Why choose data science and business analytics at the Ilitch School?

The master of science in data science and business analytics (MSDSBA) degree program at Wayne State University represents a cutting-edge initiative offered jointly by the Mike Ilitch School of Business, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the College of Engineering. Whether you are aiming to break into the analytics industry or seeking a promotion within your organization, our interdisciplinary program equips you with the skills to navigate the intricate process of transforming data into actionable insights for sound business decisions. 

Our program curriculum, guided by faculty experts, showcase computing, business, statistics and operations knowledge essential for tackling complex data science and business analytics challenges. Specialize your skill set by choosing one of our four program concentrations. 

The MSDSBA program incorporates high-impact practices for success, including team-based learning and research in Wayne State's state-of-the-art high-performance computing infrastructure, offering a unique learning experience. Our robust advisory board and collaborative projects with industry partners actively ensure that you establish a strong network within the analytics community.

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Explore the program

  • Upon graduation, our students showcase a comprehensive understanding of the field with the ability to integrate business skills across disciplines. Through a combination of data science, computing, elective courses and practicum projects, the interdisciplinary curriculum covers a range of subjects, like:

    • Acquisition, management and use of large and fast-moving streams of data
    • Creation and interpretation of mathematical models 
    • Development of analytical projects
    • Identification and framing of business problems

    The Ilitch School’s MSDSBA program accommodates diverse student needs, allowing them to tailor their academic journey to their schedules. With in-person and online courses available, full-time students can complete the program in one year, while part-time students can extend their studies over two years. 

    View MSDSBA program requirements

    Explore MSDSBA courses

    In order to meet the MSDSBA program requirements, all students must select one of the following concentrations. Each concentration includes common core strategy and leadership classes, unique major-specific courses and real-world practicum experiences that allow students to shape their academic focus according to their interests and professional goals. 

    • Advanced analytics: Become an analytics expert with courses in data mining, intelligence and machine learning. 
    • Data-driven business: Concentrate on areas like marketing, supply chain and intelligent systems to optimize business operations based on data. 
    • Data computing: Gain experience creating data models, using modern databases and implementing data applications. 

Student services and opportunities

Enhance your Ilitch School experience by actively engaging with our student opportunities and utilizing our support services.

 

In the heart of downtown Detroit, there’s no other place where you can gain the connections and impact the city offers…you’ll learn not only from the classroom but outside the classroom.

Ilitch School, Jad Hamdan, in studio head shot
Jad Hamdan ‘21
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Not only has it been a great experience with amazing professors, but it has been so flexible with my schedule.

Megan Ellis ‘19
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Meet the faculty

Our Ilitch School of Business professors are ready to take you to the next level. As accomplished researchers and seasoned business leaders, they know how to enrich your learning and sharpen your skills. See how their expertise can help shape your future.

See all TISA faculty

Ajit Sharma
Assistant Professor of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics

Teaching 

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Generative AI
  • Business Analytics
  • Emerging technologies
  • Innovation
  • Entrepreneurship

Research

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Generative AI
  • Robotics
  • Business Analytics
  • Innovation
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Industry 4.0
  • Social and Mobile Worlds
  • Sustainability

View Ajit Sharma's profile

gm5546@wayne.edu

Ahmed Mohamadean
Assistant Professor, Department of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics

 Core Course Coordinator for ISM3630

View Ahmed Mohamadean's profile

hn0916@wayne.edu

Frank Castronova, PhD
Part-time Faculty
Ajit Sharma
Assistant Professor of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics

Teaching 

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Generative AI
  • Business Analytics
  • Emerging technologies
  • Innovation
  • Entrepreneurship

Research

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Generative AI
  • Robotics
  • Business Analytics
  • Innovation
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Industry 4.0
  • Social and Mobile Worlds
  • Sustainability

View Ajit Sharma's profile

gm5546@wayne.edu

Yuxin Zhang
Assistant Professor of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics

Business Analytics, Risk Management, Digital Responsibility, and Policy Analytics.

View Yuxin Zhang's profile

yuxin_zhang@wayne.edu

Careers and outcomes

Learn more about advanced data science and business analytics careers and discover the support available as you set your career goals.

  • Graduates from our program make immediate and long-term impacts in business, industry and government as data science and analytics professionals. With the industry projected to grow at a historical rate of 35% over the next decade, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with a master’s in data science and analytics can anticipate a multitude of job opportunities with potential for career advancement and salary growth.

    Careers with a master’s in data science and business analytics include: 

    • Business development manager
    • Business systems analyst
    • Data architect
    • Data scientist
    • Market research analyst
    • Statistician

    Explore our career resources, like interview tips, advising services and a dress closet, for aspiring and current professionals. 

Career insights

This tool provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills, or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.

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Take the next step

Blend innovation, expertise and real-world application into an advanced analytics career with the Ilitch School’s Master of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics degree program.