NUS-ISS' MTech EBAC has given Mr Ang Rui Xiang more career options, especially in analytics-related fields
He was given the opportunity to work as an analysis executive even though he had a bachelor of science in Physics. However, as he did not have a background in analytics, Mr Ang Rui Xiang could offer little value-add.
The 28-year-old decided to enrol in the part-time Master of Technology in Enterprise Business Analytics (MTech EBAC) programme at Institute of Systems Science at National University of Singapore (NUS-ISS). This allowed him to immediately apply his newfound skills at work.
"The first module I took, Foundation of Business Analytics, helped ease me into the world of business analytics. It laid the groundwork for subsequent modules," said Mr Ang.
To ensure students get up-to-date information, professionals from the industries are often invited as guest lecturers to share their expertise.
"Our staff have many years of industry experience and can share their experience, not just textbook answers," said Dr Leong Mun Kew, deputy director of NUS-ISS.
Workplace issues, analysed
Mr Ang said students are often encouraged to tackle actual problems through assignments.
"For my final-year project, I am supposed to tackle a real-life business problem at my workplace from an analytics angle.
"This lets me use the skills that I've picked up to solve a problem that is relevant to me," he added.
Lessons are usually held on Saturdays, which helped him balance studies, work and family commitments.
He could also count on online discussions. His lecturers were even willing to meet him for further discussions.
Boosting career options
Mr Ang felt that the greatest benefit from enrolling in the MTech EBAC programme was being able to learn a new, highly relevant skill that is transferable across multiple industries.
After he graduates in July next year, he intends to continue gaining experience by tackling more business problems at his workplace.
"Previously, having a bachelor's degree in Physics meant that my career options were limited to physics-related work or other roles that required a general bachelor's degree."
Mr Ang added that acquiring new skills in a new area has opened the door to other options in analytics-related fields.
"Not only was I able to take up more roles at my workplace, I could also stand on the same level as fellow analysts in exchanging ideas," he said.
"Everyone should take a leap of faith and embark on lifelong learning. It may be challenging at first, but it will be worth it in the end when your worldview and horizons are expanded."