Business Analytics for Decision Makers

The MSc in Business Analytics for Decision Makers seeks to provide non-cognate (NFQ Level 8/international equivalent) undergraduate degree holders with key skills and a robust theoretical underpinning of the role of analytics in informing decision making in the business context. The programme will equip non-cognate learners with essential analytic capabilities, allowing them to interact with data scientists and engineers with a view to improving evidence-based decision making. The programme is designed to prepare students for a career in roles that both involve and interact with data science. In this way, the programme is viewed as a one-year conversion course (full-time) for qualified degree holders seeking to transition to a career as a business analyst but not necessarily as data scientists. The programme has been aligned with the National Qualifications Framework to engender the required knowledge and skills that allow learners to graduate from this Level 9 programme. The programme will seek to advance learners’ systematic and integrated knowledge of key theories, concepts, principles and applications that pertain to data science and related disciplines, while also preparing learners for further study through the promotion of independent research and critical decision making and for participation in business through engagement in adaptive problem-solving, communication, and teamwork in diverse contexts.



The above will be achieved through a mix of modules (statistics for data analytics, data governance and ethics, business data strategy and management, science of decision making, introduction to analytics programming) and assessments which will seek to evaluate learners’ knowledge of key data science disciplines, assess their ability to apply this knowledge technically in the analysis and presentation of business data and business information, and provide meaningful and authentic opportunities for collaboration, self-reflection, and complex problem-solving.



Who is the course for?

This course is aimed at individuals seeking to develop an understanding of business analytics for use in decision making. Additionally, the course can provide a transition stage for graduates seeking to transition into a career as Business Analysts and Project Managers, two of the most sought-after positions in the Information Systems sector.

Core Modules

• Business Intelligence

• Statistical Methods

• Science of Decision Making

• Effective Leadership in the Organisation

• Data Governance and Ethics

• Data Visualization

• Research Methods

• Dissertation



Elective Modules

• Big Data and AI in Business

• HR Analytics and Evidence based Decision Making

• Data Exploration and Preparation

• Strategic Project Management

Applicants are required to hold a minimum of a 2.2 honours degree in either a cognate or noncognate area at level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications. The College operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme meaning non-graduates with extensive professional experience and other prior qualifications may also be considered for the course.



Laptop Requirement

All students applying to NCI must have access to a laptop that will allow them to attend classes online and, where relevant, to participate in oncampus learning. Some students may be able to avail of the Student Laptop Loan Scheme, subject to eligibility.

Application: Apply online at www.ncirl.ie

1 year, taught 2 semesters (Sep-Dec and Jan-May) 1 semester (June-Aug) for dissertation (due in August)



Delivery

90% face to face and 10% synchronous online delivery



Indicative Timetable

Students need to be available 09.00-17.00 Mon – Fri. Full-time students may also be required to attend classes after 5pm. Class days and times vary.

Start Date: September 2025.

Award and Progression

The MSc in Business Analytics for Decision Makers course is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. This award will allow transfer to level 9 research degrees and in some cases progression to taught doctoral courses at level 10 on the NFQ.