Study Synchronously Online or On Campus: It's Your Choice STEM-Certified Program
The Business Intelligence and Database Systems program at Touro University is designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic field of visualizing complex data. Through a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with hands-on training, students gain expertise in a variety of data visualization techniques, tools, and technologies, enabling them to effectively communicate insights and narratives through compelling visual representations.
Emphasizing the development of critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating the ever-expanding realm of data visualization, the program prepares students for diverse career opportunities. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue roles such as data visualization specialists, information designers, data analysts, and business intelligence professionals. Coursework encompasses a wide range of topics, including interactive visualization, visual analytics, and data storytelling, providing students with a solid foundation in both the technical and artistic aspects of data visualization.
By mastering the art of transforming complex data into meaningful visual representations, graduates of the Business Intelligence and Database Systems program at Touro University play a crucial role in aiding decision-making processes across various industries. Whether you aspire to make an impact in data-driven organizations, research institutions, or creative agencies, our program equips you with the expertise and tools needed to succeed. Contact us today to discover how our program can help you realize your career aspirations in this exciting and rapidly growing field.
Career options include:
• Data Analyst
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Data Engineer
• Database Administrator
Program Requirements
4
Business Intelligence and Database Systems
Required Courses
12 credits
+
3
Business Intelligence and Database Systems
Elective Courses
9 credits
+
4
Program
Core Courses
12 credits
=
11
Program
Total Courses
33 credits
Business Intelligence and Database Systems Required Courses
-
MDAN 631
Fundamentals of Visual Data Analytics
- Data visualization is an essential storytelling tool for exploratory and explanatory analysis.
This course navigates real-world business problems across different industries, focusing on
iteratively deriving solutions through static and interactive dashboards. Students will gain
hands-on experience with the latest cloud BI software, ingesting data and structuring relations
between disparate sources. Working in agile-like weekly sprints, students will learn to identify
patterns and anomalies, conduct prescriptive analyses, and effectively communicate insights to
influence decision making of technical and non-technical stakeholders.
3 Credits -
MDAN 632
Interactive Data Visualization
- Building upon the foundational skills acquired in the prerequisite course, Interactive Data
Visualization delves deeper into the intricacies of data analysis and visualization techniques.
Through a combination of theoretical concepts and practical applications, students will explore
advanced topics in data visualization, leveraging more robust features and functionalities. This
course emphasizes the development of advanced dashboard designs tailored to specific business
needs and objectives. Students will learn advanced techniques for data aggregation, filtering,
and calculations to create dynamic and interactive visualizations that facilitate deeper
insights and understanding of complex datasets. By the end of the course, students will have the
skills and knowledge to tackle sophisticated data visualization challenges, extract actionable
insights from diverse datasets, and effectively communicate findings to stakeholders at all
levels of an organization.
Prerequisite: MDAN 631
3 Credits -
MSIN 627
Multi-Dimensional Analytics and Visualization
- The course introduces the practice of managing data as corporate assets by organizations to gain
competitive advantage and meet regulatory demand. The course will also describe the data
management emerging profession, and skills required to perform the various data management
functions for each role.
Prerequisite: MSIN 615
3 Credits -
MSIN 637
Principles of Data Analysis
- This course is a hands-on introduction to the field of Data Analytics where students will learn
the concepts and tools needed throughout the analysis process from formulating the research
question to obtaining, cleaning, and collating data to making inferences and publishing results.
Students will also learn how to formulate research questions in “data terms” so that it can be
analyzed and identify the limitations imposed by the available data. Students will become versed
in sorting data, filtering data and creating data totals. They will learn how to use Pivot
Tables. They will also master Statistical Functions, Text Functions, Database Functions, Lookup
Functions, and Date and Time Functions among others. Students will be introduced to data types,
control structures, functions, and debugging tools. They will learn how to acquire data, what it
means to clean data by removing inconsistencies and reformat data so that it can be analyzed by
statistical tools.
Corequisite: MSIN 616
3 Credits
Business Intelligence and Database Systems Elective Courses
-
MDAN 621
R for Data Analytics
- Students will learn about the basics and fundamentals of R programming/syntax to eventually
being able to write R scripts. R will be used to solve problems related to data. Students will
learn to assign variables and perform simple operations with vectors. Students will also learn
about lists, matrix, arrays and data frames. To complete the basics, the course will cover
conditional statements, functions, classes and debugging. Students will advance to reading and
writing data in R, in either table format (CSV, Excel) or in a text file (.txt). Finally,
students will cover important functions for character strings and dates in R.
