MS in Applied Data Science for Business: An AI-Forward Program

To bridge the growing talent gap in the "Fourth Industrial Revolution," Portland State University offers the STEM-designated Master of Science in Applied Data Science for Business (MSADSB).

This AI-forward program is designed for strategic thinkers who want to master the technical and ethical complexities of digital transformation.

Why Choose the MSADSB?

  • Market Demand: With over 50,000 "business analytics" listings on Indeed, this degree prepares you for a high-growth landscape where demand consistently outstrips supply.
  • AI-Centered Curriculum: Gain hands-on expertise in machine learning, deep learning, and cloud services while understanding the strategic and operational implications of AI.
  • Versatile Specializations: Tailor your degree to your career goals with concentrations in Business Intelligence & Analytics, Enterprise Analytics, or Health & Clinical Informatics (in collaboration with OHSU).
  • Flexible Learning: Designed for busy professionals, the program offers fully online or hybrid formats that fit your schedule.

Core Outcomes

Graduates of the MS in Applied Data Science for Business develop the skills to apply data science, analytics, and AI across core business functions, including finance, marketing, and HR, while using critical thinking and creativity to drive ethical, sustainable business value. You’ll be prepared to translate machine learning and advanced analytics into decisions that support organizational strategy and digital transformation.

With the flexibility to specialize in Business Intelligence & Analytics, Enterprise Analytics, or Health & Clinical Informatics, you’ll gain cross-functional expertise that applies across industries. Demand for these skills continues to grow: a recent search for “business analytics” roles on Indeed returned more than 50,000 job listings nationwide, including 300+ in the Portland metro region. MSADSB graduates are positioned to bridge the gap between technical teams and business leaders and to advance into senior management and director-level roles, regardless of prior functional background.

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, Tableau and Power BI, 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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