How the “Fast Track” from a Data Analytics Certificate Can Lead to a Master’s in Information Systems Degree

Are you a data and information systems enthusiast, ready to take your skills to the next level? The University of Cincinnati’s (UC) Carl H. Lindner College of Business has three compelling online options for you:

• Data Analytics Graduate Certificate
• Data Science Graduate Certificate
• Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

Here, we explore UC’s “data analytics certificate to MSIS degree” pathway and how this education pairing supercharges your career in the world of data, technology, and business.

Why Take the Graduate Data Analytics Certificate and then Complete the MSIS Degree?

Starting your studies at UC with the online Data Analytics Certificate serves as an excellent entry point into the academic excellence offered by the Lindner College of Business for graduate-level students. Successfully finishing the graduate-level Data Analytics certificate program equips you with fresh skills and a more profound comprehension of data analytics, while enhancing your resume.

Another benefit: If you enter the Master of Science in Information Systems after earning your Data Analytics Certificate, you’ll not only earn a master’s, but a certificate. The courses from the certificate transfer to select MSIS core courses and cover a significant portion of MSIS electives, which may lead to a reduction of 12 required credit hours for the MSIS degree. This streamlined approach significantly trims the total credit hours needed for your master’s, streamlining your academic path.

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The Lindner Advantage

Both the Data Analytics Certificate and the Master of Sciences in Information systems programs are within the Carl H. Lindner College of Business, and offered by UC Online. The Lindner College of Business is accredited by the AACSB and has been recognized as one of the best business schools in the country by The Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report. Founded in 1906, the nationally acclaimed Lindner College of Business academic programs empower business problem-solvers to tackle the world’s challenges. Lindner faculty and subject matter experts have sparked innovation and insights through cutting-edge research.

More than 100 years ago, Lindner College of Business pioneered cooperative education, refining it ever since. It’s not just about internships; it’s a whole spectrum of real-world experiences, like working with big companies, volunteering in the community, collaborating on projects, and forming industry partnerships. Lindner students get to roll up their sleeves and gain practical experience all around the world, with a real-world immersion that supercharges careers and builds skills, knowledge, and confidence that last a lifetime.

Highlights of Online Data Analytics Certificate Program

The Lindner School of Business Data Analytics Graduate Certificate program is a convenient gateway to mastering the art of data analytics, a vital skill in today’s data-driven world. Designed for working professionals who need to study part-time, the 12-credit-hour certificate program provides the flexibility to learn at your own pace with asynchronous classes that fit your schedule.

Once you complete the certificate program, you’ll have the skills to organize and analyze data effectively, construct data warehouses, create impactful data displays, and communicate meaningful business insights. Whether starting a new career or enhancing your existing one, UC’s certificate program equips you with the knowledge you need to excel in data analytics.

Highlights of Online MSIS Program

Some students who have the data analytics certificate under their belt may move right on to the online MSIS program, finishing it in about one year instead of two years.

Earning the MSIS degree from Lindner College of Business affords you numerous benefits and personalized support along the way.

• An online bootcamp that prepares you for success before the first day of online class. This virtual orientation provides valuable tech and non-tech skills that will benefit you throughout your time in UC’s MSIS program.
• Designed for working professionals, the fully online, asynchronous courses allow you to build a study schedule that fits around your personal and professional commitments.
• Curriculum that equips you with broad technical skills to pursue a variety of roles after graduation, whether that means going on to work as a Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Consultant, Information Technology Consultant, IT Risk and Compliance Consultant, Product Intelligence Manager, Technical Program Manager, or in another in-demand role.
• Experience-based learning is where you work on a meaningful and in-depth information systems project, conduct information systems research, and engage in a 6–8-month co-op/internship.
• Start-to-graduation support is when you’re introduced to your Enrollment Services Advisor and Student Success Coordinator on day one. These student-centered professionals understand the demands of a busy life and are here to support your success in the program. They guide you through the admissions process, assist with course selection, answer questions, and keep you on your path toward degree completion.
• Assurance the MSIS program is grounded in excellence, ranking as a top-15 MSIS program in North America (EdUniversal) and accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, with a 100% employment rate (i.e., placement within three months of graduation).

Take the Next Step Toward Your MSIS Degree or Data Analytics Certificate

If you plan on starting your data and information systems journey by earning a Data Analytics Graduate Certificate before enrolling in the MSIS program, read the certificate program overview and prerequisites. Due to class offerings, if you’re interested in this data analytics certificate as a standalone program, you should apply to the spring or fall semesters. (You can find the MSIS program overview here.)

If you’d like more information about either program or want to know which program is right for you, connect with an Enrollment Services Advisor. The UC representative can explain how earning the data analytics certificate may streamline your application for the MSIS program. They can answer your questions, cover tuition and financial aid, and more. And if you’re an active-duty military, a veteran, or a military family member, let the advisor know so they can tell you about UC’s commitment as a Yellow Ribbon partner school.

To speak directly with an advisor about either program, call (833) 556-7877 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern, Monday through Friday.