What to expect from an MBA in data analytics

For decades, businesses leveraged basic analytics to uncover insights and trends — usually in the form of numbers on a spreadsheet that were manually examined. Big data analytics has changed that. New technologies have helped organizations quickly and efficiently harness their data and use it to identify new opportunities.

This shift was undeniably necessary. The sheer amount of data being generated has been rapidly increasing each year. Internet users generate about 2.5 quintillion bytes of data each day. In fact, if you were to attempt to download all the data that exists from the internet today, it would take 181 million years.

In today’s workforce, industries of all kinds rely on big data analytics for everything from hiring practices to the decision-making processes that can impact business outcomes. For that reason, professionals equipped with data analytics skills are in high demand.

If you’re looking to differentiate yourself in the job market, you might consider expanding your data analytics skillset. Read on to learn more about the significance of this field and discover how an MBA in data analytics or a similar degree could help you unlock some promising career paths.

The power of pairing data analytics with business intelligence

Business intelligence involves complex strategies that help professionals analyze data and make informed decisions to benefit their organizations. Data analytics is part of that process. The intent is to transform unstructured data into a user-friendly, meaningful format.

Together, business intelligence and data analytics can lead to more efficient operations, higher profits and happier customers. According to Dr. Monica Shukla-Belmontes, associate dean of corporate pathways and competency-based education at University of Massachusetts Global, this means there’s a significant amount of opportunity for qualified professionals.

“Having employees who understand how to analyze the data related to their scope of work and how this can be utilized in all sectors of a business are in high demand because data-driven decision making is critical to effective business growth,” Dr. Shukla-Belmontes says. She adds that many organizations regularly collect data on their current and prospective customers. That data proves highly useful in predicting future trends and outcomes.

It’s no wonder the demand for data science and data analytics professionals is off the charts. A recent Workforce Report from LinkedIn reveals that shortages in these disciplines are present in almost every large U.S. city. In fact, the report claims there’s a national shortage of more than 150,000 professionals with data science and analytics skills.

If you want to be counted among the job applicants with the data skills that 70 percent of business leaders hope to see in the coming years, now is the time to act. You may want to start thinking about how you can position yourself in this in-demand field by furthering your education. One way of doing this is by obtaining formalized training, such as that offered in University of Massachusetts Global’s MBA in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect in this type of program.

What is an MBA in data analytics program like?

Possessing in-demand data analytics skills is important. But Dr. Shukla-Belmontes says it’s equally important to have a solid grasp on the skills and basic knowledge advanced business professionals are known for having if you’re interested in becoming an effective leader. Building a foundation in communications, marketing, management, financial planning and corporate responsibility can help ensure future growth. An MBA in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics can teach you those ever-important business skills while also providing you with the up-and-coming data analytics abilities employers are looking for.

“University of Massachusetts Global’s MBA with an emphasis in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics is the perfect program for individuals who are seeking to learn a new skillset that will give them a cutting edge in the business field,” Dr. Shukla-Belmontes explains. She adds that the program touches on a wide range of industries, making it applicable to anyone with an interest in better understanding data analytics.

While programs vary, graduate students who pursue the data analytics emphasis at University of Massachusetts Global will learn to apply the foundations of data analysis, visualization and modeling using industry-leading Esri geographic information system (GIS) software. Students learn to integrate data from multiple sources to synthesize current business trends. In addition to the core MBA courses in finance and economics, students interested in data analytics can expect to go deeper into data visualization, modeling and business applications.

“At University of Massachusetts Global, we focus on providing rigorous coursework that allows students to understand the real-world applications of the concepts they are learning in the classroom,” Dr. Shukla-Belmontes points out. “In this way, students gain an understanding of the theory and processes related to data analytics and data science, while also gaining skills in the application of these concepts.”

The skills and knowledge you could develop from completing an MBA in data analytics can help you qualify for a number of desirable positions. These are just a few of the positions out there:

• Market research analyst
• Supply chain manager
• Management analyst
• General or operations manager
• Computer and information systems manager

Equip yourself for success with an MBA in data analytics

If you’re looking to enhance your business qualifications, there are a number of different MBA specializations you could choose from. But considering how in-demand data science professionals are in today’s workforce, it may be time to shift your focus toward data analytics. Dr. Shukla-Belmontes maintains that students with proficient data analytics skills are likely to appear more valuable in today’s competitive business environment.

Interested in learning more? Find out how an analytics-focused graduate program could help you unlock your career potential by visiting University of Massachusetts Global’s MBA in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics program page.