Business Analytics and Consultancy with Advanced Practice

Overview Gain the expertise to make data-driven, evidence-based decisions for transformation growth in business with our two-year MSc Business Analytics and Consultancy with Advanced Practice programme.

In an evolving digital world, the significance of data technology in business is as important as ever. Employers worldwide are actively seeking graduates equipped with a unique blend of business acumen, data analytics skills, and the ability to effectively communicate insights.

During this degree, you’ll learn about the theory and practice behind analytics, so you'll be positioned to make informed strategic, evidence-based business decisions that drive success in the complex landscape of the business world.

You’ll learn about key concepts of Big Data and analytics and their use in management decision-making. You’ll also learn about management consultancy and financial reporting.

You’ll explore the theory and methods of social network analysis as they relate to organisational behaviour, leadership and entrepreneurship.

This programme is centred on employability and professional career readiness. If the first year is completed at an appropriate level, you'll progress to year two. The second year allows you to embark on a year-long company placement which will help you to develop and reflect on your learning in a workplace setting.

We work closely with our industry advisory board of business leaders to identify current skill gaps faced by organisations and ensure that our course content and teaching are aligned with industry needs. As a result, you’ll develop key skills in highly employable areas of management including business strategy, leadership, project management, change management, quality management and inventory planning.

There are several core elements of this MSc programme that will set you apart in the corporate world, these include the core skills you will gain in our Business Analytics course followed by our research-led Big Data Analytics course, the Network Analysis course and a new course in Management Consultancy.

Our expertise Your learning will be informed by the expertise of our research-active academics whose work covers four key areas:

Employment, Work and the Professions

Logistics and Sustainability

Networks and Enterprise Excellence

Social and Economic Data Analysis

Your learning environment This degree is taught through a combination of traditional lectures, case studies and computer lab-based sessions where students will learn how to apply a range of analytical tools and techniques using real company data.

During your studies, you’ll benefit from and have access to our state-of-the-art facilities including our Global Incubator which offers new-start firms support to take their business ideas to the next stage. Here you’ll find all types of industries from a wide range of backgrounds and knowledge working with professional and investor networks to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Outside of the classroom, you can join Heriot-Watt’s Business Society which holds regular social events and provides networking opportunities and insights into career prospects in business and other relevant industries.

Customise your learning You’ll have the opportunity to focus on the areas of analytics and consultancy that interest you the most. You can customise your degree to match your specific interests or career pathway by selecting four specialist course options.

Near the end of our study, you’ll ‘deep dive’ into your chosen area of business analytics in your dissertation. You will be required to demonstrate your mastery of the subject area by developing new insight from the analysis of valuable primary research.