The Department of Information and Decision Sciences (IDS) focuses on the vital role of data analytics, operations management, and information systems in modern organizations, with expert faculty who blend academic research and industry experience to prepare students for leadership in a tech-driven global market.
Department of IDS Leadership
The Center for Applied Analytics
The Center for Applied Analytics enables collaboration with business communities, government, and not-for-profit agencies seeking innovative use of analytics. The Center for Applied Analytics’ focus is to aid its partners in rapidly adopting new and emerging applications of analytics and decision-making to drive efficiencies and differentiation.
Research In Action
Selva Nadarajah
Selva Nadarajah is an associate professor of Information and Decision Sciences. His research focuses on dynamic valuation and decision-making in investment and operations, helping organizations navigate disruption and advance sustainability. His team studies energy transition through risk and reinforcement learning, collaborating with international organizations and national laboratories like Argonne. Recognized as a UIC Global Scholar, Dr. Nadarajah develops decision models and algorithms for managing risk in large-scale operations. As the Decision Intelligence R&D lead at the Discovery Partner’s Institute (DPI) in Chicago, he helps municipalities and businesses align financial and sustainability goals.
Brad Sturt
Brad Sturt is an assistant professor of Information and Decision Sciences. His research leverages optimization and analytics to address complex societal issues. Recently, he has focused on enhancing the security and administration of U.S. elections. Collaborating with agencies like the Michigan Bureau of Elections, he has developed innovative methods for optimal ballot inventory management and rigorous testing of voting machines. These advancements have been implemented in elections through the country and inspired the creation of a startup dedicated to improving election processes. Dr. Sturt’s research also spans revenue management, refugee resettlement, and financial engineering.
Department of Information and Decision Sciences News
IDS Degrees
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BS Information Decision Sciences
Our Bachelor of Science in IDS prepares students for leadership in the information age. The degree is grounded in research-based curriculum and corporate-sponsored project courses that give students the proven experience firms are looking for. IDS majors explore the potential of new technology to alter business operations, analysis and strategy. Students graduate ready to meet the growing demand for business technologists. -
MS Business Analytics
Gain the skills to analyze large data sets and uncover insights using data visualization, statistical modeling, and data mining techniques. Develop expertise in data management, machine learning, and predictive analytics while adopting a holistic approach grounded in a strong business foundation. Earn a STEM-designated degree. -
MS Management Information Systems
This STEM-designated degree equips you to leverage technology to enhance business practices. Learn to design, implement and manage systems that drive strategic and operational decisions. With an emphasis on business intelligence, AI and data mining, and supply chain management, the degree prepares you for leadership roles such as project manager, technology leader, or CIO, all under the guidance of renowned research and clinical faculty. -
MS Supply Chain and Operations Management
Globalization, big data, e-commerce, social media and AI are driving big changes in supply chain and operations. This STEM-designated degree will provide you foundational knowledge in analytical modeling, enterprise systems, and AI and analytics to help you excel in this area. -
PhD in Business Administration: IDS Emphasis
The UIC PhD in Business Administration with a focus in Information and Decision Sciences prepares future scholars and industry leaders to tackle complex business challenges through advanced analytics, data science, and operations research—driving innovation across sectors like healthcare, finance, energy, and retail. -
PhD Management Information Systems
This STEM-designated program prepares future scholars to lead impactful research in the technical, economic, and organizational aspects of information systems, with strong career prospects in academia and research institutions.
