Message From Academic Director

Welcome to the HKUST MSc in Business Analytics program, where we foster the development of exceptionally employable graduates who are equipped to rise to the challenges presented by the future of work, driven by technological advancements and evolving business landscapes. Our primary focus is not merely on the execution stage of analyzing business data but on developing skillsets for value creation with the ability to communicate across various business stakeholders.

In today's rapidly changing business environment, the demand for individuals with expertise in business analytics, who possess both analytic/technical and business skills, far exceeds the supply. As organizations worldwide strive to harness the power of data-driven decision-making, there is a scarcity of professionals who possess the technical knowledge, analytical acumen, and strategic mindset necessary to drive innovation and create value. While technical skillsets can be acquired outside of a business school, our program, which is intentionally intensive to produce the best outcomes, offers a distinctive combination of skillsets. Leveraging our world-class Business School integrated within our top-ranked, albeit young, University of Science and Technology, we provide a comprehensive education that equips graduates with the necessary tools to excel in the dynamic field of business analytics.

We seek to train individuals who can thrive in various jobs within the business analytics spectrum, for example, depending on your background and qualifications, our program can equip you with the necessary expertise to excel as a data analytics translator, a cyber-security consultant, an expert in people analytics, a product manager, or to leverage your existing accounting or financial services skills with advanced data analytics capabilities. Our top alumni have gone on to work at some of the leading firms in a variety of positions, to name a few, McKinsey, KPMG, Goldman Sachs, PwC, Citigroup, Tencent, Alibaba, and AIA.

Our carefully curated program is designed to be beneficial to three target groups: 

1. Recent graduates and business professionals:
   • Equips them with technical knowledge and analytical skills.
   • Enables them to gain a competitive edge.
2. Technically skilled graduates and engineers;
   • Helps them leverage their expertise in the business world.
3. Experienced professionals enrolled in our 2 year Part-Time program
   • Support them in upskilling their competitiveness in the rapidly evolving business landscape

Throughout the program, we focus on developing students' confidence and skillsets in effective communication and strategy. It is important to note that due to the intensive nature of the program, prospective applicants should already possess basic skills in statistics and relevant programming languages such as SQL and Python.

So how do we do it? Our approach at the HKUST MScBA program is centered around bridging the gap between world-class education and the professional business world. We equip students to act as interfaces between data analytic technical teams and business counterparts, with a primary focus on value creation for all stakeholders involved. Our rigorous academic curriculum, taught by world-class faculty, focuses on giving students clear insights into all stakeholder perspectives, allowing them to easily navigate between teams to solve problems. We foster the development of lifelong learning skills crucial in this dynamic field, which is heavily impacted by changes in technology. To facilitate value creation, the program incorporates innovative discussion-based courses that promote deep engagement and critical thinking. Additionally, we integrate mandatory corporate-style training workshops to further cultivate creative and strategic thinking, familiarity with data ecosystems used within corporations, and exposure to cutting-edge data analytics tools. Importantly, through our corporate consulting track, students have the opportunity to engage in real consulting projects with participating companies, allowing them to apply their skills in practical settings and potentially attracting job offers. Furthermore, the program and students benefit from the active participation and guidance of our Corporate Advisory Board.

By joining our program, you will become a highly desired graduate, sought after by leading companies and industries. You will possess the skills to unlock actionable insights from complex data, make informed decisions, and drive meaningful outcomes. Your ability to bridge the gap between business and technology, coupled with strong communication and collaboration skills, will position you as a valuable asset in the workforce.

Invest in your future and seize this opportunity to become an in-demand professional in the field of business analytics. Join the HKUST MSc in Business Analytics program and emerge as a highly desired graduate who can make a significant impact in the digital era.