MScBusiness Analytics & Management @ Erasmus University

Why did you choose this study?

During the Aviation Operations program, I enjoyed the courses Statistics and Modeling & Simulation (warning: if you didn't like these courses, don't even think about this MSc program 😊). I realized that I wanted to deepen my knowledge in applying statistical methods to solve business problems. I also wanted to expand my knowledge in data analytics and translating information from data into actionable insights.

The Business Analytics & Management program combines theoretical foundations (mainly in the core courses) with practical applications (mainly in the electives), which gives you real insight into how to use your “toolbox” to solve business problems in a data-driven way. The program offers several electives you can choose from, for example focusing on operations management and supply chain analytics. But you can also use these electives to further specialize in quantitative marketing or finance.

The combination of my passion for data analytics and the program offering theoretical knowledge and practical applications is why I chose this study.

Could you progress directly from the Aviation Academy or did you need a premaster, for example

To qualify for the MSc program, students with a degree in Aviation Operations must first complete a pre-master's program of 29 EC. RSM offers an English-language pre-master's program in International Business Administration, which can be taken entirely online. There is also a Dutch-language version of the program, but it is only available on the Rotterdam campus.

I chose the online option, which allowed me to work part-time at KLM while studying - a great opportunity to combine both education and working experience!

To qualify for the pre-master's program, you need a minimum GPA of 7.3, calculated over the last three years of the bachelor's degree. In addition, you must be able to demonstrate proficiency in English at a minimum C1 level.

After you have successfully completed all courses in the pre-master's program, you can enroll in one of the MSc programs offered by RSM.

Looking back on my experience, I am happy I took the pre-master's program. The pre-master improved my skills in doing research, statistics, mathematics and programming, which is essential for succeeding in the MSc program I am currently following.

Are there any points you can focus on during your studies at the Aviation Academy that would be in favour of further study?

I believe that strong skills in programming, statistics and mathematics are essential for any MSc program, including the Business Analytics & Management program.

During your bachelor’s degree, you can focus on courses in statistics, mathematics, modeling & simulation, and programming (both R and Python). In addition, I recommend taking a quantitative minor in your third year.

I did a Data Science minor in my third year, which resulted in good preparation for the course Machine Learning and Learning Algorithms, which I am currently taking.

Why would you recommend this study?

If you’re looking to enhance your data analytics and statistical skills and apply them to solving real-world business challenges after completing your bachelor’s degree, this MSc program might be a good choice!

The program offers a wide range of core courses and electives that will give you theoretical knowledge that you can apply in many business settings.

What would you possibly do differently?

To be honest, I wouldn’t change anything. I’m very happy that I started my journey towards the MSc program in Business Analytics & Management with a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Operations. This allowed me to gain experience with practical problem solving, complete some great internships and network within companies I would like to work for.

Are there any critical points on your further study?

Some courses may feel quite overwhelming in the beginning due to the theoretical formulas, especially since WO is more theory-focused compared to HBO. There have been moments in lectures where the formulas on the slides felt like I was reading Chinese. However, taking the time to engage with the material and asking questions helped me. In the end you'll find that with some effort, everything starts to make sense!

More info: MSc Business Analytics & Management at Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University