Updated 07/14/2025
Technology is everywhere, and it will only become more prevalent. Therefore, computer science, machine learning, and data analytics skills are crucial components of the Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics (M.S. BIDA).
Learning a programming language is the No. 1 skill you need to manage big data. By building on your computer knowledge skills, you will learn to reach through a sea of information, access your data sets, inform your decision-making, and use machine learning to push your data forward.
Choose between learning about R, Python, or both, and fast-track your work in statistics, math, and analysis to offer better, quicker, more effective business solutions.
Coding and Data Analytics for Beginners
Python is an open-source programming language that’s powerful, easy to read and write, and perfect for beginners. It’s an interpreted language, meaning you can speed up your coding and see your results faster.
You will use Python to develop advanced analytical models and statistical studies. Specific tasks that involve Python include importing data from external studies, examining business problems, and communicating findings — all within an application that allows you to perform, create, and script.
Python is adaptable enough to be used in programming artificial intelligence applications. For instance, business intelligence professionals can use Python to write deep learning programs and align code with machine learning techniques.
As professionals build skills for data analytics roles, learning Python will be essential. As outlined by Syntax Technologies,1 data analysts can use this programming language to:
- Process and analyze big data
- Create dashboards to present data
- Analyze statistics for insights
Are you ready to reach your full potential in your career?
Stand out from the competition and achieve your career goals with an online Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics from Saint Mary’s University.
Analyze, Display, and Store Your Data
The R programming language helps you visualize your statistics. From linear and nonlinear modeling to time-series analysis and clustering, it’s an open-source way to show off your data.
Students will use R to develop advanced models and studies, working to perform, create, and script. They’ll analyze a business problem, communicate their analysis, and propose a solution.
Learning R is important in data analysis because it’s a powerful tool for creating impressive data visualizations. As detailed by Emeritus, R provides a versatile library with interactive graphics for presenting data in an array of charts and diagrams.2 Through these visualizations, business analysts can demonstrate data findings in easy-to-grasp ways to organizational decision-makers.
As a student in this program, you will also use SQL. This programming language allows you to store your findings in a data warehouse for safekeeping, manipulation, and easy access. You’ll work directly with IT to build best-practice data storage and access.
By learning SQL, you will be able to apply a standardized language that is useful when working with databases. It enables business analysts to search and alter data more quickly, allowing them to glean insights that support company objectives.
Program Your Future
Experience in these languages boosts your value to employers in today’s technology-driven world. Use Python, R, and SQL to streamline your process, display your findings, and propose business solutions even faster.
You’ll also be ready to learn more difficult programming languages, adapt in step with technology, and help your organization succeed.
Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Learn more about the Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics, or explore our other key program takeaways.
Sources
- Syntax Technologies. “The Role of Python in Modern Data Analytics.” November 23, 2023. Retrieved May 22, 2025, from https://www.syntaxtechs.com/blog/the-role-of-python-in-modern-data-analytics-syntax-technologies/.
- Samarth, V. Emeritus. “What is the Importance of R for Data Science Professionals.” February 25, 2025. Retrieved May 22, 2025, from https://emeritus.org/in/learn/importance-of-r-in-data-science/.
