Understanding EDHEC’s Approach to Data Science and AI Education

EDHEC is bridging the gap between academia and market trends and preparing graduates for successful careers in the dynamic field of Data Science and AI. Victor Planas-Bielsa, the Academic Director of the Master in Management – Data Science & AI for Business track at EDHEC Business School, shares how in this interview with MASTERGRADSCHOOLS.

EDHEC Business School prioritizes staying informed about the latest shifts in the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) landscape. 

Victor shares, “We are very attentive to the changes in the market. We have a lot of ongoing discussions with people in the industry, academia, and alumni. We are constantly receiving information about how new technologies are reshaping and changing the job skills that are required. All of this information is really integrated into our curriculum on an ongoing basis.” (00:23)

This continuous dialogue ensures that the curricula of EDHEC’s Master’s in Data – the MiM – Data Science & AI for Business track, the MSc in Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence, and the MSc in Marketing Analytics – remain relevant and address the specific skills employers are seeking. 

He further elaborates, “We try to always have programs that adapt to the job market. Our main objective is that our graduates, when they graduate from our Master’s in Data programs, find jobs that are appropriate for them and they can shine in their career.” (00:50)

Subsequently, EDHEC places great importance on graduate employability. Through regular interactions with industry professionals, academic experts, and alumni, they anticipate and respond to emerging industry trends. This ensures graduates leave with the precise skills and knowledge they need to excel in their careers.

A Closer Look at the MiM Program Structure

For a greater personalized learning experience, the MiM – Data Science and AI for Business program has several different specializations (MSc) in its final academic year.

During the first year, or Master 1, students learn foundational skills in data science and AI.  They develop skills in IT, coding, database management, statistical model development, and machine learning. They also have courses in business, management, and finance disciplines. In the second year, students spend a year gaining work experience through two 6-month internships.

Alternatively, students can choose to do a six-month exchange program and a six-month internship during the gap year.

In the third and final year, students choose a specialization (MSc) such as Data Analytics, Marketing Analytics, Finance, among others.

The Importance of Internships

Victor illustrates the importance of the second-year internship, offered in the MiM – Data Science & AI for Business track. Firstly, it is an excellent opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world scenario. Secondly, it is an exploration time in which they gain hands-on experience. Finally, it gives students a chance to mature and grow. (08:28) 

Students often complete their internships with highly-regarded and well-known companies such as Accenture, Amazon, Capgemini, Deloitte, Nike, KPMG, Orange, Unilever, among others. (09:52)

Through internships, students gain valuable hands-on experience, network with top industry professionals, and have a chance to apply their learning in a real-world setting.

Personalized Learning: Specializations (MSc)

Finally, in year 3, or Master 2, students gain more in-depth expertise. They can choose between the MSc in Financial Engineering, the MSc in International Finance, the MSc in Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence, and the MSc in Marketing Analytics. 

Or, they can choose to do a Double Degree with EURECOM by opting for a Master’s in Network and Telecommunications. They can major in Internet of Things, complete a Master’s in Computer Science, or major in Data Science. Students can also choose to do an exchange program in their final year.

Victor highlights, “There is a lot of cross-fertilization of the programs. It’s very interesting. Each student can adapt the curriculum to their needs.” (01:58)

This ensures that students get a broad understanding of the fundamentals while also being able to personalize their learning journey. They can tailor their student journey towards the career path they are interested in.

Responding to Job Market Demands

The creation of the MiM – Data Science & AI for Business track was a direct response to the increasing demand for professionals with strong technical skills in the fields of data science and AI.

Victor says about the launch of the program, “It’s really an answer to a request of the job market. There are more and more jobs that require technical skills in Python, AI, and an understanding of data in general. It was really a response to that.” (02:40)

Rather than adding these topics to existing courses, EDHEC recognized the need for a dedicated program to meet the demand for specialized skills. He confirms, “We decided that it would be more relevant to have a 2-year master specifically designed for these types of new jobs that are being created.” (03:12) 

He further explains, “We are going into a data-driven economy. All companies, even those who are not in the data space, will need to adapt to this new economy… so all jobs, especially in top management, will need to understand the value that data is providing for businesses.” (06:22)

Victor illustrates that in the future, a solid understanding of data will be crucial in all sectors. This is particularly true for the next generation of leaders and managers. This is where EDHEC is stepping up to supply these future leaders with the tools they will need.

Integrating Cutting-Edge Technologies

The MiM program at EDHEC, in particular the Data Science & AI for Business track, places cutting-edge technology at its core. The program incorporates AI, machine learning, and new technologies in all aspects of its curriculum, in addition to the business management and Finance courses.

Victor underscores, “Our students, from the first semester, start learning programming, Python, [about] databases, and SQL. They learn introduction to machine learning, they start to see some notions of deep learning… they have a really strong basis for that.” (03:38)

This early exposure ensures that students develop a strong technical foundation that they can leverage during their specializations and in their careers. This minimizes a skills gap between what students are taught and what is demanded of them in the modern workforce.

Orange Partnership: Bridging Academia and Industry

Another method to bridge the gap between academia and industry is through industry partnerships. Throughout the academic year, EDHEC Business School partners with companies such as Orange.

The MiM – Data Science & AI for Business program organizes activities and seminars with experts at Orange who teach topics such as ethics and data, machine learning, data pipelines, and more. This helps students to learn directly from industry professionals and gain first-hand insights. 

Victor notes, “It’s really the bridge between academic courses and what these techniques will look like in reality.” (04:49) 

He also highlights the hands-on Ethical AI Startup Challenge. In this project, students come up with a creative business idea that incorporates AI business solutions. Industry experts from Orange evaluate these projects. They offer students real-world advice and expert insights on their projects and pitches. It is also an excellent networking opportunity for the students.

The Significance of Ethics in AI Education

Beyond technical skills and industry know-how, EDHEC places great significance on teaching students the importance of ethics in AI.

Victor stresses, “We take it very seriously that AI needs to be used ethically.” (05:31) This is a central point throughout the program. However, in all the courses, professors highlight best practices and the ethical implications of using AI. 

Students learn about topics such as sustainability, AI biases, and responsibility when handling data and AI.

Thinking of Applying?

Is this program the right fit for you? The ideal candidate for this EDHEC program is passionate about data and AI. Candidates need a previous university degree in a related field (for example, mathematics or computer science) with completed ECT credits. 

Candidates coming from a different academic field are also welcome to apply if they can prove they have the technical abilities to follow the course. For example, by having completed an internship or research project using data science. However, the entry requirements are academic. This means that even without prior work experience, you are eligible to apply. 

Victor adds that motivation letters are closely read and very important for expressing your passion and capabilities to gain entry to this program.

Preparing Leaders for the Data-Driven Economy of Tomorrow

At EDHEC Business School, they take a proactive and comprehensive approach to data science and AI education. Continuously engaging with industry professionals and alumni and adapting their curriculum ensures their programs stay ahead of the curve.

Furthermore, by offering personalized learning paths through specializations, internships, and exchange programs, students benefit from a broad foundational course and in-depth expertise in their areas of interest. EDHEC is effectively equipping future leaders with the most relevant skills and up-to-date knowledge to shape the data-driven economy of tomorrow.

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