It looks like there will be more potential employees with an understanding of data analytics, business intelligence, and machine learning, thanks to Microsoft and Easter Washington University.
Graduating with a degree doesn’t always get followed with success. Oftentimes students know how to put the right answer on test, but can’t find the right answer in the real-world. Microsoft and East Washington University have set out to erase the stigma and make graduates real-world ready by implementing a new business program, according to Forbes:
EWU announced, in August 2017, a new Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics degree program within its College of Business and Public Administration (CBPA). The new BS-DA degree differs from the existing BAB in Business Analytics by focusing more deeply on technical knowledge and including the Microsoft Professional Program (MPP) sequence to include current industry knowledge in data science.
What made Washington start such a program, was one of their Professors, Elizabeth Tipton. She studied a variety of subjects and became well rounded and informed on what the graduate needs to know to make an impact in the world immediately. The Author got a chance to sit down with her and ask her about Microsoft’s involvement with the program.
Microsoft came to EWU looking for ideas in how to strengthen the MPP program,” Tipton said. “In addition, our Washington location means that we can work closely with Microsoft to ensure the blend of our academic knowledge and teaching skills with their technical understanding, to better provide our students a robust foundation for working world.
Microsoft shared a similar interest with the university and wanted to get involved based on the their need for more people who had knowledge about analytics.
Programs like the one at East Washington University are important for the future of business and for universities. I can see where a class or program would not prepare a student for the real world. Students are prepared to take tests and pass them, and often don’t get an opportunity to showcase skills they have, or have not, learned in a real business environment. Analytics is an emerging piece of business that offers new opportunities to students entering an increasingly competitive job market.
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