Business Analytics

Stage 1

You will develop the knowledge and skills to be able to select appropriate tools and techniques to collect and manage data and to develop decision-making processes based on data analysis. You will gain an understanding of programming concepts for business analytics. 

Stage 2

You will learn to employ data visualisation and business intelligence software to explore, analyse and present data for a range of audiences. You will develop the knowledge and programming skills required to prototype business analytics applications and you will consider the legal and ethical principles and policies which govern data collection and management. 

Stage 3

You will research, develop and deliver a Business Analytics project, integrating the skills and knowledge developed in the earlier stages of the course. This self-directed piece of work can be completed in an area of your choosing as an applied analytics project for a live client or problem, or a research-based Dissertation in a related area.

Activity Summary

You will engage with the course through online or on campus learning materials, lectures, tutorials, industry-led workshops and live client projects. These comprise of a mix of group study, discussion, simulation and presentations of findings by teams and individuals. In most cases lectures and tutorials are combined and integrated into workshops.

Access to our virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle, is also provided giving you access from home to learning materials (including videos, e-books and journals).

• Lectures - 15 - 60 students per group, 3 - 4 hours per week
• Tutorial - 15 - 30 students per group, 3 - 4 hours per week
• Project Supervision - 1 student per group, 0.5 hours per week
• Practical class or workshop - 15 - 30 students per group, 3 - 6 hours per week
• Supervised time in studio / workshop - 3 - 4 hours per week
• Field Work - varies
• External Visits - varies

How long is a Business Analytics course?

This Business Analytics course can be successfully completed in:

• 12 months (full time on campus)
• 3 years (part time on campus)
• 24 months (part time online learning)

Assessment

Typically students are assessed:

• 3 written assignments, including essays
• 4 reports
• 1 dissertation (or project)
• 2 portfolios
• 1 project output (or dissertation)
• 3 practical skills assessments

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.

Staff Delivering on This Course

The teaching team have industry, professorial and doctoral knowledge of underpinning subjects. They bring experience from a variety of professional backgrounds including computing, digital marketing, digital media, ecommerce, data management, and information management.

Many staff members have featured in the annual Support and Teaching staff with Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) awards voted by the students and organised by RGU:Union.

The course also features contributions from guest lecturers and industry professionals who share experiences and best practice through a series of events and workshops.

Independent Study

The course requires you to become an independent 'open learner' and take responsibility for when, where and how your learning occurs. You will spend approximately 15-20 hours per week working on your own, undertaking research, preparing for group activities and preparing for class activities.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.

Online Learning & Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:

• Academic writing
• Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
• Maths and statistics
• English language
• Information technology support

Library Support

The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.

Placements

This course does not feature a separate placement, but features industry projects throughout, ensuring you leave with a portfolio of industry projects on your cv and an enhanced professional network.

Job Prospects

This Master's in Business Analytics is designed in response to a recognised shortfall of digital and data competencies. There is considerable demand for individuals who can initiate and manage data analytics projects, understand legal and ethical considerations in working with data, shape data cultures across organisations and communicate the results of data science and analytics projects to a range of stakeholders and audiences. With a curriculum designed to meet this skills gap, the job prospects leading from MSc Business Analytics are significant.

Is studying Business Analytics a good career choice?

The course will prepare you for a range of business and data analytics careers and roles in a wide range of sectors and industries.

Possible roles include:

• Business Analytics Manager
• Business Intelligence Officer
• Digital Analytics Manager
• Insight Analyst

What is needed for an MSc in Business Analytics?

• Applicants normally hold a 2:2 undergraduate honours degree or its equivalent in any subject area.
• Applicants with a lower degree classification and / or relevant work experience will be considered on a case by case basis. 
• Applicants who successfully achieve the RGU Pre-Masters Graduate Certificate Creative and Cultural Business are also eligible to apply or this Masters.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.

Additional Costs

The following course-related costs are not included in the course fees:

• Accommodation and living costs
• Printing

The Data Lab

*The Data Lab are providing fully funded places for September 2022 entry covering tuition fees, training and event participation.