What Is a BS in Applied Business Analytics?
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Business Analytics from GCU is designed for students who have both a business mindset and an interest in using data and analytics to improve how businesses work. Students who study applied business analytics learn how to work with datasets to find meaning and answers to business questions. They can use the analytics skills of defining and implementing models to help predict what might happen and decide on a course of action.
At GCU, the BS in Applied Business Analytics degree program was created around set of important skills that graduates will need to be successful in the workplace. These include:
- Applying descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics techniques
- Making tactical and strategic business decisions
- Utilizing data mining techniques to extract meaningful information from large databases
- Assessing data collection techniques and their impact on business decisions
- Using appropriate project management techniques to effectively manage analytics-related projects
- Effectively communicating complex analytics-derived information to stakeholders
The Difference Between GCU’s Applied Business Analytics and Business Analytics Bachelor of Science Degrees
Grand Canyon University offers both a Bachelor of Science in Applied Business Analytics and a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics. Both programs prepare students for career options in business and analytics.
The coursework for the BS in Business Analytics focuses on business practices, while also including instruction in data visualization, data mining and predictive and prescriptive models.
However, in the BS Applied Analytics program, students focus more on the fundamentals of database structures, data mining, business analytics and project management. They also look into governance and ethics within the realm of businesses technology to prepare for an audit, comply with government regulations, and understand data-privacy issues. Coursework is focused on a mix of database and analytical skills. Students learn to use core business knowledge and data to solve business problems using an analytics approach.
Learn to Drive Business Decisions With an Analytics Expertise
This applied business analytics Bachelor of Science degree from GCU combines coursework in business, analytics and technology. Because analytics and technology can be closely connected, information technology project management is also addressed in the program.
This BS in Applied Business Analytics program is transfer-friendly. It is specifically targeted toward students who have an existing foundation in areas of business, such as accounting, finance, marketing and management.
In this program, students use technological tools, computer knowledge and databases to learn foundational analytics concepts. The coursework is designed to improve problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This applied business analytics degree program prepares students to look for, analyze and interpret data. This process is then used to support effective decision-making. Graduates become integral parts of data-driven business environments.
Apply Business Knowledge and Analytical Skills
Graduates of the GCU Bachelor of Science in applied business analytics degree program learn to communicate analytics-related information to multiple stakeholders. They can follow industry-specific laws, regulations and ethical practices. Upon graduation, students have the ability to apply statistical analysis and modeling to data to enable effective business practices.
These skills prepare applied business analytics grads for several career opportunities. They may find work as:
- Business analysts
- Business intelligence analysts
- Data analysts
- Business analytics managers
- Business intelligence managers
- Operations analysts
- Financial analysts
- Project managers
- Quality assurance managers
If you are passionate for both business and data, a degree in analytics could be the right path for you. Find out by learning more about the GCU Bachelor of Science in Applied Business Analytics degree program.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-112, Success in Science, Engineering and Technology & Lab: 4
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, crosscultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Program Core Courses
Course Description
This course provides the foundation of core knowledge within the field of information technology. Topics include technology-centric organizations, the type and role of fundamental information technology systems, data management to include privacy and security, e-business and m-business, hardware, software, and computer networks.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the practical application of descriptive and inferential statistics in business. Topics include probability, probability distributions, the central limit theorem, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression. Prerequisite: MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course examines the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of relational database structures. Emphasis is on appropriate application and implementation. Prerequisite: BIT-200 or BIT-205 or CST-110, or CST-111 or CST-105.
Course Description
This course covers the characteristics of object-relational databases and their application in business. The course also focuses on the main principles of object-oriented and object-relational databases, and their relative advantages. Students gain working knowledge of object-relational features as implemented in standard SQL database management systems. Students also learn to manage unstructured and semi-structured data with XML. Prerequisite: SYM-400.
Course Description
This course examines basic business analytics concepts with specific emphasis on descriptive analytics. Students are introduced to techniques and selected industry tools relevant for describing data behavior. Prerequisites: BIT-200, BIT-205, or CST-111; and MAT-274 or BUS-352.
Course Description
This writing intensive course examines the role of governance and ethics within information technology. Topics include understanding and satisfying Sarbanes/Oxley, preparing for an information technology audit, complying with government regulations such as HIPAA, and understanding data-privacy issues. Students examine real-world case studies. Prerequisite: BIT-200, BIT-205, CST-110, or CST-111.
Course Description
This course examines information technology project management. Topics include the reasons why IT projects fail, the business cost of IT failure, managing IT teams, outsourcing, virtual teams, scope definition, project scheduling, risk mitigation, and leading successful projects. Additional topics focus on using project management to build an analytics organization. Prerequisite: BIT-200, BIT-205, CST-110, or CST-111.
Course Description
This course covers key concepts related to predictive and prescriptive analytics by combining information technologies and statistical techniques to extract meaning from organizational data. Students apply predictive and prescriptive analytics techniques in order to understand the business environment and guide business-related decisions. Use of selected industry tools to apply predictive and prescriptive analytics techniques is also addressed. Prerequisite: BIT-430.
Course Description
This course covers basic concepts and techniques related to data mining. A key goal of the course is evaluating data in order to make business-related decisions. Use of selected industry tools to perform data mining is also addressed. Prerequisite: BUS-352.
Course Description
This course builds upon the techniques and tools presented in prior courses in the program and focuses on how analytics are applied in contemporary organizations. Students use critical thinking skills to frame analytics problems, build and apply appropriate analytics models, and communicate relevant findings. Prerequisites: BIT-415 and BIT-435.
Program Locations
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.
On-campus program disclosures (4 years) Online and Evening program disclosures (4 years)
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Program subject to change.