3 Credits -
MDAN 622
Python for Data Analytics
-
This course introduces the basics of the python programming environment, including fundamental
python programming techniques such as lambdas, reading and manipulating csv files, and the NumPy
library. The course will introduce data manipulation and cleaning techniques using the popular
python pandas data science library and introduce the abstraction of the Series and DataFrame as
the central data structures for data analysis, along with tutorials on how to use functions such
as group by, merge, and pivot tables effectively. By the end of this course, students will be
able to take tabular data, clean it, manipulate it, and run basic inferential statistical
analyses.
Pre-or Corequisite: MDAN 608 & MDAN 610
3 Credits -
MDAN 623
Statistics for Data Analytics
- This course introduces univariate data analysis methods using statistics. Data visualization
methods and practices, and an overview of sampling techniques for data collection. Specifically,
this course teaches introductory statistical methods for the analysis and visualization of data
and basic concepts of probability theory. Course topics include descriptive statistics, data
visualization techniques, an introduction to statistical inference (confidence intervals and
hypothesis testing) for decision making, linear regression models, data sampling techniques. The
students will learn the statistical package SPSS to analyze data sets from real-world
applications.
3 Credits -
MSIN 614
Data Transformation, Migration and Integration
- This course combines lectures with hands-on labs to teach students necessary skills to install,
upgrade, manage & administer SQL Server instances and databases for performance, high
availability &Disaster Recover. Topics covered in the class will include System Databases, Data
Files, Log Files & Check Points, Memory CPU and Disk Redundancy Discussions, indexing and query
optimization, Database backup and restoration, Log Shipping, Database Mirroring, Database
Replication, Database Snapshots, Security, Policy Based Management, SQL Agent, Task Scheduling&
Automation, Database Mail, Database Maintenance Plans, Monitoring, Alerting & Tuning, Blocking
Transitions & Dedicated Administrator Connection.
Prerequisite: MSIN 615
3 Credits -
MSIN 616
Advanced Database Management and Data Analytics
- Building on Database Management and Administration, the course explores additional data modeling
techniques, concepts of database integrity and transaction management, stored procedures,
user-defined functions, database programming, query optimization, performance and tuning, and
other advanced SQL topics.
Prerequisite: MSIN 615
3 Credits -
MSIN 633
Data Modeling, Analysis, and Visualization
- This course combines lectures with hands-on labs to help students understand transaction
systems, data warehouses, fact and dimension tables, design custom columns, custom tables and
create multi-dimensional data models based on a wide variety of data sources. Dashboards and
widgets of varying complexities will be created using hierarchies, expressions, and functions
for data analysis, visualization and decision support.
Pre- or Corequisite: MSIN 616
3 Credits -
MSIN 664
Artificial Intelligence: Principles and Practice
- This course explores the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and applicable AI terms,
introduces the students to Machine Learning and Prompt Engineering concepts, Generative AI and
Large Language Models, fundamentals of AI Algorithms, why consider leveraging AI in Cloud, and
responsible AI (emphasizing ethical considerations) in AWS and Azure.
Prerequisite: MDAN 610
3 Credits -
MSIN 675
Professional Internship Experience
- This course is an elective course for majors in any concentration within the MS in UX/UI and
Interactive Design, MS in Web and Application Development, MS in Cybersecurity and Network
Administration, MS Technology Leadership & Project Management, MS in Data Analytics, MS in
Business Intelligence & Database Systems, MS in Information Systems. The candidate will work in
a professional environment, for a minimum of 480 hours over a period of at least two semesters.
Candidates may secure an internship independently or may work with the GST Department of Career
Services. Weekly logs and examples of work are required for the successful completion of the
internship, and are reviewed by the Faculty Internship Coordinator, upon completion of the
internship. The purpose of the internship is to provide candidates with practical, hands-on
experience in their chosen field of expertise to complement their coursework. International
students are required to apply for CPT for eligibility to work during their internship. The
Internship MUST be approved in advance by the Program Chair.
3 Credits -
MSIN 677
Advanced Data Visualization
- In this course, students will explore data analytics and visualization. The course will begin by
reviewing analytical methods with an emphasis on the art of crafting compelling data stories.
Through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on tutorials, students will learn how to transform
datasets into visualizations and dashboards that communicate key findings and that utilize
visual design principles. By the course's end, students will be equipped to present insightful,
data-driven narratives that enable decision-makers to discern trends and make informed
choices.
Prerequisite: MSIN 627
3 Credits -
MSIN 678
Business Intelligence Through Data Visualization and Power BI
- This course combines lectures with hands-on labs to teach students necessary skills to connect
to Various Data sources, Transform Data, Design Data Models, create, manage, and format
Charts/Visuals/DashBoards using various data sources e.g. excel files, SQL Server Databases, and
MS Access databases etc. of various complexities & Work with Filtering
Students will start with connecting to Datasources, transform data, design models and create
simple charts and move onto designing more complex Models and charts of various types including
analyzing data over time, trends analysis etc. Advanced formatting, DAX expressions and
Filtering will be utilized to make charts stand out.
