2026-2027 Graduate Catalog

BUSAN 570. Data Science for Managers. 3 Credits.

The course helps students understand the fundamentals of using data to support their decision-making and to visually represent data. Students will develop visualization and decision models designed to effectively communicate the meaning of complex data sets in a business context. Students will also learn how Business Intelligence (BI) is used by organizations to make better business decisions, use fewer resources, and improve the bottom line. Students will learn numerous in-demand technical skills
P: graduate status
Fall and Spring.

BUSAN 635. Foundations of Strategic Information Management. 3 Credits.

Information Technology (IT) is an integral part of all organizations and plays a vital role in all functional areas such as marketing, accounting, finance, human resources, operations, and supply chain. It also serves in enabling key applications such as business intelligence, data analytics, security, internal controls, and new-product planning among others. Owing to the dynamic nature of IT, it is imperative that organizations continuously reevaluate their strategic alliance with IT. Thus a well-designed, and strategically managed IT has the potential to dramatically improve a business's competitive advantage. The course discusses the significant managerial aspects of IT's increasing impact on today's organizations, along with IT trends and their business implications, security, privacy and ethical issues.
P: graduate status
Fall and Spring.

BUSAN 636. Analysis & Design of Business Information Systems. 3 Credits.

The competence in business information systems analysis and design (SA&D) is critical to not only information technology professionals but also to business managers since the fit between information technology and organizational business needs is argued to be a key determinant of firm performance. Students will learn system analysis and design concepts and technologies required to develop business information systems. The emphasis is on system life cycle concepts ranging from a system's planning to its discontinuance. The course will also attempt to evaluate the ethical issues involved as well as the business reasons why some IT projects succeed while others fail.
P: Graduate standing
Fall Only.

BUSAN 638. Information Security and Cybersecurity Management. 3 Credits.

As digital applications continue to grow, so do the associated risks of cyber threats and data breaches. This course, offered from a business management perspective, provides students with the expertise needed to understand, design, and implement comprehensive information security and cybersecurity management systems for preventing breaches and attacks while safeguarding privacy and confidentiality. Students will develop the skills to identify, prioritize, and mitigate security risks, employing strategies that balance operational, technical, and financial factors. The course emphasizes the critical role of the human element in preventing security breaches, acknowledging that cybersecurity is not solely a technological issue. Through case studies, students will explore strategies that address both technical vulnerabilities and human behavior, preparing them to effectively navigate the complex information security landscape in modern organizations. The course also covers disaster recovery planning to ensure business continuity in the face of natural disasters or large-scale disruptions, as well as the evolving challenges of cybersecurity in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
P: Graduate Student Standing
Spring.

BUSAN 650. Database for Business Analytics. 3 Credits.

Data is the new oil and is a key component of powering the AI and analytics revolution. Any analytical solution and decision model system is only as good as the data it is built upon. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to managing data using database management systems (DBMS). It consists of four main parts - database design, implementation, and use - focusing on the relational database model and introducing big data technologies such as NoSQL databases, data warehousing, and data lakes. The course will also discuss how better data integration using data lakes and other big data technologies can help break data silos and create a vibrant learning organization. Course is repeatable for credit; may be taken 2 times to earn a total of 6 credits. This course has been identified as a Cofrin School of Business High Impact Practice (HIP) course. HIPs are rigorous courses that include engaging teaching methods such as regular feedback, peer and faculty interaction, structured reflection, and application of knowledge.
P: graduate standing
Fall Only.