Undergraduate Catalog 2023-2024

Department of Analytics and Information Systems

Dr. Ray Blankenship, Chair
Email: Ray.Blankenship@wku.edu

Grise Hall, Office 200
Phone: (270) 745-3509
Department Website: www.wku.edu/ais

The field of business data analytics explores the interplays between technology, business, and society. Business data analytics utilizes information management tools for the processing, management, and analysis of data that relates to business. Graduates in Business Data Analytics serve as a bridge between the builders and users of technology and global innovations. Occupations in this field include Business Analyst, Customer Intelligence Analyst, Database Administrator, and Healthcare Analyst.
The AIS Department at WKU offers several professionally-focused programs that prepare students for these, and many other, dynamic opportunities:

  • Business Data Analytics (BDAN)
  • Applied Data Analytics Certificate
  • Minor in Computer Information Systems
  • MBA Concentrations
  • Data Analytics
  • Cybersecurity Data Analytics

Overview of Computing Facilities

Western Kentucky University maintains a number of general-purpose computing labs across campus with a computer-to-student ratio that is among the highest of all state universities. In addition, the Department of Analytics and Information Systems offers extensive hands-on learning opportunities through its own computer-enhanced instructional classrooms, computer labs, and many web-enabled courses. These resources are available at WKU’s main and regional campuses. These resources allow BDAN students to make use of the latest hardware and software technologies in their major courses. This unique blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience helps to prepare our graduates for professional success.

Faculty

Professor

John K. Atkinson EdD (Adult, Higher, and Community Education, Information & Communication Sciences), Ball State University, 2007

Ray Blankenship PhD (Business Administration- Management Information Systems), University of Mississippi, 1994

Mark D. Ciampa PhD (Tech Mgt (Digital Comm Systems)), Indiana State University, 2008

Sean R. Marston PhD (Business Administration, Information Systems and Operation), University of Florida, 2010

Evelyn H. Thrasher PhD (Management), Auburn University, 2006

Associate Professor

Thaddeus R. Crews PhD (Computer Science), Vanderbilt University, 1995

Lily P. Zhuhadar PhD (Computer Science and Engineering), University of Louisville, 2009

Assistant Professor

John A. Erickson PhD (Data Science), Worcester Polytech Institute, 2021

Tong Wu PhD (Information Systems), Baylor University, 2022

Instructor I

Adam P. Brownlee MBA (Business Administration), Western Kentucky University, 2014

Instructor II

James H. Lindsey MS (Information Sciences and Systems), Bowie State University, 2000

Business Data Analytics (BDAN)

BDAN 250    Introduction to Analytics    3 Hours

An introduction to data analytics techniques and their application in business. Students will learn how data analytics can improve decision making. Real-world cases and examples are explored to place analytical methods in context.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 305    Principles of MIS with Spreadsheets    3 Hours

The basis of information systems and how data is used in a decision making environment. An introduction to data analysis in relation to managing information systems.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 310    Business Data Analytics    3 Hours

An introduction to the application of data analytics methods to business issues. Topics include business case studies, data analytic, model building techniques, and communication of results.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 250

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 320    Web Analytics    3 Hours

An introduction to measuring, collecting, analyzing and reporting on online digital Web data using digital analytics and business intelligence.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 250

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022

BDAN 330    Structured Data Analysis    3 Hours

An introduction to the practical analysis and interpretation of different forms of data, emphasizing how and when to use particular tools, techniques, and metrics to maximize decision-making.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 250

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 350    Data Management    3 Hours

An introduction to managing the data used in business data analytics. Topics include data sources, acquisition, conditioning, storage, and security.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 250

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 399    Career Readiness in Business Data Analytics    1 Hour

Introduction to preparation for a career in Business Data Analytics, including exposure to careers in data analytics; certifications in the profession; development of professional writing skills, professional resumes and cover letters; oral communications; interviewing skills; goalsetting; ethical standards; and professional networking. This course is limited to juniors and seniors in the Business Data Analytics program.

