Director of George Mason University’s Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program, Mehmet Altug, found his passion while studying industrial engineering as an undergraduate. Altug says he took classes on manufacturing management, supply chain planning, and operations research, and liked the combination of quantitative models and business problems.
Fast forward to today, and Altug, in addition to bringing his expertise to the MSBA program, also serves as an associate professor of operations management at the Costello College of Business.
Before starting his PhD, Altug worked at the high-tech business unit of i2 Technologies as a supply chain consultant, solution architect, and a project lead. During this period, he worked on several large-scale supply chain projects at high-profile companies around the world. His research interests focus on the area of pricing and revenue management, retail operations, and supply chain management. Altug holds a PhD in decision, risk and operations from Columbia Business School.
Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Altug to learn more about his vision for the MSBA program, his own teaching process, and his thoughts on how Mason’s MSBA program is All Together Different.
How does the MSBA program’s curriculum effectively prepare students for professions in business analytics?
The program’s curriculum has an intense focus on methodologies and techniques actively used in businesses today and a final hands-on project that students undertake during the capstone class. The program has great faculty with relevant professional experience, and students will be constantly supported by our excellent staff and advisors.
As academic director, what is your vision for the future of the MSBA program? How do you plan to accomplish this?
We need to stay current so that our students can continue to be successful. I seek feedback from students and faculty and monitor student performance to use as a metric to further improve our program. We also want to make sure that our graduates have good placement records. I hope to establish a system where we stay connected with our alumni who can point out how we can further improve our program. Given that business analytics is a fast-changing field, we will also consider establishing certificates for those who want to continue to take more advanced analytics classes at Mason. I am also planning to establish ways to connect our students with the centers at the Costello College of Business.
As a professor, what is your teaching strategy to get the most out of your students?
I try to create a more open and engaging classroom environment where students can learn from one another. I ask students to come prepared for each class so that they can get the most out of it. I make use of in-class exercises, games, and simulations to create a more hands-on learning experience which also helps students understand where they need to focus.
What else would you like to tell future applicants about the program?
In addition to everything I said earlier about the program, I would tell new applicants that they will have a very diverse, like-minded and well-accomplished group of friends once they join the program. George Mason University is at a great location that is close to a number of vibrant city centers that offer many social and professional opportunities.
What do you appreciate the most about Mason?
The opportunity to be part of a great group of faculty who are working at the forefront of their fields and a diverse and accomplished student body! Mason is a very innovative and dynamic university offering a collegial environment and the opportunity to grow for its students, staff and faculty.
What are some of your favorite things to do in your off time?
Spending time with family and friends, walking and running in nature, biking, traveling, reading, and listening to music.
Tell us something interesting about yourself.
I went hiking at Grand Canyon (Kaibab and Bright Angel Trails) and the Arenal Volcano National Park (and no it was not during its last eruption in 2010!)
Mason’s Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program is designed to deepen your knowledge of analytics and data-driven decision-making in business. The MSBA is a STEM-designated program, and will help you build diverse business skills and confidence while expanding your professional network.
If you’re interested in learning more about Mason’s Master of Science in Business Analytics program, register for an upcoming info session or request more information about the program here.