University of Nebraska–Lincoln graduates who earn undergraduate degrees between May 2020 and May 2021 can now pursue an advanced degree in business analytics through a special program offering a discounted tuition rate. The new GRAD2GRAD program provides savings for students earning a Master of Science in Business Analytics degree in order to help offset hiring deflation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our master’s degree in business analytics was a great fit for the new GRAD2GRAD program as students will develop expertise in utilizing data which will be in high demand in this ever-changing economy,” said Tammy Beck, associate dean of graduate programs and executive education, who provided leadership for initiating the special offering. “Our graduates receive a 15 percent tuition discount on the entire master’s program if they enroll in at least one online, eight-week course in the semester following their graduation. In addition, Nebraska graduates who earned a 3.2 GPA or higher receive automatic acceptance into the program without needing to complete the GMAT.”

Dr. Jennifer Ryan, Ron and Carol Cope Professor of Supply Chain Management and Analytics and department chair, noted the business analytics master’s program provides extra preparation in an area where businesses are clamoring to fill jobs.

“This program enhances your marketability regardless of your undergraduate area of study,” Ryan said. “The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically shows how data analytics is vital for careers in health care, education, government and business. Managers across the globe have to make projections and change strategies on a daily basis. Our master’s in business analytics prepares students to make data-driven decisions to solve complex workplace challenges.”

Designed for those who want to sharpen their quantitative and analytics skills and gain exposure to business fundamentals, the program takes place in eight-week sessions conducted entirely online. Full-time students who typically enroll in two classes per term can usually complete the program within one year and no prerequisites are required, which makes it compatible with any undergraduate major.

“The introductory Business Analytics (GRBA 851) course covers all statistics background required for the program,” Ryan said. “Students should have proficiency in Microsoft Excel before entering, and for those who don’t, learning resources can be found at the Microsoft support website.” 

Students in the program also may work with a career coach from the College of Business Career Center. Career coaches offer guidance on how best to market competencies and improve career strategy, in addition to conducting résumé reviews and connecting students with a vast alumni network.

“I chose to enroll in the MSBA program after my summer internship was cancelled due to COVID-19. I was especially interested since it is offered 100 percent online as I accepted a teaching assistant position in Lille, France, for the 2020-21 school year,” said Bonnie Longan, a May 2020 graduate in accounting, who starts her full-time position as an audit associate for BKD in September 2021.

Students should apply by July 1 to enroll in the fall term and by November 1 to enroll in the spring term.

To learn more about the GRAD2GRAD program and read frequently asked questions, visit: https://business.unl.edu/promo/grad2grad/.