The purpose of the Graduate Business Analytics Certificate program is to achieve three objectives: Prepare students to (1) participate in and promote the progression from data and assumptions to information (descriptive methods), (2) to apply knowledge and understanding of how tools and methods can be used to support decision making (predictive methods), and (3) ultimately to document and communicate findings that lead to decisions and plans for implementation (prescriptive methods). Basic elements of the journey have long existed, but it is the integration of these objectives that defines business analytics here in the School of Business.

The certificate prepares students to use analytics for making decisions with a business mindset—seeking answers to questions in order to define the problem, gather necessary data, convert those data to decisions, arrive at and support a business‐appropriate answer, and successfully communicate that answer in a form appropriate to the audience. By combining analytics with business knowledge, we prepare our students to function successfully in the data‐rich business environment. Business students understand how business operates, how to communicate successfully with others in business, and are familiar with the concept of business goals and objectives. This business perspective is central to the design and differentiation of our certificate. 

Only MBA, M.S. and M.Acc. students in the School of Business are eligible for this certificate. A student must discuss the certificate requirements with program directors and/or the certificate directors before declaring with the form at the certificate website. Applying earlier is better, but you must apply at least 1 semester (2 if you graduate during the summer) prior to your graduation semester. If you graduate in the spring or summer semester, you must apply by December 15 of the previous year. If you graduate in the fall semester, you must apply by April 15 of your graduating year.

Analytics Tools & Methods

Analytic Steps

1. Apply analytic tools to prepare, manage, and analyze data for projects (DESCRIPTIVE)
2. Apply analytical tools and methods to both model business issues and appropriately assess and analyze model output (PREDICTIVE)
3. Design and manage data analysis, interpret results, and communicate answers and/or recommendations to support decision making (PRESCRIPTIVE)

Don Hausch, Faculty Director
James Morris
Erwan Quintin
Joan Schmit
Enno Siemsen