Big data is becoming an increasingly vital part of all industries and their operations.
Almost everything is made up of data and the skills of being able to interpret large sets of it has become increasingly key. Having the ability to identify patterns within these large sets of numbers and points can give you a huge upper hand on the competition. Companies are in need of people who can make sense of their data and use it to advise them for the future.
The study of big data is unique because students gain skills that are applicable in a wide range of fields from business analytics, to bioinformatics, to data science, to public health. You can use your data analysis skills to make an impact in any industry that interests you. But first, you need to gain the skills to make this impact possible.
One of the best ways to do this is to study big data analytics in a masters program, such as the one offered by SDSU online. Here’s everything you need to know about big data:
What is Big Data Analytics?
Big data analytics is the process of examining diverse data sets in order to uncover hidden patterns, correlation, and trends.
The field of study focuses on the five big Vs: volume, velocity, variety, veracity, and value. Volume refers to the amount of data, while velocity is the speed at which it’s being generated. Variety looks at the different types of data within the set, and veracity refers to its accuracy and reliability. Value then looks at the meaningful insights that can be pulled from the data.
There are also multiple analytic techniques that can be utilized; descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive. Each one looks at a unique aspect of how the data can be used. Descriptive shows what happened, diagnostic shows why it happened, predictive shows what is likely to happen, and prescriptive shows what action should be taken.
All of these variables and analytics techniques are key to being able to properly use these complex datasets for the future.
What Do You Learn in a Big Data Analytics Program?
Big data analytics programs improve your math skills, and give you knowledge of database theory, computational linguistics, machine learning, etc.
Some of the main objectives of big data programs include preparing you to manage big data applications, use the outcomes of analytics to formulate hypotheses, and lead organizations in the collection and modeling of data for various applications.
These skills are gained through a range of classes in topics such as python scripting, machine learning engineering, internet mapping, and of course, big data science. Additionally, most masters programs in big data will require you to complete a capstone experience to solidify everything you’ve learned.
How is the Future Becoming More Data-Driven?
It’s not an overstatement to say that data is everywhere, and continuously grows exponentially as time goes on.
Our smartphones, wearables, vehicles, and appliances are always generating data at all times. It really is true that every online click, search, or purchase creates new data points. This data is then put into dashboards, analytics, and predictive models that allow businesses to guide their marketing efforts, pricing strategies, etc.
Businesses aren’t the only ones that benefit from this though. Data is utilized to personalize experiences for consumers in entertainment, retail, finance, and more. Your digital footprint tailors everything to your individual needs.
Additionally, data is becoming increasingly vital for governance, healthcare, and infrastructure. Public policy is becoming more evidence-based, AI is being used to optimize outcomes for healthcare, and data is being implemented to create more responsive urban environments. Overall, data is working to make things more customized and efficient.
Does SDSU Offer An Online Big Data Degree?
SDSU Online has a Master of Science in Big Data Analytics program that is 100% online, offering unmatched flexibility.
Courses are taught by experts from SDSU’s Center for Human Dynamics in the Mobile Age (HDMA)–a research institute of SDSU’s College of Arts and Letters. These industry leaders will guide you as you work to earn the same degree as on-campus students: a Master of Science in Big Data Analytics from San Diego State.
The HDMA center additionally offers students research opportunities on projects that work within the convergence between mobile technology, big data, and social behavior research. Previous projects include a COVID-19 Research Hub and a Social Media Analytic and Research Testbed Dashboard.
Apply today to become a part of the data-driven future!
