Business Analytics (MSc)

How will I be taught?

An active learning approach is embedded in this programme. We believe that effective learning is founded on two things - your involvement in diverse experiences, and the way you make sense of those experiences, both individually and with others. 

Each topic covered includes a variety of activities such as exposure to the most advanced extant theories, case studies, videos, mini team challenges, - all designed to introduce new ideas and develop your understanding.

Our programme is designed to build your capability and profile as a business analytics expert. You’ll collaborate with other students to develop new insights into the nature of the topic in a variety of contexts; you’ll be encouraged to work both individually and collaboratively in diverse teams to consider a range of alternative theoretical approaches and practices.

Trying out new learning is important too. You’ll integrate and apply new understandings, together with new analytical skills, in practical tasks embedded in each learning topic, and in formal coursework activities.

How will I be assessed?

The modularised programme structure provides plenty of opportunities for you to reflect on your learning and development both formally and informally. Short knowledge/skill review activities are built into each module to help you check your progress and improve your approach to learning. This will build your confidence and enhance your approach to formal assessment tasks.

A variety of formal assessment tasks provide the opportunity to explore concepts and models in creative and practical ways. These include poster presentations, case studies, group presentations, reports, and videos. You’ll work individually as well as part of a team, just as you would in the workplace.

How will I be supported?

The University offers a wealth of support for postgraduate students, which includes: 

Learning Central

Learning Central is our virtual learning environment.  All programme and module materials are posted here for students to access before, during and after lectures.

Libraries

You’ll have access to libraries across campus which hold over 1.1 million printed books. You will also have access to more than 1.5 million online books, journals, resources and databases.

Personal Tutor System

You’ll be allocated a personal tutor. This member of academic staff will maintain an overview of your learning and educational experiences. If you are experiencing difficulties, your personal tutor will be there to listen and where possible provide professional guidance or direct you to the appropriate source of support.

In addition to this, a suite of support services is offered by our Student Life teams. Located in the purpose-built Centre for Student Life, these support services encompass: Advice and Money, Student Futures for careers support, Counselling services, Health and Wellbeing, the Student Disability Service including dyslexia support, Academic Study Skills and Student Mentoring.

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.

On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Demonstrate systematic understanding of the links between theory, principles and practice of business analytics.
• Critically evaluate contemporary issues in business analytics by drawing on current research and identifying the potential implications for future research and practice.
• Critically assess the relevance of modern theoretical concepts in the context of the contemporary dynamic business environment.
• Apply relevant research and professional knowledge to solve real-world business scenarios.
• Apply and critically evaluate analytical solutions such as big data analytics and machine learning for business applications.

Intellectual Skills:

• Define a business or research-based problem clearly.
• Evaluate and select an appropriate research methodology and effectively manage a research project, including analysis, time management and resources.
• Use appropriate tools to investigate business or research-based problems.
• Critically analyse, synthesise and evaluate contrasting perspectives and supporting evidence.
• Generate and communicate data-driven insights to inform business strategies and decision-making.

Professional Practical Skills:

• Analyse business data, assess current situations and predict future trends.
• Select and interrogate appropriate databases and relevant software packages.
• Develop data analysis skills essential for building and implementing sustainable business solutions.
• Apply relevant knowledge for effective day-to-day decision making.

Transferable/Key Skills:

• Demonstrate autonomy in evaluating outputs of analytical packages and apply them solve complex business problems.
• Communicate to diverse audiences through a range of media.
• Challenge assumptions based on robust evidence.
• Work independently/collaboratively.
• Incorporate critical, ethical accountability in relation to self, others, and academic/practice community.