Prerequisite: MSIN 627
3 Credits
Any Other Elective Approved by the Dean
M.S. in Business Intelligence and Database Systems Core Management Courses
-
MSIN 605
Strategic Management of Technology
- Enterprises in many industries are driven by the need to achieve technological innovation in
order to prosper or even survive. This course focuses on the strategic management of technology
and innovation in firms of various types. These technology innovations can encompass software,
hardware, or other forms of technology and even the very processes needed to design, develop,
and manufacture the resultant technological products. Students develop an understanding of
technological innovation and the issues and strategies for organizing, managing, diffusing, and
protecting innovation. This broadens the horizons of students who have concentrated on technical
computing and Information Technology courses and require enrichment in the area of managerial
science.
3 Credits -
MSIN 607
Effective Oral and Written Communication for Managers
- Emphasizes the importance of good communication skills for corporate managers in the business
world. This course identifies and reviews the foundations of business communication - listening,
speaking, writing, and reading - and broadens students' experience by building communication
skills using technologies and practical business applications. The goal of this course is for
students to become confident, flexible, and resourceful communicators in the competitive
intercultural global business community.
3 Credits -
MSIN 609
Information Technology Project Management
- This course is an introductory course that provides the fundamental principles of technology
project management. In this course, students will learn how to use Project Management Best
Practices to bring order to the otherwise chaotic world of information technology projects, by
defining a set of guidelines and standards, and then adhering to them. The student will learn to
view Project Management as a set of tools that are an integral part of business strategy. In
addition, students will receive a unique perspective on the issues surrounding the management of
information technology projects in various organizations.This course will provide students with
a solid foundation in IT Project Management.
3 Credits -
MSIN 695
Capstone Course: Information Systems Research Project Seminar
- Provides students with the opportunity to plan a major research paper or project and implement
it from start to finish using a combination of their conceptual, technical, and applied
knowledge. As the capstone course in the program, the project developed draws on the skills and
knowledge gained throughout the program. Project deliverables have deadlines staggered
throughout the semester. Must be taken in last semester.
3 Credits
Business Intelligence and Database Systems Preparatory Courses
Students with insufficient background in computer science or information systems degree, will be required to complete some or all of these courses:
-
MDAN 608
Introduction to Programming
- This course introduces students to problem solving techniques used in programming. Students will
learn object-oriented and event driven programming concepts including language constructs,
logical structures, file management and error trappings. Students will program in the Alice 2.3
3-D Programming Language Environment that was specifically developed to make learning
programming more accessible and exciting to students. Students will learn how to create and use
objects and their properties and methods, as well as how to write code for custom object
methods. Students will utilize programming control structures such as loops, selection
structures, methods, and classes.
3 Credits -
MSIN 512
IT Software and Security Principles
- This course provides an introduction to the computer hardware, software, and security skills
needed to meet the growing demand for entry - level information technology (IT) professionals.
It covers the fundamentals of PC computer technology, networking, and security with emphasis on
the software portion of the CompTIA A+ 220-802 certification examination. Students develop
working knowledge of how computers operate, how to assemble computers, how to troubleshoot
hardware and software issues, and implement computer system security.
3 Credits -
MBAN 503
Introduction to Statistics
- This course is structured to enable students to develop and increase their competence in the
broad area of statistics and quantitative analysis. Each PowerPoint module will provide
definition of terms, the statistics, examples of applied usage & its interpretation. External
readings and audiovisual recordings of key concepts will also be required.
1 Credit -
MDAN 609
Introduction to Analytical Processes (Excel)
- This course will allow the student to comprehend and appreciate creating and working with excel
lists. Using multiple worksheets and workbooks. Applying excel editing and web tools. Developing
an excel application. Students will use tutorial lab exercises to grasp the above excel
concepts.
1 Credit -
MDAN 610
Introduction to Database
- This course covers the database concepts that are the foundation and building blocks of sound
database design and management. It explains why good database design is critical to the accurate
and efficient storage and retrieval of data. The course will explore database design techniques
such as database models, database modeling/design tools using Microsoft Visio. The course
identifies the functions provided by a database management system to help insure the integrity
of data. It teaches students how to design a database that maximizes data integrity using
normalization techniques. Students will use MS Access interface to create and populate a
database. It also covers the use of SQL to create and populate tables, retrieve and update data.
3 Credits -
MSIN 511
Technology Concepts and Essentials
- The IT Essentials (ITE) curriculum emphasizes practical experience to help students develop
fundamental computer and career skills. ITE helps students prepare for entry-level career
opportunities in ICT and the CompTIA A+ certification. The course also provides a learning
pathway to Cisco CCNA.
1 Credit
Check out our Data Anayltics student, Cansu Mericli, and visit her Spotlight article HERE to see about her experience with Touro