Pre-Skills

Students join the Smith School with a variety of technical skills and educational and professional backgrounds. In the MS in Business Analytics program, students will use Python, R, SQL, and Tableau in their first semester. Incoming students do not need to be proficient with these tools prior to the start of classes, however, having some prior experience could help them learn more effectively. The resources below have been compiled to assist incoming students with preparing for their master's coursework.

UMD students have unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning, an online library of instructional videos covering the latest software, creative, and business skills.

 

Recommended January Workshops

The Smith Master Student Association (SMSA), together with the Masters Programs Office, frequently hosts Academic Skill-Building Workshops for current students. Incoming MS in Business Analytics students are expected to attend the following Analytics Bridge Program Workshops if they do not have prior experience with these topics. Zoom login information will be sent to registered attendees via email the evening prior to the workshop. 

Introduction to Data Science with R Workshop 
Sunday, January 12, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Cost: $5
Registration: https://go.umd.edu/R011225 (registration closes January 11 at 4:00 p.m.)

Introduction to SQL Workshop 
Sunday, January 26, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Cost: $5
Registration: https://go.umd.edu/SQL012625 (registration closes January 25 at 4:00 p.m.)

 

Optional Assignments and Reading