# BAN317 Data Analytics, Machine Learning, and Business Forecasting

College of Business and Criminal Justice Business Department

**Course Description:** This course introduces practical approaches to business forecasting and decision support using artificial intelligence and modern data tools. Students will work in cloud-based environments to analyze data using guided tools that support SQL-style operations and Python workflows. Key activities include structuring multi-tab datasets, creating KPI dashboards for cost, risk, and performance, and applying AI-assisted predictive models to inform business decisions. Learners will calculate and interpret forecasting and error metrics to evaluate scenarios and validate spreadsheet-based analyses. Emphasis is placed on using enhanced analytics platforms to run and interpret models, compare outcomes, and generate clear, stakeholder-ready reports. Throughout the course, students will practice responsible AI use by ensuring transparency, traceability, and reliability in their data-driven recommendations.

**Credit Hours:** 3.00

**Prerequisites:** All of: [BUS121](https://www.ecpi.edu/course/BUS121 "View BUS121")

**Corequisites:** None

## Programs offering this course

- [Business Administration | Accounting Concentration](https://www.ecpi.edu/programs/accounting-bachelor-degree)
- [Business Administration | Business Analytics Concentration](https://www.ecpi.edu/programs/business-analytics-bachelor-degree)
- [Business Administration | Operations, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management Concentration](https://www.ecpi.edu/programs/operations-supply-chain-management-bsba-bachelor-degree)
- [Organizational Leadership | Operations, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management Concentration](https://www.ecpi.edu/programs/operations-supply-chain-management-bsol-bachelor-degree)

Learn more about the [programs available at ECPI University](https://www.ecpi.edu/programs).