Relying solely on gut instinct for business decisions can put companies at a competitive disadvantage as the volume of data generated and collected continues to increase. To make smarter decisions and develop effective strategies, businesses are turning to data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) skills. The University of Minnesota is redesigning its curriculum for the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) degree to meet the growing demand for talent in data analytics and AI. The updated curriculum incorporates input from employers, alumni, and members of the Carlson School's advisory board. Data analytics provides a substantial competitive advantage, leading to increased demand for data analyst roles.

The MSBA program at the University of Minnesota aims to train students in using AI tools like ChatGPT and prepares them for the job market, where the demand for data scientists is projected to grow by 35%. The new curriculum includes a course on "Responsible AI" to ensure the development of fair, secure, and transparent AI solutions. The program also offers an AI for Business track, providing students with in-depth technical knowledge and hands-on experience in using AI for business applications. Practical experience as data analytics consultants is also provided through the Carlson Analytics Lab. The university's MSBA program stands out for its technical rigor and emphasis on incorporating new AI tools to meet industry needs.