An Online MBA Specializing in Data Analytics and Decision Making

MBA@UNC's Data Analytics and Decision Making concentration is designed for students who are looking to enhance their abilities to make strategic business decisions based on the use of data. Students will learn critical data analysis skills as well as develop the ability to communicate data-driven strategies throughout their organizations.

Data Analytics and Decision Making students will work with experienced faculty members to develop expertise and essential skills in this fast-growing field. The curriculum is designed to help students understand the role of analytical techniques and demonstrate the value of analytics in real-world decision-making contexts.

Career Outlook in Data Analytics

In a rapidly changing business world, the use of analytics has become a key element of successful growth. According to a study by the McKinsey Global Institute, it is estimated that by 2018, 4–5 million jobs will require data analysis skills. In addition, the increase in data analysts nationwide will also lead to a greater need for professionals who can accurately use the data being compiled by those in data analysis roles.

Data Analytics Job Market

All statistics via the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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Careers in Data Analytics and Decision Making

Students who earn an MBA concentrating in data analytics develop the skills to thrive in a number of roles, including:

• Business Intelligence — Whether working internally or as consultants, these professionals focus on using data and technology to improve business processes such as productivity, output and distribution.
• Data Analysis — This practice involves collecting complex data and performing statistical analysis with the goal of answering specific business questions.
• Marketing/Sales Analysis — These analysts study market conditions to help businesses make key decisions in areas such as product lines, customer targeting and price points.
• Statistics — With a focus on quantitative data, these individuals apply statistical theories to collect and analyze data for many purposes, including market research, public opinion, quality control and product development.

Job Titles in Data Analytics

Data Analytics Education at UNC Kenan-Flagler

Through a targeted curriculum and a host of career-focused resources, students in the Data Analytics and Decision Making concentration will learn how decision-making can be enhanced in modern organizations. Coursework will also help develop the ability to view business processes and relationships systematically and analytically.

Data Analytics and Decision Making Curriculum

Featured Faculty

Our data analytics concentration is led by faculty members who have extensive experience helping businesses use data to improve essential processes. Our faculty leverage their direct experience to lead collaborative classes and design practical coursework exercises.

Adam Mersereau, Associate Professor of Operations

Tarun Kushwaha, Associate Professor of Marketing

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Student Teams Achieving Results (STAR)

The STAR program allows students to actively serve as data-driven consultants to leading corporations and nonprofit organizations. Under the guidance of faculty advisors, students are tasked with developing comprehensive recommendations and actionable strategies. Learn more about the STAR program.

STAR Global

Students in the STAR Global program actively serve as consultants to clients based in China, India or Brazil. As with STAR, students are tasked with working side-by-side with clients to develop recommendations and actionable strategies. We complete more than 15 high-impact, action-oriented global consulting engagements each year.

National Case Competitions

Teams of MBA students represent UNC Kenan-Flagler in numerous national and international case competitions each year. Case competitions provide students with a chance to apply their industry and business knowledge and to present real-world solutions to pressing business issues while providing a forum to network with peers and professionals.

Basketball Analytics Summit

Each year, UNC Chapel-Hill hosts the SPEIA Basketball Analytics Summit. This two-day event brings together leading basketball experts and data enthusiasts from around the world to present cutting-edge research, discuss data best practices and learn how data can directly influence performance in sports.

Past sessions at the SPEIA Summit have included:

• Fan Experience and Engagement
• Individual Performance/APBRmetrics
• Marketing/Ticketing
• Sport Science
• Entrepreneurship in Analytics

Career-Building Resources and Services

Virtual Company Info Sessions

MBA@UNC offers live Virtual Company Information Sessions hosted by executives and alumni from companies in a wide range of industries, including data analytics. These virtual sessions mirror traditional in-person recruiting sessions, giving employers direct access to MBA@UNC students using the same face-to-face online platform used to host MBA@UNC classes.

Past sessions have featured data analysis executives from:

Career Fairs

The Career & Leadership Services team has exclusive access to national and specialized MBA conferences and career fairs and helps students prepare their resume or interview skills to make the most of their experience.

Targeted Career Search Guidance

The Career & Leadership Services team works with students one-on-one to create an individualized career management strategy designed to maximize each student's return on their investment. Learn more about the services available to students.

Student Success

MBA@UNC students who selected the Data Analytics and Decision Making concentration have gone on to achieve success at influential organizations around the world, including:

Learn More About MBA@UNC

Learn how UNC Kenan-Flagler's #1-ranked online MBA can help you advance your career in the field of data analytics by downloading our comprehensive program brochure.