In an era defined by data, the demand for actionable insights and data-driven solutions has never been greater.
That’s why Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) offers a diverse range of specialized master’s programs specifically designed to equip students with the advanced analytics skills and experience to succeed.
Pairing cutting-edge curriculum and access to Columbia’s world-class faculty and resources, the master of science programs in Actuarial Science, Applied Analytics, Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), Information & Knowledge Strategy (IKNS), and Political Analytics empower students to gain the analytical knowledge and expertise essential to excel in today’s increasingly data-reliant business and academic landscapes.
A Pathway to Industry Leadership
Columbia’s analytics-driven SPS programs provide transformative trajectories for career-changers and ambitious professionals, unlocking opportunities in high-demand fields like computer technology, finance, risk management, and consulting.
“Lifelong learning and upskilling in analytics are no longer just advantages—they are necessities for thriving in the competitive landscape of today’s ever-evolving digital economy,” says Kitty Kay Chan, director of the Master of Science in Applied Analytics program.
These programs are driven by a faculty of scholar-practitioners—senior-level professionals actively shaping their fields. Faculty members bring relevant industry insights and challenges directly into the classroom, providing students with unparalleled opportunities to solve real-world problems and build invaluable connections with seasoned experts.
Real-World Data, Real-World Impact
Columbia SPS analytics programs bridge the gap between cutting-edge analysis and practical industry application. This focused approach enables professionals to become data-driven leaders capable of translating complex data into strategic, actionable solutions.
Practical case studies and applied learning builds robust domain expertise, enabling graduates to seamlessly transition into impactful roles at elite global organizations. Graduates are highly sought-after by industry leaders in top firms, including Goldman Sachs, EY, Deloitte, Citi, and PwC, among many others, and have achieved positions that include head of global key accounts at Alibaba Group, vice president of digital learning solutions at JPMorgan Chase & Co., crew strategy and intelligence analyst at American Airlines, and senior institutional affairs analyst at the International Monetary Fund.
Columbia SPS Analytics Programs
Five specialized master of science programs at Columbia SPS are designed to deliver immediate career impact through analytical training:
- The Master of Science in Actuarial Science provides a rigorous foundation in predictive modeling, machine learning, and risk management, specifically tailored to the actuarial field. The program goes beyond theoretical knowledge by emphasizing practical application through mentorship from industry leaders, access to a vast network of employers, and preparation for professional certifications like SOA and CAS exams. Students gain hands-on experience and build crucial industry connections, solidifying their analytical expertise.
- The Master of Science in Applied Analytics offers a broad and versatile scope of analytical training, focusing on the practical application of data to drive informed decision-making across industries and organizational functions. This program emphasizes the ability to translate data into actionable insights, coupling technical proficiency with essential leadership and communication skills. Graduates are empowered not only with computational methods and algorithmic approaches to analyze data but also with the skills to effectively convey their findings and influence strategic decision-making.
- The Master of Science in Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) equips students with the ability to inform better risk-reward decisions, at the highest levels, by providing a complete, robust, and integrated picture of both upside and downside volatility across an entire enterprise.
- The Master of Science in Information & Knowledge Strategy (IKNS) focuses on the strategic management of information and knowledge, addressing the challenge of extracting valuable insights from vast data streams. This interdisciplinary program combines information science, organizational psychology, and change management, empowering students to leverage data and human talent for innovation and strategic advantage. Graduates learn to translate insights into lasting organizational change, making them vital assets in any industry.
- The Master of Science in Political Analytics addresses the growing demand for data-driven strategies in politics and advocacy. This program uniquely blends quantitative methods with a deep understanding of political contexts, enabling students to analyze political data, predict outcomes, and shape effective campaigns. Graduates develop the ability to communicate complex data insights to diverse audiences, becoming influential decision-makers in the political arena.
A commitment to quantitative competency is also evident across several additional SPS programs. The Master of Science in Sustainability Management program, for instance, integrates data analysis into its core curriculum and offers a unique Sustainability Analytics CPA. Similarly, the Master of Science in Sports Management emphasizes data-driven decision-making with specialized courses like Baseball Analytics and Basketball Analytics.
Meeting the Demand for Data Expertise
Today’s world increasingly demands data-driven insights and solutions. By bridging the gap between data and strategic action, Columbia SPS’s analytics-centric programs are fostering a new generation of leaders who are ready to transform complex information into tangible results across a diverse range of industries.
“Whether predicting market trends, optimizing supply chains, or informing public policy, Columbia SPS prepares students to translate data into real-world impact,” says Dr. Erik Nelson, senior associate dean of academic affairs at Columbia SPS. “Our programs don't just teach analytics; they cultivate versatile problem-solvers who can apply their expertise to the nuanced challenges to a diverse array of professional fields.”
Learn more about these SPS programs and register for an upcoming info session:
