Preparing the next generation of AI and tech professionals

[#1]

Since 2006, when SAS and North Carolina State University launched the first analytics master’s degree, the demand for graduates with AI and tech skills has increased dramatically.

Combined Academic & Industry accreditation

Closer to home SAS supports 30 similar joint degree programs across Australia and New Zealand via the SAS® Academic Specialisation program. The program provides significant business value by equipping students with data, AI and technology skills, enhancing their ability to make data-driven decisions. As industry increasingly relies upon AI to gain a competitive edge, the demand for graduates skilled in technology to leverage AI is growing. The Academic Specialisation program supports higher education institutes design industry focused curricula, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. And it helps universities, polytechnics and colleges develop graduate talent with the type of skill and knowledge that industry typically looks for when recruiting. By preparing students to work in a data-rich business environment and developing their knowledge to use SAS software to apply AI and analytics techniques to solving real-world type business problems. And it aims to provide this flow of talent for the decades to come.

Ensuring students’ skills are aligned with trends in the labour market

SAS works closely with each institution to develop a joint program. Programs cover a variety of subject areas, and from a business perspective, it provides access to future talent with AI and SAS skill which translates into improved ability to analyse and interpret real world data and develop effective business insights, for example, developing marketing strategies, optimizing supply chains, enhancing customer experiences, and managing financial risks.

The SAS Academic Specialisation also promotes a culture of continuous learning and professional development. It signals to employers, that the graduate values applied knowledge and expertise and is committed to maintaining high standards of competence. This can enhance the company’s reputation as it attracts this top talent.

Our local partners

In Australia and New Zealand, SAS supports Academic Specialisations at:

• Melbourne Business School (MBS)
• La Trobe University
• University of South Australia
• Swinburne University
• RMIT
• University of New South Wales
• University of Wollongong
• James Cook University
• Melbourne Polytechnic
• Analytics Institute of Australia
• Massey University
• Auckland University of Technology

The full global list can be found here.

For example, the partnership with MBS tackles the need to develop data visualisation, AI, predictive analytics and risk, marketing and supply chain analytics skill.

By supporting the Business Schools Master of Business Analytics program for 10 years the SAS Academic Specialisation Program has allowed both MBS and SAS to recognise those students’ who have developed industry-ready knowledge and skills to use data and AI techniques alongside SAS technology, to analyse and visualise expansive data, identify trends and use this insight to develop data driven strategies. With these business-ready skills, MBS Master of Business Analytics graduates are well-placed to secure one of the many exciting career opportunities offered by businesses in Australia and internationally.

Value to industry

As the pace of digital transformation increases, it is clear that skilling the future workforce needs to be carefully considered. The shortage of AI and analytics skills is a global concern and organisations are grappling with both the challenges and opportunities presented. While more organisation are using analytics to improve their decision-making, there is a lack of qualified practitioners available with the appropriate experience to meet the demand. The SAS Academic Specialisation is part of the solution to develop AI and analytic skills and practical experience of application.