MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics - Online

Who should attend

This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and applied skills in data science, big data analytics, and business intelligence. It aims to develop analytical and investigative knowledge and skills using data science tools and techniques and to enhance data science knowledge and critical interpretation skills. Students will understand the impact of data science upon modern processes and businesses, be able to identify and implement specific tools, practices, features, and techniques to enhance the analysis of data.

Program outline

This program is specifically designed to provide:

• Knowledge and applied skills in data science, big data analytics, and business intelligence.
• Overall understanding of the impact of data science upon modern processes and business.
• Exposure to data science tools and techniques, as well as methods of data collection and utilization, to turn data into useful information via various processes.

Modules and project

The program comprises 4 pre-requisite modules (for non-Computing students), 10 coursework modules, and a Capstone Project (2 parts).

Pre-requisite modules (for non-computing students: to be completed upon 1st month of the program)

• R-programming
• Statistics
• Database for Data Science
• Programming in Python

Core modules

• Big Data Analytics & Technologies
• Data Management
• Business Intelligence Systems
• Research Methodology for Capstone Project
• Applied Machine Learning
• Data Analytical Programming
• Multivariate Methods for Data Analysis
• Capstone Project 1
• Advanced Business Analytics and Visualisation
• Capstone Project 2

Specialization modules (choose 1 pathway only)

Pathway 1 (Business Intelligence):

• Behavioural Science, Social Media, and Marketing Analytics
• Time Series Forecasting
• Strategies in Emerging Markets
• OR Multilevel Data Analysis
• OR Operations Research and Optimization

Pathway 2 (Data Engineering):

• Cloud Infrastructure and Services
• Deep Learning
• Natural Language Processing
• OR Building IoT Applications
• OR Data Protection and Management

* Specialization modules may be pre-selected for students at the beginning of the semester. If students wish to change these pre-selected elective modules, they can choose from the available modules offered in the semester OR among the intensive delivery modules - however, such changes may prolong the study duration.

Open and Distance Learning (ODL)

• MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics with ODL (Open & Distance Learning) allows students to learn anytime, anywhere at their own pace - this power of freedom has ignited more interest & excitement in learning.
• The delivery will be Microsoft Teams and Moodle.
• The ODL Programme for Data Science and Business Analytics is available for part-time study mode. The minimum duration of study is 2.5 years.
• This is an APU own award only.
• Students are to register the modules on a modular basis. Each module will be offered over a two-month duration.

Benefits of the program

• In addition to the degree award, a Joint Professional Certification will be offered by SAS Institute, USA.
• 30% of the curriculum will allow for mini-projects assessed as in-course work allowing for practical skills development in Data Analytics.
• The curriculum covers a wide range of subject matter from Analytical Technologies, Exposure to tools such as R & SAS Modelers, Data Visualization, Customer/User Behavioural Studies, Forecasting Methods, and Presenting Business Intelligence reports.
• External Programme Annual Reviews by International University Partners.
• Program Support by an Industry Advisory Panel involving data analytical experts from Petronas ICT, RedTone, SharePoint, CyberSecurity Malaysia, Maxis, IBM, Microsoft, Fusionex, and Axiata.
• Research opportunities via APU’s Centre of Analytics - APCA.

Career options

• Data Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
• Data Analytics Manager
• Business Analyst Manager
• Data Innovation Manager
• Machine Learning Scientist
• Business Process Engineer
• Data Wrangler / Munger / Miner
• Business Intelligence Manager
• Analytics & Reporting Manager
• Decision Analytics Manager

Joint professional certification by Tibco Software Inc.

Upon completion of the MSc in Data Science & Business Analytics program, in addition to their Master's Degrees, students will receive a professional certificate from TIBCO Software Inc. TIBCO is amongst the global leaders in Integration, Data Management, and Analytics platforms that has a global clientele. In addition to the certification, TIBCO, as APU’s industry partner, has provided all students & lecturers with complimentary access to the TIBCO Spotfire software for academic purposes. Students are utilizing the software to perform tasks & projects related to data analytics.

SAS - APU joint certificate in Data Science and Business Analytics

APU and SAS have signed an MoA in partnership to develop Data Scientists in Malaysia. SAS also has endorsed the UG and PG level programs in Data Analytics by providing tools and educational material support for learning and research purposes. All UG and PG Data Analytics graduates will receive a Joint Professional Certificate from SAS.

In addition, students will be awarded an e-Badge, to feature this achievement on their CV and LinkedIn profiles.

Why study MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics?

Graduates will be equipped with knowledge, skills, and experience in three major dimensions: Strategic and Commercial application, “hands-on” ICT skills, and Statistics & Analytics. The program is not merely analytics-oriented but develops the ability to use analytics to drive key success metrics related to yield management and revenue generation in practically any business domain. There is a tremendous requirement for Data Scientists and Big Data Specialists worldwide now and in the future, with hundreds of thousands of new job opportunities emerging globally. In Malaysia alone, by the year 2020, this need is expected to reach at least 15,000 professionals.

Data Science @ APU - Fortified through partnerships

The program has been carefully designed by APU with inputs and content from our partners, comprising major technology and software solutions providers, university partners as well as industry organizations who use analytics for strategic and competitive advantage.

The strength of these partnerships ensures that the program comprehensively addresses all key stakeholders – Technology providers, Employers, Government as well as Students – in its learning outcomes, curriculum content, delivery, and assessment. Students also obtain certification jointly issued with industry partners, which would certainly give them a head start in the exciting world of Big Data.

Furthermore, APU is also poised to become a frontrunner in analytics research through the establishment of the Asia Pacific Centre of Analytics (APCA), through which research activities will be undertaken to challenge boundaries in the application of analytics.

Graduates from this program will not only gain an academic qualification from APU but would also automatically attain a Globally Recognised Professional Industry Certification from SAS. Along the way, graduates would also gain exposure to industrial workshops led by experts from the industry, providing a valuable gateway into future careers.