MSc in Business Analytics

Program Overview

The MSc in Business Analytics at Durham University equips students with the skills to extract insights from big data, addressing the growing reliance on analytics in modern businesses. Through core modules, a major international field trip, and a supervised project, graduates gain expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and strategic decision-making, preparing them for careers in various sectors and functions.

Program Outline

Business Analytics MSc at Durham University

Degree Overview:

The MSc in Business Analytics aims to equip you for a key role in modern business by providing the skills and knowledge to gain competitive business insights from big data. The program addresses the growing reliance on analytics in global businesses to understand and predict customer behavior, monitor internal processes, and manage suppliers effectively. Within a supportive and research-driven learning environment, you will explore the complexities of the big data world and develop an understanding of its role, applying relevant analytical tools and techniques to gain key insights.

Outline:

Program Duration:

1 year (full-time)

Program Location:

Durham City

Program Start Date:

September 2024

Program Structure:

• Core modules (taught through lectures, seminars, and practicals)
• Major International Field Trip (fully funded)
• Business Analytics Project (involving in-depth research and supervised by faculty)

Core Modules:

• Introduction to Business Analytics: Provides an in-depth understanding of advanced data structures, business strategy formulation and implementation, and specialist tools for analyzing the competitive and contextual environment.
• Data Analytics in Action: Covers the techniques used in business analytics and teaches how to apply analytical models and data visualization using appropriate software.
• Learning from Data: Provides practical tools in machine learning, enabling computer systems to improve their processes for data exploration and interpretation.
• Natural Language Analysis: Introduces cutting-edge techniques for automated analysis of text-based data, focusing on preparing data for machine learning, using advanced machine learning techniques for natural language analysis, and applying these techniques in business settings like sentiment and social media analysis.
• Retail Analytics: Helps you understand the role of data in decision-making within the retail and distribution industries, covering topics like retail management, communication, customer relationship management, and data requirements for market segmentation.
This module also emphasizes the role of data analytics in data-driven decision-making.
• Data Analytics in Action - International Field Trip: This fully funded trip exposes you to new cultures and ways of working, offering the opportunity to visit leading international knowledge-driven organizations.
The trip will involve researching and producing either a detailed case study or a comparative analysis of two organizations, based on desk research and primary research conducted during the visit.

Business Analytics Project:

This project requires an in-depth investigation of a business analytics-related issue. You can choose between working with a host organization or conducting an issue-led independent investigation. Your project will be supervised by faculty and provide an opportunity to demonstrate your analytical skills and present your findings in a professional manner.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a combination of assessment methods, including:

• Examinations: Written or online tests assessing your knowledge and understanding of the modules.
• Coursework: Assignments, essays, and projects demonstrating your ability to apply learned concepts.
• Presentations: Presenting your research and findings through oral presentations.
• Business Analytics Project: A substantial piece of independent research assessed based on its content, analysis, and presentation.

Teaching:

The program combines teaching methods including:

• Lectures: Delivered by experts to introduce key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Small-group discussions to foster critical thinking and understanding of topics.
• Practicals: Medium-sized group sessions for practicing computer software applications related to lectures and seminars.
• Guest Speaker Presentations: Opportunities to hear from leading academics and professionals in the field.

Careers:

The MSc in Business Analytics equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in various sectors and functions, including:

• Consultancy
• Technology
• Engineering/Manufacturing
• Healthcare/Pharmaceutical
• Media/Entertainment
• Transportation/Logistics
The program also provides career development support through:
• One-to-one appointments with a career consultant
• Workshops and events
• Networking opportunities
• Resources and materials

Other:

• The program is jointly ranked 3rd in the world for employability in the QS Business Masters rankings: Business Analytics 2023.
• The program welcomes graduates from both business and tech backgrounds with strong quantitative or computational skills.
• The program offers a staged admissions process with deadlines throughout the year.
• The program provides students with membership in one of Durham University's Colleges, offering various benefits and opportunities.
• The program highlights the ethical and security implications of data analytics.

Home students: £35,000 per year EU students: £35,000 per year Island students: £35,000 per year International students: £35,000 per year