Business Analytics for Business Mathematics

Data permeate. Decisions shape. Future move.

The business world is becoming increasingly data-driven. Today, companies collect vast amounts of information — from production processes, customer data, financial systems, social media, or the Internet of Things. But data alone is not enough. Only through systematic analysis and mathematically sound interpretation do real insights and sustainable decisions emerge.

As a student of Business Mathematics, you bring the ideal prerequisites for this: you think analytically, are methodologically skilled, and can structure complex problems. In the Business Analytics specialization at the institute of the same name, you will learn how to apply your mathematical skills in practice — at the intersection of mathematics, computer science, and business.

That Business Mathematics and Business Analytics complement each other perfectly is also shown by our former and current staff members. Several colleagues at the Institute for Business Analytics studied Business Mathematics at Ulm University themselves — demonstrating how versatile and practice-oriented the combination of mathematics, data analysis, and business can be, including:

Dr. Roland Graef (Hensoldt)
Dr. Lars Moestue (Eintracht Frankfurt)
Dr. Philipp Hühn (IBA, own startup)
Anna-Lena Kubillus (IBA, doctoral student)
Hannah Knehr (IBA, doctoral student)
Stefan Napirata (DASU, doctoral student)
Philipp Schröppel (IBA, doctoral student)

What is Business Analytics?

Business Analytics is concerned with the targeted use of data for analyzing, planning, and optimizing business processes. This is not only about “classical” numerical data but also about unstructured data such as texts, networks, or click paths. The goal: data-based decisions that create economic value.

Typical questions include, for example:

Which customer groups have an increased risk of churning?
Which products will be in demand in which region in the coming season?
Which factors truly drive business success?
How can production processes be managed more efficiently?

Why Business Analytics for Business Mathematics students?

“Business Analytics” offers you numerous advantages:

1. Mathematics in Action

You apply statistical models, optimization methods, and machine learning algorithms to real-world data problems. This way, you see how your theoretical knowledge transforms into practical solutions.

2. Interdisciplinary Skills

You learn to communicate with experts from business, IT, and management — a skill that often makes the difference in professional life. We emphasize teamwork, practice-oriented case studies, and digital tools.

3. Cutting-Edge Technologies

You work with modern analytics tools such as Python and gain insights into database systems and data warehousing — essential for later implementation in companies.

4. Career Opportunities

Data skills are in demand — across all industries. Whether in banking, insurance, industry, consulting, or research: with Business Analytics expertise, you are equipped to think analytically and act entrepreneurially.

What can you expect in our courses?

The Institute for Business Analytics teaches you the core concepts, methods, and tools for data-driven analysis and decision-making. You will learn:

Fundamentals and application areas of Business Analytics
Handling large, heterogeneous datasets
Understanding and modeling analysis processes in companies
Social Media Analytics, Text Mining, and Network Analysis
Digitalization and digital business models

Courses for Bachelor Business Mathematics

Leitung: Prof. Dr. Mathias Klier, Prof. Dr. Steffen Zimmermann

Beginn: SoSe