Implement advanced strategies for gathering, reviewing and analyzing data requirements
“The value of an idea lies in the using of it.” – Thomas A. Edison
Success in business increasingly depends on mastery of statistical analysis of very large amounts of data. High stakes decision making requires understanding of such tools as data analytics software and advanced analytics techniques, including predictive analytics, text analytics and text mining, customer analytics and data mining.
Business Analytics related professions (Logisticians, Operations Research Analysts, and Management Analysts) will see between a 23% increase to over 33% with some of the highest rates of growth across the United States of America. (Bureau of Labor Statistics 2021)
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Fiscal Year 2021), demand in this field is predicted to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. As technology advances and companies seek efficiency, optimization and cost savings, opportunities for employment in such positions as Operations Analyst, Logisticians, Supply Chain Analyst, Productivity Analyst, and Market Research Analyst will only increase.
Current starting median salaries of employees with bachelor’s degree in Business Analytics range from $82,260 to $92,500.
The Title III-funded ESA/STEM program will support creation of a major in Business Analytics, including the technological supports such a program requires.
The curriculum will include such courses as:
- Introduction to Business Analytics
- Modeling Methods
- Advanced Modeling Methods
- Analytics Communication and Management
- Marketing Analysis
- Risk Analytics
- Advanced Predictive Analysis Modeling
A new Business Analytics Lab will be constructed to provide students learning opportunities with the types of analytics software used by major corporations.
The first courses in the Business Analytics degree program were offered in Fall 2021.
Course Information:
Dana Charles Walker, D.Mgt.
Title III Coordinator of Business Analytics
Degrees/educational institutions:
- Doctor of Management, Webster University, Webster Groves, MO
- Master in Business Administration, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
- Bachelors of Science in Business, Emporia State University
Previous relevant experience:
- Quincy University – Assistant Professor of Business 2016-present
- Shanghai University of Finance and Economics – Visiting Professor of Strategic Management 2014-2016
- Webster University – Adjunct Professor -2001- present
- IBM Corporation – Consulting Partner – IBM Software Group 1989-2014
To link our academic programs with current industry demands and requirements, I remain active in the following professional organizations and certifications:
Member of the Academy of Management (AOM), Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) formerly The Association for Operations Management (APICS), Certified CPIM and Risk Management. Strategic Management Society (SMS) Institute of Management Accountants, The Association of Accountants and Financial Professionals in Business (IMA); Institute of Operations Research and Management Science (INFORMS).
What are you most looking forward to in your Title III role?
I’m looking forward to introducing the new Business Analytics major to students in region to expand their career opportunities as well as bringing new and exciting technology and tools to the School of Business curriculum.
What can students hope to gain from improvements made by Title III in the area you coordinate?
The new curriculum will provide the immediate enhancement of skills that are in high demand from for-profit companies, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
