The University of Iowa and Iowa State University proposed plans to add master’s degrees in business analytics to the Board of Regents Education and Student Affairs Committee.

The committee recommended the proposal to be taken to the regents.

Students who participate in the UI’s program would be required to take 30 semester hours of credit, 10 courses, in order to complete the degree. The program could be completed in as little as two years.

University administration expects many students in the program will be working professionals who would attend classes from 6 to 9:30 p.m. after their workdays.

The field of business analytics seeks to take complex big data and make them more understandable for companies.

— by Carly Matthew