Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Database Systems

Study Synchronously Online or On Campus: It's Your Choice

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:

Program Requirements

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

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

MAIN 610

AI Principles and Practice

This course explores the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing ethical considerations and practical applications across diverse sectors. Participants will gain essential AI knowledge, learn to evaluate ethical dilemmas, and enhance their ability to implement AI strategies in real-world scenarios, fostering innovative and ethical problem-solving skills.
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

MSIN 681, 682, 683

Professional Internship Experience 1, 2, 3

These courses provide students with the opportunity to integrate skills presented during course work into real world practice, as well as enhance their awareness of technology in their respective profession. The students will utilize their work as a means of enhancing the educational experience, making on-going strides academically with their professional work. The students will work in a professional environment for a minimum of 240 hours. Students are expected to secure an internship independently. International students are required to apply for CPT for eligibility to work during their internship. 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 students with practical, hands-on experience in their chosen field of expertise to complement their coursework. The Internship MUST be approved in advance by the Program Chair. Students may enroll in MSIN 681 only during the fall or spring semester. MSIN 683 will require students to complete one professional certification at the end of the course to demonstrate their proficiency in their field from the experience acquired throughout the internship and their classes.
1 Credit Each

Any Other Elective Approved by the Dean

Core Technology 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

IT 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

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

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 GST.

Non-Degree-Bearing Courses

MSIN 684, 685, 686

Professional Internship Experience 4, 5, 6

Through practice and participation in professional activities, students will be able to integrate skills presented during course work into real world practice, as well as enhance their awareness of technology in their respective profession. The students will utilize their work as a means of enhancing the educational experience, making on-going strides academically with their professional work. These courses are designed to continue advancement in professional development. These are elective courses which do not count towards the degree. The students will work in a professional environment for a minimum of 240 hours. Students are expected to secure an internship independently. International students are required to apply for CPT for eligibility to work during their internship. 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 students with practical, hands-on experience in their chosen field of expertise to complement their coursework. The Internship MUST be approved in advance by the Program Chair.
1 Credit Each