MS in Applied Data Science for Business Overview

As data and technology pervade every sphere of business, companies seek professionals who can bridge the gap between deep technical knowledge and business functions. A recent search of “business analytics” jobs in Indeed.com yielded over 50,000 job listings with over 300 in the Portland Metro region. Business leaders today also need the skills to guide an organization through digital transformation and the knowledge to create customer and stakeholder value sustainably and ethically.

The number of analytics tools has increased exponentially over the last decade’s data revolution. Demand for professionals with data science acumen continues to outstrip supply across industries, creating a talent gap in the fourth industrial revolution.

Portland State University’s Master of Science in Applied Data Science for Business (MSADSB) was built with the strategic thinker in mind. This STEM-designated degree program will position you for a career requiring knowledge of cloud services, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. With the fully online or hybrid MSADSB program, you’ll dive into business strategy, data visualization, security, and ethics — on a timeline that works with your busy schedule.  You have the flexibility to choose — online or hybrid. The curriculum applies across functions, including marketing, analytics, finance, HR, and management. Choose a specialization in Business Intelligence & Analytics, Enterprise Analytics, or — in collaboration with OHSU — Health & Clinical Informatics to further hone your skillset.

WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED DATA SCIENCE FOR BUSINESS?

88%Employed within 6 months of graduation
$82,200Average Starting Salary
$14,000Average Salary Increase

With the flexibility to choose a focus in Business Intelligence & Analytics, Enterprise Analytics, or Health & Clinical Informatics, you’ll gain cross-functional data science skills that apply across industries. MSADSB graduates will leverage advanced business concepts and can expect to grow into senior management and director roles. No matter your current area of specialty, an MSADSB degree will expand your possibilities. Potential roles include:

Senior AnalystAnalytics ManagerIT Manager
Risk ManagerDigital Marketing ManagerSocial Media Manager
Compensation AnalystFintechAudit and Accounting

Why Choose MS in Applied Data Science for Business?

  • Training in forward-thinking skillsets. The MSADSB offers training in high-demand, business-relevant data skills including visualization, data mining/warehousing, blockchain, regression analytics and tools, and languages and platforms like R, Python, Tableau, and Power BI.
  • Valuable connections with industry leaders. Located in the heart of Portland, PSU has thriving relationships with standout leaders in the region’s vibrant business community. That means a network of support, real-time insight and case studies, and opportunities to enrich your professional life.
  • Strategic, big-picture thinking. Effective leaders go beyond the technical, placing value on human-centered ideas. The MSADSB curriculum includes content on integrating different perspectives, securing stakeholder buy-in, understanding technology trends, leveraging data storytelling, and building change management processes to give you a holistic education in management.
  • The program’s core courses in digital transformation are paired with a certificate option — Business Intelligence and Analytics, Enterprise Analytics, or Clinical and Health Informatics— allowing you to curate a program targeted to your interests and goals.
  • Advanced programming, on your terms. Earn a graduate degree from an AACSB accredited business school on a schedule that fits your life as a working professional. The MSADSB is fully online or hybrid, with one-year (full-time) and two-year (part-time) options.
  • Interactive and immersive learning. Our thoughtfully planned online or hybrid program means you don’t miss out on an enriching experience with your graduate cohort. You’ll collaborate with a diverse group of students under the guidance of expert faculty, incorporating hands-on, real-world learning. 
Sam Rider

Sam Grider '22, Senior Data & Reporting Analyst, Intel Finance

Effective leaders go beyond the technical, placing value on human-centered ideas. The curriculum includes content on integrating different perspectives, securing stakeholder buy-in, understanding technology trends, leveraging data storytelling, and building change management processes. 

Full Time: 12 Months | Part Time: 24 Months | 45 Credits | Fall Start | Online

ELEVATE YOUR LEADERSHIP

Our program is meticulously crafted to empower you as a leader in digital transformation, seamlessly blending business acumen with data science skills. Engage in experiential learning and interactive coursework alongside industry partners, honing your management and strategy expertise. You'll be well-equipped to harness new and emerging technologies to address contemporary challenges. Surrounded by a diverse cohort of cross-industry professionals, you'll advocate for ethical digital transformation and applied data science, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future.

DRIVEN BY YOUR SUCCESS

The demand for leaders in digital transformation is on the rise across various sectors, including manufacturing, technology, insurance, banking, and financial services. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates an 11% increase in national occupational growth for this skill set over the next decade. Future-proof your career by gaining exposure to crucial tools and skills such as R, Python, and Tableau, and immerse yourself in hands-on coursework covering novel business models, organizational change, statistical analysis, data mining, visualization, and more. Choose from certificate specializations in business intelligence and analytics, health and clinical informatics, HR analytics, or enterprise analytics, and graduate with two impactful credentials.

INDUSTRY COLLABORATION

Informed by leaders from ESCO Group, The Standard, Autodesk, Daimler, Pacific Source, Amazon AWS, Nike, and others, our cutting-edge curriculum reflects real-world insights. Interface with regional domain experts, tackle authentic problems through case studies and guest speakers, and benefit from the expertise of our faculty, who bring deep industry experience and research into the classroom. Your connections won't be confined to your LinkedIn page; you'll become part of a coalition of leaders dedicated to turning the digital transformation of tomorrow into a reality today.

 

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