Bachelor of Science (Business Data Analytics) - BS (BDA)
Program Overview:
In today’s business landscape, data is often referred to as the 'new oil,' serving as the lifeblood of the digital economy. Businesses now recognize data as a critical asset, making the ability to identify opportunities within data an essential skill. How can vast amounts of information be harnessed to reveal key insights about business performance? How can trends be recognized, and opportunities interpreted using analytical tools? The Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics program at COMSATS University Islamabad, Attock Campus, offered by the Department of Management Sciences, prepares students to develop these high-demand skills crucial for success in the era of Industry 4.0.
The BS in Business Data Analytics is designed to equip students with the expertise to analyze and interpret data for informed business decision-making. The program emphasizes statistical techniques, data analysis, and data-driven strategies tailored to solve real-world business challenges. Students will gain the skills to collect, analyze, and interpret large datasets, providing valuable insights that support strategic decision-making.
Graduates of the Business Data Analytics program are well-prepared to operate at the intersection of data science and business strategy. Career paths include roles as business analysts, data analysts, market research analysts, and more. The four-year program features hands-on projects, internships, and research opportunities, ensuring graduates have practical experience in addition to theoretical knowledge.
Program Objectives
The BS Business Data Analytics program aims to:
- Build Analytical Proficiency: Develop students who can understand, apply, and effectively communicate the language, theories, and models of data science in a business context.
- Problem-Solving Expertise: Enable students to critically evaluate, synthesize, and solve complex structured and unstructured business problems using data-driven approaches.
- Foster Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Encourage an entrepreneurial mindset and a proactive approach toward business improvements and innovation.
- Promote Ethical Decision-Making: Instill a strong sense of ethics and social responsibility, ensuring that graduates contribute positively to their organizations and society.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Intermediate or equivalent (‘A’ Level) with a minimum of 50% marks from an accredited institution.
- Admission Test: NTS-NAT test score with a minimum of 50% marks, in accordance with CUI policy.
- Application Process: Prospective students can apply online through (link to portal) and must submit soft copies of all required documents.
Program Structure
The BS BDA program requires 135 credit hours, completed over a minimum of eight semesters (4 years) and a maximum of twelve semesters (6 years). The curriculum includes:
- Core Areas: Business Data Analytics, Machine Learning, Financial Technology, HR Analytics, and Marketing Analytics.
- Specializations: Students can choose electives in:
- Data Science and AI
- Financial Analytics
- HR and Talent Analytics
- Marketing Analytics
Internship Requirement: The program includes a mandatory three-credit hour internship, providing students with essential hands-on industry experience and the opportunity to apply their analytical skills in a real-world business environment.
Capstone Project: In the final year, students are required to complete a six-credit hour. This project involves addressing a complex, real-world business challenge using advanced data analytics techniques, showcasing the student’s ability to apply program knowledge to practical scenarios.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the BS Business Data Analytics program are well-prepared for a variety of roles, including:
- Entrepreneurship: Encouraged to start their own businesses or data-driven ventures.
- Employment Opportunities: Job roles in multinationals, telecom industry, real estate, e-commerce, financial services, and consultancy firms as:
- Data Analysts
- Business Analysts
- Market Research Analysts
- Business Intelligence Specialists
- Data Scientists
Admission and Eligibility Criteria
Program Intake
- Sessions Offered: The program is available in both Fall (September) and Spring (February) sessions.
Admission Requirements
- Educational Qualification: Applicants must have completed Intermediate or equivalent (‘A’ Level) with a minimum of 50% marks from an accredited institution.
- Admission Test: A valid NTS-NAT test score with a minimum of 50% marks is required as per CUI policy.
Program Duration
- Minimum Duration: 8 semesters (4 years)
- Maximum Duration: 12 semesters (6 years)
Required Documents for Admission
Applicants must submit the following documents along with the admission form:
- Demand Draft in favor of CUI Islamabad Campus from any bank.
- Matric/O-Level Mark Sheet & Equivalence Certificate (photocopy back to back).
- FA/FSc/A-Level Mark Sheet & Equivalence Certificate (photocopy back to back).
- BA/B.Sc/B.Com/BBA (2 years) Mark Sheet & Equivalence Certificate (for BBS applicants only).
- Copy of NIC/B-Form.
- Valid NTS Result (photocopy) if the test has already been taken.
- Paid NTS Challan Form (original copy) if the NTS test has not yet been taken.
- Hope Certificate/Affidavit (notarized on Rs. 20/- Stamp Paper) for result-awaiting applicants.
- Undertaking (notarized on Rs. 20/- Stamp Paper) for all applicants.
Academic Policies and Attendance
- Attendance Requirement: A minimum of 80% attendance is mandatory to be eligible for examinations.
- Examination Rules:
- Students must arrive on time for exams. Latecomers (beyond 30 minutes) will not be allowed to sit for the examination.
- A valid Student ID Card and Admit Card are mandatory for all exams.
- Prohibited Items: No written materials, scientific calculators, digital diaries, or mobile phones are allowed in the examination hall.
- Penalties for Unfair Practices:
- Fine up to Rs. 20,000/-
- Cancellation of the entire examination result
- Expulsion or rustication from the institute
Academic Structure and Regulations
- Semester Duration: Each semester consists of 15-18 weeks of teaching, excluding examinations. There are two regular semesters per academic year at CUI.
- Credit Hours:
- One credit hour corresponds to at least one hour of teaching per week throughout the semester.
- A full-time student is one who is registered for at least 12 credit hours in a semester.
- GPA and CGPA:
- GPA (Grade Point Average): The weighted average of grades earned in a semester.
- CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average): The weighted average of grades earned throughout the program.
Academic Standing and Course Management
- Probation and Dismissal:
- Students with a CGPA below 2.0 will be placed on academic probation.
- If a student receives two consecutive probations, they will be dismissed from the program.
- Course Drop and Withdrawal:
- Course Drop: A student may drop a course within the specified timeframe without incurring additional fees. The deadline for course drops is mentioned in the semester schedule.
- Course Withdrawal: A student may withdraw from a course before the second sessional exam but will be required to pay the course fee when retaken. The deadline for withdrawals is also listed in the semester schedule.
Code of Conduct and Campus Discipline
- Classroom Etiquette:
- Punctuality is expected, and students must focus during lectures.
- Mobile phones must be switched off; no SMS or messaging is allowed during class.
- Any form of misbehavior in class will not be tolerated.
- Examination Conduct:
- CUI has a strict policy against cheating or the use of unethical means during examinations. Any violation is subject to severe penalties.
- Written assignments may be subjected to plagiarism checks using anti-plagiarism software provided by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC).
- Campus Rules:
- CUI Attock is a NO SMOKING campus. Students must adhere to this rule at all times.
- Discipline must be maintained on campus, and any act of indiscipline may result in severe consequences based on the severity of the misconduct.