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Carnegie Mellon University - Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) Distance Track - Business Intelligence and Data Analytics

Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College offers a Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) that includes an online, distance track concentration in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics (BIDA). Housed in the school’s Department of Information Systems & Management, the BIDA program stresses a multi-disciplinary approach to data analytics and business intelligence, which integrates training in IT technologies used in the field with the business management and communications skills needed to effectively implement data-driven decisions. The degree requires students to complete 144 units of coursework, which equates to 12 semester-long courses. This can typically be accomplished in four-to-six semesters, or two-to-three years.

OnlineEducation.com classifies this program under both Data Analytics and Business Intelligence based on the different electives students can take to customize their program and curriculum.

The BIDA degree at Carnegie Mellon utilizes an interactive learning management system that allows students to access video lectures and other course materials on-demand, 24/7. This asynchronous mode of online instruction is designed to accommodate students who may be working full time or have significant family and professional obligations outside of school. In addition, some courses may incorporate web conferencing, class presentations, or other live components to facilitate interaction between students and faculty. Students can also communicate directly with instructors and classmates through live chats, e-mail, and phone and web conferences. The BIDA program does not require any on-campus visits.

The BIDA curriculum focuses on data analytics tools, business intelligence applications, and business management strategies. There are nine core requirements, which account for 60 of 144 units necessary for graduation. These include courses in Database Management, Data Warehousing, Data Mining, Exploring and Visualizing Data, Privacy in the Digital Age, and Advanced Business Analytics. The remaining 84 units can be completed through electives, which can include core courses from other Heinz College MSIT programs (Information Technology & Management; Information Security & Assurance; Software Design & Management). Examples include, Enterprise Architecture, Geographic Information Systems, Managing in a Virtual Environment, and Defensive Hacking. An independent study project can be used to substitute for up to 12 of those remaining 84 units, or the equivalent of two semester-long classes.

Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Carnegie Mellon University: Heinz College

Programs Offered: Analytics, Business Intelligence (Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT))
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Instruction Methods: Programs use asynchronous instruction where students can access lectures at anytime anywhere. Programs may require some live discussions or presentations where students must attend in real-time.
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Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) Distance Track - Business Intelligence and Data Analytics

Program Overview
Program Type: Analytics
Degree Conferred: Masters
Program Structure: Online instruction with no campus visits required
Example Courses: Exploring and Visualizing Data, Advanced Business Analytics, Data Warehousing, Economic Analysis
Program Website: www.heinz.cmu.edu
Degree Requirements
Credits Required: 144 units needed to graduate (equivalent to 48 credits)
Campus Visits Required: 0
Program Options
Program Start Dates: Three starts per year: Fall, Spring, Summer semesters
Curriculum Options: Part-time only
Length of Program: Program can be completed in 2 to 3 years (maximum of 5 years)
Admission Requirements and Tuition Costs
Degree Required for Admission: Bachelor's Degree
GPA Requirements: No minimum GPA to apply
Testing Requirements: GRE or GMAT required
Work Experience: Minimum of 3 years of full-time, relevant work experience
Tuition Costs: ~$71,085 + fees (full-time); ~$72,105 + fees (part-time)
Cost per Credit Hour: $475 per unit (equivalent to $1,425 per credit hour)
Eligibility Information: Program does not currently accept students from Alabama, Arkansas and Minnesota

Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) Distance Track - Business Intelligence and Data Analytics

Program Overview
Program Type: Business Intelligence
Degree Conferred: Masters
Program Structure: Online instruction with no campus visits required
Example Courses: Database Management, Data Warehousing, Data Mining, Applied Data Science
Program Website: www.heinz.cmu.edu
Degree Requirements
Credits Required: 144 units needed to graduate (equivalent to 48 credits)
Campus Visits Required: 0
Program Options
Program Start Dates: Three starts per year: Fall, Spring, Summer semesters
Curriculum Options: Part-time only
Length of Program: Program can be completed in 2 to 3 years (maximum of 5 years)
Admission Requirements and Tuition Costs
Degree Required for Admission: Bachelor's Degree
GPA Requirements: No minimum GPA to apply
Testing Requirements: GRE or GMAT required
Work Experience: Minimum of 3 years of full-time, relevant work experience
Tuition Costs: ~$71,085 + fees (full-time); ~$72,105 + fees (part-time)
Cost per Credit Hour: $475 per unit (equivalent to $1,425 per credit hour)
Eligibility Information: Program does not currently accept students from Alabama, Arkansas and Minnesota

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