Business Analytics is all about turning big data, data science and machine learning into smart decisions. Students will learn:
how to collate, clean and manipulate large data sets
how to analyse these data using statistics and data mining techniques
how to use your findings to predict the future and make optimal decisions
The programme offers a unique combination of mathematics, computer science and business administration. In addition to challenging students academically and giving them a firm theoretical foundation, there is a strong emphasis on developing their practical, collaborative and communication skills.
Throughout the programme students will come to grips with the main methodical and theoretical issues, as well as with the difficulties of interpreting different types of source material.
Students will be thoroughly trained in analysing complicated historical issues using divergent source material, as well as developing reporting skills (both orally and in writing) on historical debates in Greek and Roman history.
This programme is taught by a dynamic staff who teach courses on communication science, applied linguistics, media analysis, interaction and intercultural communication. Students will work in relatively small seminar groups, where they will be motivated to engage in critical discussions, and where they have the opportunity to follow their individual interests.
At VU Amsterdam, stdents will conduct a lot of research independently. Students will examine the real problems faced by real organisations and look for feasible solutions. As a result, they will not only gain knowledge of communications, but they will also learn important skills like how to set up an experiment and analyse data.
Computer Science is a full-time program with an intensive pace. On average you will spend 14 hours a week at the university. This time will be devoted to 3-4 lectures, practical classes and group assignments. Students will also spend a significant amount of time working on projects at home. They also will take two courses simultaneously in any given two-month teaching period.
In this specialization this course covers statistical theory of high-dimensional spaces, the computer science skills of handling big data, the econometric methodology of identifying causal economic relations in a data-rich environment. Students further learn the practical skills of analyzing, modelling and forecasting key financial and economic variables, for the purpose of improving policy and decision-making.
During the Bachelor’s programme Econometrics and Operations Research at VU Amsterdam students learn to investigate and solve problems in economics, business and finance, using quantitative techniques.
After the Bachelor’s programme, students will be able to choose from a number of Master’s programmes. As an econometrics graduate, students will be highly desired on the job market.
During the bachelor’s programme Economics and Business Economics, students will study the behaviour of consumers, companies and governments. Students will seek and find solutions for social issues at both macro and micro levels. And they will do this from different perspectives, such as financial economics, spatial economics, development economics and business economics. The programme has strong ties with professional practice and is offered in English.
The Master's in Economics is a high-quality one-year programme. The first part of the programme consists of three compulsory core courses focusing on the foundations of the discipline at an advanced level. Students also take three elective courses that can be combined into a specialization. Two pieces of independent academic work, a research project and a final thesis, complete the programme requirements. Thanks to the compact, personal nature of the programme there is plenty of interaction with the teaching staff.