Capella University, SAS Launch MS in Analytics Program to Confront Persistent Skills Gap

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MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Facing a critical skills gap in data and analytics, the U.S. is hungry for graduate-level degree programs to meet snowballing demand. Capella University is stepping up, teaming with analytics leader SAS to launch a new Master of Science in Analytics degree program. Unlike traditional universities limited by classroom sizes, Capella's state-of-the-art, online program can accommodate more students and busy schedules.

National shortage of skilled data analysts by 2018
According to consulting firm McKinsey & Company, the supply of data is exploding, and demand for analytical talent could be 50 to 60 percent higher than the projected supply by 2018*. Data has swept into every industry and business function, yet without enough trained professionals, organizations are at risk of not realizing the enormous business advantages that data analytics can deliver.

"There are not enough high-quality graduate programs to meet the high demand for talent in the data and analytics space. Capella University is proud to be partnering with SAS to help solve the skills gap in data and analytics," Scott Kinney, Capella University president, said. "Capella's MS in Analytics program, designed specifically for busy, working professionals, will allow those looking to advance their career while still working full-time a chance to do so."

Capella's new online program prepares data analytics professionals to work with, understand and transform data. Graduates will be capable of developing solutions that resolve business problems, while effectively providing insights and communicating results to their organizations. Students develop skills in data sources, statistics, data mining, applied analytics and modeling, leadership, reporting, forecasting and visualization in order to solve problems within a variety of industries. Additionally, participants strengthen their collaboration, communication, presentation and negotiation skills. Upon successful completion of this degree program, students will be prepared to pursue careers in the diverse field of data analytics.

Virtual interactive learning experience
In conjunction with SAS, Capella has created a unique virtual internship, designed to develop both analytic and collaborative skills. Within the virtual internship environment, Capella students will work directly with healthcare provider Vila Health® to assist in analyzing its extensive, complex healthcare data. In each Vila Health® scenario, students apply theory to practice, learning to be a strategic partner, a knowledgeable data analyst and a dynamic leader. This internship allows students to address real-life business situations while building vital team skills sought after by employers.

The virtual internship component of Capella's MS in Analytics program allows for a more scalable and flexible learning experience and it is a critical component for skill development and career differentiation.

University collaborations a cornerstone of SAS Analytics U effort
SAS kicked off the SAS Analytics U global education initiative in 2014, offering free software, university partnerships and compelling user communities Since then, thousands of learners of all ages have seized the opportunity for free SAS® software and training. In addition, SAS has launched many degree and certificate programs at colleges and universities worldwide. The Capella program marks the company's first analytics degree offered entirely online. "Since the launch of SAS Analytics U last year, we have seen tremendous interest from professionals and independent learners who wish to jumpstart their careers with analytics education," said Emily Baranello, Director of the SAS Education Practice. "The Capella master's degree offers busy, independent learners a new way to gain valuable, high-level SAS analytics expertise, on their terms."

Enrollment now open
For more information, please call 1.888.CAPELLA (227.3552) or email info@capella.edu.

*Source: Big Data: The next frontier for innovation, competition, and productivity. McKinsey Global Institute report, Executive Summary page 11.

About Capella University
Capella University (www.capella.edu) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Founded in 1993, the university is dedicated to providing flexible, professionally aligned online degree programs designed to help working adults advance in their careers. As of July 30, 2015, more than 37,000 students were enrolled in Capella's bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and certificate programs, with over 70 percent in its graduate programs. Known for its commitment to learner success, academic quality and innovations in online education, Capella pioneered competency-based direct assessment programs allowing students to learn at their own pace. Capella University is a wholly owned subsidiary of Capella Education Company CPLA. For more information, call 1.888.CAPELLA (888.227.3552)

About SAS
SAS is a leader in business analytics software and services, and the largest independent vendor in the business intelligence market. Through innovative solutions, SAS helps customers at more than 75,000 sites improve performance and deliver value by making better decisions faster. Since 1976 SAS has been giving customers around the world The Power to Know®.

SAS and all other SAS Institute Inc. product or service names are registered trademarks or trademarks of SAS Institute Inc. in the USA and other countries. ® indicates USA registration. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective companies.

Capella University
Alicia Amling, 612-977-4836
alicia.amling@capella.edu

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