Launching in Spring 2026, USC Bovard College’s new MS in Applied Analytics (MSAA) is built entirely with AI at its core.
As artificial intelligence reshapes nearly every industry, USC Bovard College is ensuring professionals are ready to lead — not just adapt — in this new era.
Launching in Spring 2026, the Online Master of Science in Applied Analytics (MSAA) program is one of the first of its kind — built entirely with AI at its core, says Anne Robinson, a professor with USC Bovard College and a leading expert in analytics, technology and process innovation.
“You can’t talk about analytics without including AI. The reality is that AI algorithms are large, predictive analytical systems, so it’s part of the conversation,” Robinson explained. “Every course puts AI first — whether it’s understanding the bigger picture around AI and analytics, looking at applications and the value they can derive, or learning how to create those applications.”
From day one, students will apply what they learn to real-world data and scenarios. Coursework emphasizes experiential learning, such as analyzing data sets with AI tools, developing mock consulting engagements and designing AI-driven applications. Offered on a one- or two-year track, the MSAA provides flexibility for working professionals.
“This program establishes the necessary skills in leadership, management and development to leverage AI in the best way possible,” Robinson said. “It’s hands-on all the way through. That’s the expectation.”
Joyce Shen, a fellow MSAA professor and experienced technology investor, expanded on what that looks like in practice.
“In the technical courses, students explore AI concepts ranging from data analysis and visualization to machine learning, deep learning and generative AI,” she explained. “In the more business-oriented courses, these technologies are examined through the lens of strategy and innovation. The program also prepares students to rigorously manage AI projects and bridge the gap between technical teams and business leaders with long-term objectives in mind.”
The program’s strength lies in its team of cutting-edge faculty, whose expertise spans data and decision science, emerging technologies, finance and more, said professor and advanced analytics professional Chris Kuo.
“Our faculty come from diverse industry and academic backgrounds, and what truly sets them apart is their passion for learning,” he said. “They’re lifelong learners who stay at the frontier of knowledge, which makes them the perfect guides for our students as AI continues to evolve.”
Preparing for a New Job Market
Graduates of the MSAA program gain a comprehensive skill set — from identifying business issues and managing data to building analytic models and evaluating performance — all through an AI-focused lens. But the program also places a strong emphasis on leadership, ethics and communication, preparing students to navigate an evolving job market with confidence.
“It’s an interesting time we’re living in,” Robinson noted. “A decade ago, we couldn’t have imagined many of the roles that exist today. Now we’re seeing positions like prompt engineers or AI specialists in industries such as insurance and law. There’s not a domain where AI won’t be relevant, and that’s what makes it so exciting.”
The graduates best positioned for long-term success, she said, are those who understand how to learn and apply AI across contexts, not just those who can code or interpret data. That’s precisely the goal of the MSAA program.
Robinson also emphasized that AI’s rapid evolution is creating new opportunities for professionals in nearly every industry.
“Whether your passion is music, health care or technology, you can combine it with AI,” she said. “We don’t know how the jobs are going to change, but this skill set will be highly needed and valued.”
“Everyone needs to learn AI now. It is one of the biggest innovations of our time,” added Shen.
Keeping Pace With an Evolving Field
Given how quickly the field of AI changes, the faculty behind the MSAA are focused on keeping the curriculum current.
“This program needs to be evergreen and adaptable to the moment,” Robinson said. “Yesterday we were talking about generative AI; today it’s agentic AI. Our goal is to make sure the materials and discussions presented to students are centered around what’s relevant today — not what was relevant six months ago.”
Robinson noted that faculty continuously update coursework to reflect the latest developments in AI and analytics, aligning the program with rapid technological change.
“Our goal is to ensure that this program remains at the forefront as technology continues to evolve,” said Anthony Bailey, dean of USC Bovard College. “AI is changing every aspect of the workplace, and our faculty are committed to maintaining a curriculum that is hands-on and immediately applicable.”
That dedication to adaptability is echoed by faculty members like Kuo.
“We designed the MSAA with evolution in mind,” he said. “AI moves fast, so our program is built to move with it — expanding into areas like generative and agentic AI, and emphasizing responsible, trustworthy applications that prepare students to lead future innovations.”
AI presents a significant opportunity — and an unavoidable reality. With its flexible structure, forward-looking faculty and emphasis on real-world application, the MSAA program prepares students to harness that change and shape the future of their industries.