For Students

Student experiential projects, known as “practicums,” provide valuable opportunities for students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. Centered on AI and advanced analytics, students work on actual business problems to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through these hands-on experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of data analysis, enhance their technical proficiency and learn to communicate their insights effectively.

Practicums foster collaboration, with students working in teams and interacting with industry professionals. This prepares them for successful careers by bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application.

CABI offers two types of experiential learning opportunities: 

Traditional out-of-classroom practicums

Students engage in real-world projects outside the classroom, collaborating with industry partners on actual business challenges and applying advanced analytics to drive meaningful insights and solutions. This immersive experience allows students to gain hands-on practice, enhance their problem-solving skills and build professional relationships—all while receiving guidance and mentorship from faculty and industry experts.

Sponsored course practicums

Student teams participate in a structured course sponsored by a client, working to develop the best solutions for the client’s business problems. This competitive yet collaborative environment encourages students to leverage their analytical skills and creativity to outperform their peers. Throughout the course, students receive feedback and support, enabling them to refine their strategies and deliver impactful results. Students hone their technical and collaborative skills while also preparing them for high-stakes professional scenarios.

This course provided me with valuable experience that helped polish communication and problem-solving skills while gaining insight into the operation of startups.

Ya Li, Marketing Metrics participant

Infusing AI and data analytics into curricula

CABI enhances WashU Olin’s curriculum by integrating cutting-edge data analytics and real-world business challenges into learning experiences. We help CABI equip students with the essential skills and knowledge they need to become innovative leaders, keeping our curriculum dynamic and relevant in the rapidly evolving industries. 

Undergraduate

Undergraduate students can complement their major field of study with a business analytics minor, including courses addressing data management and analytics, financial technology, and people metrics. In fact, all BSBA students are required to take the Analytics for Modeling for Business Decisions class. Learn more about the BSBA program.

MBA

CABI’s framework for developing data-driven strategies is an important part of the MBA experience. MBA students study social and civic goals while they practice creating positive business outcomes. They learn to think of themselves as leaders of social change as well as leaders of prosperous businesses. And they learn what it means to be a responsible business leader. Learn more about the MBA program. 

Specialized Master’s

WashU Olin offers a master’s in business analytics in two formats—on campus and online. In both formats, students learn to master the power of analytics through technical skills and problem-solving abilities. Our on-campus program allows students to choose from one of six analytical tracks—accounting, customer, fintech, healthcare, supply chain and talent. Learn more about the on-campus MS in Business Analytics and online MS in Business Analytics.