Canisius College will introduce a new master's of science degree in data analytics, beginning in fall 2018. This new and emerging field applies fundamental scientific principles to the analysis of large, complex data sets. At Canisius, the data analytics program will function as a uniquely interdisciplinary major designed to provide students with a graduate-level education in three core components of the field: statistics, computer science and business (including accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing).

"Data analytics is becoming a necessity for U.S. businesses, which consider it a key tool for investigating complex issues, identifying and solving problems, better decision-making and providing an edge over competitors," explained Sara Morris, Ph.D., associate vice president for academic affairs at Canisius College. "As technology advances and companies seek further efficiency and data-driven decision making, demand for data analysts is projected to grow significantly over the next several years."

Graduates of the MS in data analytics program will be adept at applying a broad range of computational and statistical methods, including exploratory and predictive analytic tools, to large data sets. They will possess a broad understanding of the principles of statistical reasoning, which will allow them to understand and assess the utility of new statistical tools as they become available and to put those tools to practical use.

Students will also graduate with flexible computational skills, including proficiency in at least one general purpose programming language and at least one modern statistical package. Additionally, they will understand modern approaches to databases and data storage structures "so they may rapidly learn new tools and packages and maintain their own professional capabilities as new technology and procedures evolve," continued Morris.

In addition to the program's focus on the three core components, the data analytics program will also emphasize the development of student capabilities in three crucial "soft" areas: the ability to work in collaborative, multidisciplinary teams; the ability to communicate effectively with different audiences; and the ethics of data stewardship.

"A key issue of our increasingly-connected digital lives means that ever-increasing amounts of personal information becomes available to government agencies and commercial ventures alike," Morris said. "By the completion of the program, Canisius graduates will have a strong grounding in the ethical use of big data."

Considered "the next frontier for innovation," data analysts will be prepared for careers in a vast number of fields including market research, financial fund management, insurance and risk management, cyber security, and sports analytics.

To learn more about the new master's of science degree in data analytics, visit www.canisius.edu/academics/programs/data-analytics.