Embrace a new business landscape with JCU

As the world rapidly changes, businesses continue to evolve to keep up with the times. In fact, we stand on the brink of a technological revolution that will spark significant shifts in the way we live, work and relate to one another. This profound twist refers to the fourth industrial revolution or ‘Industry 4.0’, a term that encompasses the combination of several major technological innovations including advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things – all of which are expected to have a dramatic impact on the business landscape.

Demand for digital skills

Industry 4.0 brings many challenges, which lead to a more responsive and data-driven environment that demands collaboration. In light of this, professionals must be prepared for the future of work by investing in new knowledge and skills. In addition, the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation of many organisations, and instigated a higher demand for digital skills.

SkillsFuture Singapore has identified a number of essential digital skills that are in growing demand among “tech-lite” roles (which don’t require specialised and advanced IT skills), reflecting their strength, versatility and transferability across sectors. These include technology application, which comprises of skills to operate, adopt, and apply new technology; data analysis and analytical skills, such as data collection, data management, interpretation, and visualisation, applied towards research or business; and market research, which involves skills that enable businesses to make informed decisions.

Developing brilliant minds 

To cater to the needs of an evolving professional landscape, James Cook University (JCU) in Singapore offers a diverse range of courses to provide a deeper understanding of contemporary business practices. In fact, the university offers part-time Master of Business Administration (MBA) programmes with specialisations in three in-demand fields: Analytics and Business Solutions, Global Talent Management, and Creative Marketing. These specialisations are key to equipping professionals with the knowledge and expertise necessary to adapt and excel in the modern business world.

With the rise of big data, businesses increasingly need managers who can quickly analyse and understand the implications of a huge amount of information. Data analytics and digitalisation are key components in the MBA curriculum, across three specialisations. “Our curriculum helps working adults to prepare for a changing business environment where digitalisation and big data play an increasingly important role,” explains Associate Professor Pengji Wang. In particular, the Analytics and Business Solutions major gives students state-of-the-art tools and techniques to sort and analyse data, and make a valuable organisational impact based on the findings.

“We stand on the brink of a technological revolution that will spark significant shifts in the way we live, work and relate“

A focus on excellence

In 2021, the Singapore campus of JCU earned the business accreditation from AACSB – a sign of excellence in business education. Achieving this accreditation involves a rigorous review process, and an evaluation conducted by peers in the business education community.

Less than six percent of the world’s schools offering business degree programmes hold the prestigious AACSB business accreditation. In addition, a total of 910 institutions across 58 countries and territories have earned AACSB accreditation in business. Only a small handful of universities and business schools in Singapore have achieved this distinction.

Empowered by the accreditation, JCU in Singapore will be able to further innovate and improve upon its business offerings. What’s more, students who graduate from AACSB-accredited schools have a better opportunity to connect with sought-after employers, as well as some of the best minds in business, to solve the most pressing challenges facing businesses and society.

Ultimately, JCU in Singapore recognises the important role business education plays in creating outstanding leaders that can make a difference. Earning this accreditation reflects the university’s dedication, capabilities, and strong foundation in business, as it continues to focus on delivering unique and diversified programme offerings, in order to create a meaningful, positive impact worldwide. 

Data-driven approaches

The Creative Marketing major places data-driven creativity at its core and combines marketing knowledge with advanced management and analytical skills. Students taking up this major can enhance their market research skills with data-driven approaches.

In addition, the Global Talent Management major welcomes those interested in the field of human resources (HR). It equips students with HR professional knowledge and practical tools, HR ethics and social responsibility, global vision, and team building and problem-solving abilities. 

Associate Professor Wang notes that many universities offer general MBA programmes without specialisation. The three specialisations offered by JCU in Singapore are designed to incorporate the latest international business trends and newest management tools and techniques of the specialised area — in addition to the most common competences such as leadership, team management, and strategic thinking.

“Specialisation allows students to deepen and enrich their expertise, and keep up with the latest trends in their chosen area. Students will be able to apply the new knowledge and skills gained throughout the part-time MBA in a quick and practical way.” Moreover, JCU’s current part-time MBA offering is only an additional four months compared to its full-time counterpart, ensuring that part-time students are still afforded the opportunity to swiftly complete their degree while balancing other responsibilities. 

The Singapore campus of JCU is located at 149 Sims Dr, 387380. Discover more at www.jcu.edu.sg