ernest C. Trefz School of Business; this MS A&S is for students looking to focus more on analytics and systems specifically, rather than business management generally.

Positive program outcomes will be achieved through the knowledge and skills the students will acquire from a comprehensive curriculum design, instruction in an effective learning environment, opportunities for inquiry, and professional development. This program largely leverages our existing offerings. While more specific and analytical in nature, these learning outcomes are in line with our institutional mission, and our MBA program.

Program Characteristics

Although students with work experience will find maximum benefit from the MS A&S; no previous work experience is required. The curriculum is designed to recognize and accommodate substantial diversity in preparation and experience as well as the different goals and career expectations of students. For this reason, some students may be required to complete preparatory coursework to successfully graduate from the 30-credit MS A&S program. Flexible course delivery enables students to proceed at their desired pace. Most students complete the MS A&S program in 18 to 24 months.

Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate:

1. knowledge in - conducting data analysis to discern appropriate actions to solve business problems, - defining and applying all aspects of the information technology (IT) lifecycle from the lens of BI and analytics, and - defining and applying project management knowledge areas and process groups to real-world projects.
2. the ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively in oral and written structures in both formal and informal settings.
3. interpersonal and professional skills that enable them to contribute within diverse sets of teams and build internal and external relationships that facilitate success in contemporary organizations.
4. information literacy, proficiency with technology, and analytical techniques for decision-making.
5. creativity and innovation when addressing current issues and case studies.
6. integrity in their actions, as well as an understanding of ethical theories, such as triple bottom line and corporate social responsibility.
7. critical and logical thinking that integrates concepts across disciplines enabling them to successfully lead in a dynamic global environment.

Technical

• Demonstrating an understanding of concepts learned throughout this graduate program
• Describing the business drivers and critical success factors for effective analytics and systems project and program delivery
• Using research, tools and techniques for complex analytical solutions that capture, consolidate and present information for meaningful insights

Human

• Communicating complicated information at a professional level clearly and concisely
• Understanding how to manage all aspects of the data capture, delivery and analysis process
• Demonstrating initiative, discipline, and follow-through on assignments and projects
• Facilitating meaningful dialogue related to class topics

Conceptual

• Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of analytics and systems solution designs, tools and visualization options
• Analyzing trends within data, facilitating their application, and sharing throughout the organization
• Applying the theories and techniques learned throughout this program with focus on analytics, information systems, sourcing, and vendor management

Learning Outcomes will be assessed using the following measures:

• Research papers integrating market trends with class topics
• Exams measuring the effective acquisition of technical, systems design and delivery acumen
• “Hands on” tools and calculation assignments and projects covering key managerial aspects of analytics and systems design and delivery
• Student attendance and class participation
• A thesis or internship that demonstrates the ability to conduct investigations in the analytics and systems discipline

Language Requirement

Conditionally accepted international students with an undergraduate degree that was taught in a language other than English are required to successfully complete additional language-related coursework and third-party assessment testing before joining the program.

Academic Preparation

Students with undergraduate preparation in a non-business field may be required to complete up to 6 credits of preparatory course- work. Students with a strong academic record (B or better in each case) from an accredited university, or significant relevant work experience, may be able to waive preparatory foundation courses. ACCT 500 - Accounting, Business Law & Ethics  requires both managerial and financial accounting, as well as any course labelled business law that included contracts and tort law. MGMT 500 - Management & Marketing  requires organizational behavior, operations management, and marketing or any similarly named course that includes consumer behavior.