Webinar Recap | Lehigh University Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs in Business and Engineering: Business Analytics, Financial Engineering, and Data Science Insights

On June 5, 2023, HYP Global successfully hosted an online webinar featuring an in-depth introduction to three popular interdisciplinary graduate programs offered by Lehigh University’s College of Business and College of Engineering.

The webinar invited two former Lehigh University PMBC Training Camp students, Yang Liu and Jingwen Yu, along with Julian, a senior business analyst at a well-known bank, to discuss Business Analytics, Financial Engineering, Data Science, and STEM-designated programs.

During the webinar, the speakers provided detailed insights into the characteristics of Lehigh University’s interdisciplinary programs, including curriculum structure, application considerations, learning experiences, and future career development opportunities for students planning to apply for U.S. graduate programs.

In addition, the speakers shared their personal experiences participating in the PMBC (Pre-Master Bootcamp) program before enrolling at Lehigh University and explained how students can successfully transition from undergraduate studies to graduate-level learning.

The following is a summary of the key highlights from the webinar.

Introduction to Lehigh University’s Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs

At the beginning of the webinar, the speakers introduced graduate programs offered by Lehigh University’s College of Business and College of Engineering.

The discussion focused on the following programs:

• Business Analytics

• Financial Engineering

• One-Year MBA

• Data Science

These programs combine multiple fields, including business, finance, data analysis, and technology, making them suitable for students who hope to strengthen their professional competitiveness through interdisciplinary knowledge and analytical skills.

The speakers explained that as the business environment continues to evolve, interdisciplinary abilities have become increasingly valued across industries. Students are expected not only to develop expertise in their chosen fields but also to build skills in data analysis, technology application, and real-world problem-solving.

Data Science Program Learning Experience

During the webinar, current student Jingwen Yu shared her experience choosing the Data Science program at Lehigh University.

She explained that she had previously taken courses related to data analysis and gradually developed an interest in data science, which encouraged her to pursue further study in this field.

Lehigh University’s Data Science program covers a wide range of topics, from fundamental concepts to advanced applications, including courses related to data science foundations and Machine Learning.

For students without a computer science or data-related undergraduate background, entering the field of data science may present certain challenges.

The student shared that data science involves mathematics, statistics, and programming skills, requiring students to spend time adapting to a new knowledge framework.

However, through structured coursework and continuous practice, students can gradually develop data analysis capabilities and choose specialized areas based on their interests.

Business Analytics Program Overview

Business Analytics was another key topic discussed during the webinar.

The speakers introduced Business Analytics as a field that combines business management knowledge with data analysis skills. Students learn how to use data to support business decision-making and solve practical business problems.

During the program, students are expected not only to understand data processing methods but also to interpret business challenges within real-world contexts.

The webinar highlighted that Business Analytics is suitable for students interested in data-driven business roles, such as using analytical insights to improve business operations and enhance decision-making efficiency.

For students considering this field, the speakers recommended evaluating their undergraduate background, personal interests, and long-term career goals before making a decision.

Students who hope to pursue careers combining business strategy and data analysis may find Business Analytics to be a valuable direction to explore.

Financial Engineering Program Overview

Financial Engineering was another popular interdisciplinary field introduced during the webinar.

A current student shared his learning experience after entering the Financial Engineering program.

He explained that Financial Engineering differs from traditional finance programs because it combines financial knowledge with mathematics, statistics, and computational methods.

Students are required to study financial modeling, data analysis, and quantitative methods, which means strong analytical skills and mathematical preparation can be beneficial.

The webinar explained that Financial Engineering is suitable for students interested in financial markets, quantitative analysis, and technology-driven applications.

For students planning to enter finance-related industries, gaining an early understanding of course requirements and strengthening foundational skills in mathematics and programming can help them better adapt to graduate-level study.

STEM-Designated Programs and Career Development Opportunities

The webinar also introduced the STEM-designated One-Year MBA program.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designated programs emphasize the development of skills related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The speakers explained that interdisciplinary programs can help students expand their career opportunities.

For example, fields such as Business Analytics, Financial Engineering, and Data Science integrate technical skills with industry applications, allowing graduates to pursue a wider range of career paths.

During the webinar, the speakers also discussed employment opportunities and career directions related to these programs, encouraging students to begin career planning early based on their individual goals.

PMBC Helps Students Transition into Graduate-Level Learning

During the webinar, two current students also shared their experiences participating in the PMBC (Pre-Master Bootcamp) program.

As a transition program before graduate study, PMBC helps students become familiar with the U.S. higher education learning environment in advance.

The students explained that during PMBC, they were able to experience graduate-level learning expectations, including course pace, learning methods, and foundational knowledge related to their academic fields.

For students whose undergraduate backgrounds differ from their intended graduate programs, early preparation can help them adapt more quickly after beginning their official degree studies.

The students also noted that PMBC not only helped them bridge academic knowledge gaps but also allowed them to better understand the classroom learning style in U.S. universities.

How to Choose the Right Interdisciplinary Program?

At the end of the webinar, the speakers addressed questions regarding program selection.

For Business Analytics, Financial Engineering, and Data Science, the speakers recommended that students should not focus only on program titles but instead evaluate programs based on their own backgrounds, interests, and career goals.

For example:

• Students interested in business decision-making and data applications may consider Business Analytics.

• Students interested in financial markets, mathematical modeling, and quantitative analysis may explore Financial Engineering.

• Students who want to study data processing, machine learning, and technology applications in depth may consider Data Science.

Students should also consider their undergraduate preparation, future career objectives, and personal interests when making long-term academic plans.

Student Advice: Prepare Early and Utilize University Resources

During the webinar, current students emphasized the importance of proactive learning and planning after entering U.S. graduate programs.

In addition to completing coursework, students should actively utilize university resources, communicate with professors and classmates, and continuously improve their professional skills.

For students planning to apply to graduate programs at Lehigh University, gaining an early understanding of program characteristics, preparing academically, and establishing clear career goals can help them better adapt to graduate-level study and life.

Through this Lehigh University Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs Webinar, HYP Global hopes to help more students interested in pursuing graduate studies in the United States better understand fields such as Business Analytics, Financial Engineering, and Data Science, providing valuable guidance for future applications and academic planning.