AIM launches master in data analytics program

The Asian Institute of Management (AIM) has launched its Master in Data Analytics (MDA) program, the first in the country, to address the increasing demand for skilled data analysts globally.

The 18-month, part-time, and hybrid program will equip professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to take advantage of the power of data, AIM said in a statement.

In its launch last August 30, AIM president and dean Jikyeong Kang, PhD, said there was an emerging, urgent need of companies and organizations for employees or personnel with insights that could be gained with data.

"This new program, Master in Data Analytics, is really answering that particular need," Kang said.

Meanwhile, Corinne Burgos, PhD, the academic program director of the Master in Data Analytics, cited a World Economic Forum Future of Jobs report that said more than half of employees will need significant reskilling by 2025.

"It does not mean that people who work on data, work on reports, data visualization, all of that, need upskilling. I don't think so. It is everyone. [Everyone] would need data analytics skills," Burgos.

Burgos added that more human resource departments are hiring analysts and data scientists. Following its Master of Science in Data Science Program, she said the MDA is now the institution's "next step."

The new curriculum will provide flexibility for working professionals to integrate their graduate studies with their careers easily.

AIM cited data from the Analytics Association of the Philippines (AAP) that the country will need 500,000 analytics professionals by 2028, according to estimates.

However, the figure only considers the IT industry, implying that actual demand could be higher in other industries including marketing, sales, media, public relations, human resources, and government.

"The business landscape is rapidly evolving. Leaders who can harness the power of data and AI will undoubtedly shape the future," Burgos said in a separate statement.

The MDA program will provide students with an in-depth understanding of data collection, analysis, interpretation, and visualization.

Further, graduates of the program will be equipped to extract actionable insights, provide data-driven decisions, and make an impact with their organizations' growth and competitiveness.

The curriculum focuses on practical application that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Students will be allowed to work on real-world projects and gain exposure to best practices in various industries.

“This is not merely obtaining a degree but a strategic investment,” said Burgos.

AIM Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship head Christopher Monterola meanwhile pointed out the difference between Data Science and Data Analytics.

"If you go to data science, we go deep down into the algorithms, among others. But here, the highlight will be bringing up the values of the data analytics that you are doing," he said.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) said last year they will offer free online training courses for data analysts amid the increase in demand for such professionals.

Data analysts are not only needed in call center companies but are also in demand in various business sectors. Entry-level salary can go as high as P25,000 per month.

AIM said applications for the March 2025 intake will open soon.

For more information about the MDA program, visit aim.edu. —NB/KG, GMA Integrated News