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students in Business Data Analytics (504)

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 410    DSS Analysis and Design    3 Hours

An exploration of the analysis and design processes used to develop and deploy decision support systems (DSS) in businesses, which are technology based tools that support decision-making activities.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 250

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 420    Predictive Modeling    3 Hours

An introduction to predictive modeling and the demonstration of extraction principles from data stored in large heterogeneous volumes and how organizations can analyze data from multiple perspectives.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 310

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior or Freshman may not enroll.

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 430    Data Visualization    3 Hours

An introduction to the accumulation, analysis, and visualization of complex data sets for businesses, including the analysis of complex data sets and developing digital dashboards and score cards.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 310

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 440    Special Topics - Analytics & Information Systems    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Study of an advanced topic not normally covered in other Business Data Analytics courses. (Some topics may require additional prerequisites).

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

BDAN 490    Practicum in Analytics and Information Systems    1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

Internships, independent studies, and special projects of interest to students and faculty in Analytics, Cybersecurity, and Information Sytems. These may include individual research projects, meaningful internships in profit or not-for-profit organizations with duties relating to Analytics, Cybersecurity, Information Sytems, or other special projects approved by the Information Systems Chair and the Information Systems faculty. Note: A 2.5 cumulative GPA and 6 additional hours of Business Data Analytics courses are required; in addition, permission of the Information Systems Chair and the instructor is required.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 250 with a minimum grade of C

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Junior or Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students in Business Data Analytics (504)

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

BDAN 499    Senior Assessment in Business Data Analytics    1 Hour

Preparation for and administration of the senior assessment exam. Discussion of educational and career opportunities beyond the baccalaureate degree. Discussion of the transition from college to workplace, including final preparation of career-related materials. Note: Required of all Business Data Analytics majors in the last semester.

Prerequisite(s): (MGT 498 (may be taken concurrently) or ENT 496 (may be taken concurrently))

Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a semester level of Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students in Business Data Analytics (504)

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

Computer Information Sys (CIS)

CIS 141    Analytics and Technology    3 Hours

An introduction to the breadth of information technology and the role of computer based devices for everyday problem solving in life, work and research. Practical experience with current as well as emerging technologies is provided. Students who have earned credit in CSCI 145C may not enroll in CIS 141. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SB | SB

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

CIS 205    Technology in Society and Business    3 Hours

Examination of the impact of digital information technology on domestic and international businesses and societies, along with ethical and social impacts on professional and personal decision-making. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

CIS 226    Introduction to Visual Programming    3 Hours

A study in the algorithmic approach of the analysis of problems and their solutions. A visual programming language will be introduced and used in solving assigned problems. Laboratory work will be required outside of class meetings.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

CIS 248    Systems Integration    3 Hours

Continuing coverage of programming with emphasis on integrating and designing useful graphical user interfaces to enter, edit and retrieve information from existing databases. Secondary emphasis will be on generating complicated detailed reports.

Prerequisite(s): CIS 246 with a minimum grade of C or CS 226 with a minimum grade of C or CIS 226 with a minimum grade of C

Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Computer Information Systems (706)

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

CIS 320    Personal Information Technologies    3 Hours

The management and deployment of personal productivity technologies, including management of facilities, workstations and support services. Particular emphasis is placed on using technology tools to increase productivity and quality.

Prerequisite(s): (CIS 141 or CSCI 145C)

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2021; fall 2021; fall 2022

CIS 321    Emerging Information Technologies    3 Hours

Overview of the most recent tools and techniques in information technology and their utilization in the business environment.

Prerequisite(s): (CIS 141 or CSCI 145C)

Course Fee: $40

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

CIS 449    Independent Study in Computer Information Systems    3 Hours

Directed study and research in one area of computer information systems.

Prerequisite(s): BDAN 305

Recent Term(s) Offered: None