A fast, flexible, AACSB-accredited credential built for immediate application in data-driven environments. The Southern Arkansas University Data Analytics Graduate Certificate is designed for professionals seeking focused, practical skills in data visualization, advanced business intelligence, and leveraging emerging data technologies for strategic decision-making.
Program Format & Flexibility
- Total hours: 12 (3 core hours + 9 elective hours)
- Formats: Online, on-campus evenings, or hybrid
- Typical pace: Can be completed in 1 year (including summer terms)
- The Stackable Advantage: Pathway to an SAU MBA
- Maximize your investment. This graduate certificate functions as a standalone micro-credential or as an integrated building block for your long-term education.
- Because the Rankin College of Business utilizes a unified graduate structure, all 12 credit hours completed in this certificate stack seamlessly into the Southern Arkansas University Master of Business Administration (MBA) with Data Analytics emphasis program. By starting with this certificate, you complete a significant portion of your MBA with Data Analytics emphasis requirements before formally entering the master’s degree program.
Curriculum
Core Course (3 hours)
- IS 5313 – Data Visualization
Business Elective (3 hours)
Select 3 hours from the following:
- MGMT 6043 – Business Analytics
- SCM 6003 – Enterprise Resource Planning
Computer Science Electives (6 hours)
Select 6 hours from the following:
- MCIS 6263 – Big Data
- MCIS 6273 – Data Mining
- MCIS 6283 – Machine Learning
Admissions
The admission process for graduate certificates at SAU is streamlined to remove barriers for industry professionals.
- Degree Requirement: A Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- GPA Standard: Applicants must meet the baseline standards established by the School of Graduate Studies.
- Testing: GMAT and GRE scores are not required for admission to this certificate program.
- Prerequisites: Foundational business prerequisites may be recommended for non-business undergraduate majors prior to enrollment in specific upper-level courses.
Career Outcomes
Projected industry data indicates an accelerating reliance on quantitative analysis and technical execution across all corporate domains. This credential establishes explicit, resume-ready expertise for roles including:
- Data Analyst / Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Visualization Specialist
- Operations Analyst
- Metrics & Analytics Consultant
- Strategic Technology Manager
Related Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a background in computer programming to enroll?
Can non-business undergraduate majors apply?
How does this program stack into the SAU MBA?
Accreditation
The Rankin College of Business is accredited by AACSB International, the premier accrediting body for colleges and schools of business. Fewer than 6% of all business programs worldwide are accredited by AACSB, which indicates the quality of our program.
