As part of its MA in Economics program, ISET has launched a new Concentration in Modern Data Analysis (MDA), which is aimed at providing young professionals with expertise in data (including big data) management and analysis using modern analytical tools. The concentration is currently funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia and is implemented in cooperation with the University of Tartu. ISET MA alumni and young professionals with equivalent education are eligible to participate in the concentration.

The concentration includes six core elective courses:

Existing courses:

• Advanced Econometrics

• Program Evaluation

• Financial Econometrics

Added courses:

• Introduction to Business Data Analytics

• Advanced Business Data Analytics

• Geospatial data analysis

Students in MDA concentration should take 5 of these courses (15 credits) during the second year of study (passing grade C or higher). MDA students are advised to take all courses related to the concentration.

Students will be required to attend seminars and research workshops specifically designed for the concentration. MDA students will have a chance to participate in the Data Sharing Practices workshop organized by ISET with the participation of local data collecting and analytical organizations. In addition, at the end of the academic year, students have to participate in the annual Data Hackathon organized by ISET and UT (held in Tbilisi). A student with promising MPs will be encouraged to present their work during the event.

They will also have to write a Master's Project (MP) related to the concentration. In the case of double concentration, the topic of the MP has to reflect both concentrations.

ISET will assist students accepted into the concentration to secure an internship in the field so that they build some practical experience before entering the job market. During the academic year, MDA students will have additional opportunities to interact with local data users and institutions operating in the region.