Data and analytics are rapidly redefining and transforming almost every industry, from healthcare and manufacturing to marketing and finance. At a time when the demand for data scientists and engineers will grow 39% by 2020, employers are seeking out leaders who can effectively work with technologists to ask the right questions and apply the insight to solve business problems.It will come as no shock, then, that business schools are launching more programs to equip graduates with the skills they need to succeed. Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, for example, last week launched a nine-month program which provides recent college graduates with advanced data management, analytical and communication skills.
“We are observing significant demand by employers for these pre-experience programs, which focus on combining technical training with strong professional skills,” says Susan Christoffersen, vice-dean of specialized programs at the business school.
Developed in consultation with analytical professionals, Rotman’s Master of Management Analytics (MMA) course combines training in the use of predictive and prescriptive analytical tools, which can be used to solve managerial problems. Students will be exposed to the latest developments in big data, machine learning, cybersecurity, and deep learning. They will develop high-level communication and interpersonal skills, as well as data visualization techniques — needed to help students not only interpret data but present it in a form which is easy to interpret and explain.
Rotman is far from the only school launching an analytics program. Harvard Business School recently rolled out an online certificate in the subject. It is designed for experienced professionals, including MBAs, who wish to expand their knowledge and capabilities in data analytics. Upon completion, students will have a foundational understanding of quantitative analysis and data science, and will be able to apply the knowledge to solve a range of complex business problems.
“We are in the midst of a secular shift in the economy, where transactions are being digitized and generating more data, making it critical that companies recruit business leaders who are both analytics-savvy and understand how to deploy these new capabilities to drive strategic advantage,” says Karim Lakhani, co-founder of the HBS Digital Initiative.
David Parkes, co-director of the Harvard Data Science Initiative, adds that the partnership, across Harvard's various schools, reflects the need for integrated thinking in enabling data-driven decision making.
Meanwhile, Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business said last month it plans to create a new MBA certificate in “Management Science and Technology Management”. The certificate adds to Duke Fuqua’s other efforts in data science; last year it created Master of Quantitative Management program. The standalone degree format is popular. Last year, MIT Sloan School of Management launched a master of business analytics degree, and other schools — including NYU Stern School of Business — offer specialist data science courses.
With demand for data-savvy managerial talent set to grow, more schools will likely create such programs.
“We were hearing from companies that there was a skills gap between being able to identify insights from big data and translating that information into business functions,” says Duke Fuqua dean Bill Boulding. “This was a no-brainer for us in leveraging our faculty’s strengths to train analysts in how to use and communicate data to influence decision-making.”
Student Reviews
Duke University Fuqua School of Business
Supportive atmosphere
The professors at Duke university exhibit exceptional commitment to the success and well-being of their students by ensuring their academic growth and fostering a supportive social atmosphere. Moreover, the entire community is recognized for its amicability and inclusiveness.
Diversity
The people or the students are without a doubt Duke's greatest asset. While all students are driven to succeed, they are also enthusiastic about a variety of hobbies. You run across a huge lot of diversity. It is the ideal example of a school with well-rounded students and the ideal balance of campus life in a metropolis.
Happy to school
All I could ever hope for is Duke University. That really epitomizes the "work hard, play hard" philosophy that elite colleges frequently pursue. Even though you'll have a lot of schooling to complete over the week, it's simple to keep focused because all of your friends are putting in similar amounts of effort. Many events taking place on and around campus on the weekends provide a great way to unwind. The combination of demanding academics and traditional college fun strikes the perfect balance.
Good schooling
Living, eating, learning, and developing who you want to be as an adult are all fantastic at Duke. I participated in student athletics, and I couldn't have asked for a better interaction with the faculty and other students. I appreciate all of the help I get from the Duke community more than anything. Furthermore, the teachers take the time to get to know you, and the lectures are diverse and demanding (if you do the same). I'd give it a 10 out of 10.
Beautiful School, Nice Classes
DU remains one the greatest and best universities that I have ever stepped in. The school is beautiful and neat. The classes are spacious and also very nice. I enjoyed attending my Lectures in those lecture halls. I also loved the Lecturers because of the good work they did. The university also has very good dorms that are given to students on first come first serve basis and they are affordable
Amazing experience
I received my B.S. in Biology and B.A. in Global Health with a minor in Chemistry from Duke University. I was able to grow as a student, scientist, and global health advocate with the help of my friends, professors, and other mentors I met along the way. A lot to learn if you look and ask, a great place to learn for those who want to learn.
whirlwind of growth and change
An amazing 2 years, with covid and everything else happening Duke has been a place of growth for me. The courses , classes were one of a kind, online and on campus. But the valuable lessons learned in the classes are irreplicable. The students are amazing here, so much diversity , I had no problem fitting in. The teachers are down right brilliant and so helpful. Don't be afraid to ask them anything. Graduated with my MBA with Duke and now my future awaits.
One of the best for Business students
Graduated with an MBA. The classes were very insightful and engaging. The staff are very easy to deal with. The teachers and students, are truly amazing people. Grateful to all the people I've met along the way at Duke. I've learnt a great deal that will help me in my future endeavors. The campus itself is a marvel, it is beautiful.
The university campus is awesome
I graduated with a masters degree in Religious Studies from Duke University. One thing I really liked about the university is its huge campus. It is spread in a large area with a lot of greenery and also have the facilities of reading rooms for single person also. My department building was very well taken care of. The library is immensely populated with books for all your needs. The faculty is very nice to students. The classes are equipped with latest technology to cater the needs of students. The University also provides room rentals for international students. They are very well maintained and priority is given to the International students for a comfortable stay there. There are weekly events conducted by the University as well as Student clubs for the entertainment of students. Anybody can take part in them and show their talents. I enjoyed my degree and I graduated in 2021 and was very happy that I had graduated from a reputed University.
Program Flexibility and Vibrant Campus Life
Duke University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. The university offers a diverse range of majors and research opportunities, supported by world-class faculty.
What I particularly liked about Duke was its strong sense of community and the wealth of extracurricular activities available to students. The campus is beautiful, with top-notch facilities and a supportive atmosphere that fosters both personal and academic growth.
Overall, I would highly recommend Duke University for its excellent educational offerings and strong alumni network. If you're looking for a place that challenges you academically while offering numerous opportunities for personal development, Duke is an excellent choice.
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