Pre-Skills/Analytics Bridge Program

Students join the Smith School with a variety of technical skills and educational and professional backgrounds. In the Online 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 coursework in the months leading up to their first semester.

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

Analytics Bridge Program Workshops

The Smith Master Student Association (SMSA), together with the Masters Programs Office, frequently hosts Academic Skill-Building Workshops for current students. Incoming Online 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. 

1. Introduction to Data Science with Python Workshop

Content will include:

  • Basic programming in Python
  • Reading different file formats in Python
  • Data Manipulation: Exploration and Cleaning NumPy and pandas
  • Data Visualization with seaborn
  • Saving different file formats in Python

Cost: $5 per student 
Date/Time: Saturday, January 6, 2024, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. eastern time

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2. Introduction to Data Science with R Workshop

Content will include:

  • Basic programming in R
  • Reading different file formats in R
  • Data Manipulation: Exploration and Cleaning dplyr and tidyr
  • Data Visualization with ggplot
  • Saving different file formats in R

Cost: $5 per student 
Date/Time: Saturday, January 20, 2024, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. eastern time

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3. Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL)

Content will include:

  • Basic SQL concepts
  • How to access and manipulate data with SQL

Cost: $5 per student 
Date/Time: Sunday, January 21, 2024, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. eastern time

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Strongly Recommended Assignments  

First semester courses will focus on analytical principles that can guide complex decision-making. A strong understanding of basic business math, basis statistics, and spreadsheet skills will be critical to successfully completing the semester. To prepare for coursework, it is strongly recommended that students complete all of the following before the start of class:

 

Optional Assignments and Reading