Business Analytics Minor

Business analytics is a technical approach to analyzing problems and making business-related decisions. It uses statistical methods, management science techniques and mathematical modeling to forecast the implications of various choices and identify the best alternatives. Business analytics focuses on the effective use of data and information to provide fact-based insights and drive positive business actions. The minor in business analytics prepares students to solve complex decision problems in a business environment with a combination of quantitative skills and hands-on expertise using current software applications. Students enrolled in the business analytics minor are not permitted to pursue the business analytics concentration of the computer information systems major .

Special Admission Requirements

Admission to the BSAN program is limited and competitive.

To be eligible to apply for admission, students must have completed the following:

• One introductory calculus course (MATH 205 , MATH 231 , MATH 235 , ISAT 151  or equivalent)
• One statistics course (COB 191 , MATH 220 , MATH 285 , MATH 318 , ISAT 251  or equivalent)
• One economics course (ECON 200  or ECON 201 )
• One business analytics course (COB 291 ) with a minimum grade of “B-“

In addition, a student must have a minimum of 2 full semesters remaining when starting the minor to complete the course requirements.

A complete application to the minor includes the following:

• A completed BSAN minor application form
• A letter of recommendation from COB 291  instructor

Students may use transfer and/or college credits that have been accepted by JMU to meet competency requirements. Admission is based on an average of a student’s highest grades in one course from each competency area and the letter of recommendation. Only grades earned at JMU and verified by the registrar will be used; transfer transcripts will also be reviewed. More emphasis will be placed on grades than on the recommendation letter.

Students seeking to add the BSAN minor must submit an application to the Department of Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics . Applications are accepted every semester. See the website for the BSAN minor for the application link and current deadlines.

The Business Analytics minor is a competitive program with limited available seats. Admission is not guaranteed.