Master of Science in Data Analytics

Learning Outcomes

Master of Science in Data Analytics Learning Goals and Objectives 

Graduates from the NIU Department of Operations Management and Information Systems’ Master of Science in data analytics program will fulfill the following 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.

Admission

Admission to the Master of Science in data analytics program is competitive. At minimum, applicants must meet the admission requirements of the NIU Graduate School and demonstrate that they possess the following minimum qualifications: 

For applicants with a baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited U.S. college or university:

• Strong record of academic achievement demonstrated by cumulative GPA.
• The GMAT/GRE is not required but may be submitted to supplement the academic record if GPA does not fully demonstrate academic ability.

For International applicants without a baccalaureate or higher degree from a U.S. college or university, GRE or GMAT is required for admission:

• Strong record of academic potential demonstrated by GMAT or GRE score.
• Official IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall) or TOEFL (minimum 80) score received directly from the testing agency.

Phase One (6)

The Phase One foundations consist of three 2-semester-hour courses. Phase One foundation courses will be required in students’ program of study unless they have earned a C or better in corresponding undergraduate courses or a B or better in equivalent graduate courses elsewhere, or have passed the first and only attempt of Phase One exemption examination. The department program adviser will determine which Phase One courses will be included in students’ program of courses. Credits earned in Phase One will not count toward the Phase Two requirements. Phase One consists of the following courses:

• OMIS 505 - Principles of Operations Management Credits: 2
• OMIS 507 - Business Information Systems Credits: 2
• OMIS 524 - Business Statistics Credits: 2

Phase Two (30)

Total hours (30-36)