Posted on August 8, 2025
As a founding academic partner of the Digital4Business Master’s programme, NOVA Information Management School (NOVA IMS) brings cutting-edge expertise in data science, AI, and digital transformation to the heart of this EU-backed initiative. With a strong focus on real-world application and emerging technologies, NOVA IMS is helping shape the next generation of digital leaders across Europe.
A global leader in information management education, NOVA IMS currently serves over 4,000 students across 10 degree programmes and numerous postgraduate courses. The school’s reputation for excellence continues to grow, with five of its Master’s and postgraduate programmes recently ranked in the global top 5 by Eduniversal. As a member of the prestigious iSchools consortium, NOVA IMS is one of the world’s most respected institutions in the field of information science.
In Digital4Business, NOVA IMS applies its signature strengths to deliver high-impact learning, blending academic rigour with practical insight, and preparing professionals to lead Europe’s digital future.
As the research centre of NOVA IMS, MagIC comprises over 100 senior and junior professors and researchers, including experts recognised on Stanford University’s top 2% and top 1% Scientists List for 2024. NOVA IMS’s mission is to advance the fields of information management and data science, inspiring the next generation of researchers, and to use information management and data science to improve productivity and sustainability through informed, fact-based decision-making while promoting data-driven decision-making tools and methods.
Over the past five years, NOVA IMS has secured over 30 R&I projects through national and international competitive programs such as Horizon 2020/Horizon Europe, Digital Europe, ERASMUS+, and Technical Support Instrument.
A legacy of excellence and future-ready education combined
Since its establishment in 1989, NOVA IMS has developed a reputation as a hub for interdisciplinary education and research. It ranks among the world’s best in QS and Eduniversal rankings, a testament to its commitment to quality and innovation in education. It also strongly emphasises preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow. The educational programmes are rooted in real-world applications, blending rigorous academic theory with hands-on experience in areas such as data science, artificial intelligence, and business analytics.
The school’s cutting-edge research fosters collaboration with industries, ensuring graduates are not only knowledgeable but also equipped with practical, actionable skills. This approach has earned NOVA IMS accolades for its contribution to solving global challenges through innovation in data management and digital transformation.
Leveraging new technologies and teaching practical skills
As a key academic partner, NOVA IMS leads the teaching of 4 key modules:
- Data Science for Business
- Generative AI
- Business Programming
- Risk and Change Management
In the Data Science for Business module, students delve into leveraging data science to foster innovation and achieve impactful outcomes. The course explores advanced data science techniques and algorithms, emphasising creative problem-solving and optimisation of models essential for digital transformation.
Students develop the ability to conduct in-depth data analysis using statistical and machine learning methods, gaining expertise in synthesising insights for strategic decision-making and clear communication.
“We want our students to engage deeply with data science concepts such as machine learning, data-driven insights, business intelligence, and foundational statistics, because these skills are crucial for understanding and solving the complex challenges of today’s data-rich world,” says NOVA IMAS Professor Roberto Henriques ,describing the goals of the Data Science course.
Roberto Henriques’ research and industry collaborations have driven meaningful progress in the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning, contributing to both academic innovation and practical, real-world applications.
He continues: “In the Generative AI module, we will talk about the most recent developments and the impact on a business. We expect students to understand what generative AI is and how they can implement it with prompting and automating work with code and content generation. We will also discuss ethical issues regarding the use of generative AI in a real business.”
If you are interested in programming languages and how to manipulate them, the Business Programming module will advance your knowledge in this field. You’ll explore various programming paradigms and languages, focusing on creating innovative solutions. Students will learn to design web and mobile apps using low-code/no-code strategies and business analytics. The course also emphasises leadership in managing software projects and integrating data science and machine learning.
When you take the Risk and Change Management module, you’ll find out how to create a workplace culture that values flexibility, agility, and lifelong learning. You’ll learn how to apply the principles of risk and change management in your industry and understand how digital transformation affects business models and workforce dynamics.
Innovative learning and practical skills: What NOVA IMS brings to Digital4Business
What can students expect from your university during their time on the programme?
Roberto: At NOVA IMS, students in the Digital4Business programme can expect a vibrant, future-focused academic journey that blends cutting-edge knowledge with hands-on experience. Our learning environment is deeply collaborative and rooted in real-world relevance, preparing students to thrive in fast-evolving digital and data-driven industries.
Through personalised mentoring, students receive expert guidance in data science, AI and digital transformation. They engage in hands-on projects and case studies based on real industry challenges, gaining practical skills that are directly applicable in today’s digital economy.
How does your university prepare D4B students for their future careers?
At NOVA IMS, we prepare students for successful careers by equipping them with in-demand skills in data science, artificial intelligence, business analytics, and digital strategy. Our curriculum emphasises practical learning through real-world projects, case studies, and industry challenges. Students receive personalised mentoring from experienced faculty and benefit from strong connections to industry through guest speakers, collaborative research, and career development sessions. With a focus on innovation, critical thinking, and digital leadership, NOVA IMS ensures students are ready to drive transformation in businesses across Europe.
How does your university incorporate emerging trends such as generative AI, data science, programming, or digital transformation into its research and teaching?
At NOVA IMS, emerging trends like generative AI, data science, programming, and digital transformation are central to both our teaching and research. Our courses are continually updated to reflect the latest developments, integrating real-world tools and technologies used by industry leaders. Students explore topics such as machine learning, large language models, and responsible AI through hands-on projects and applied research. Faculty members lead cutting-edge studies on the societal and business impacts of digital innovation, ensuring that teaching is grounded in current, forward-looking insights.
What is your university’s vision for the long-term impact of the Digital4Business programme on European SMEs and the broader business landscape?
NOVA IMS envisions the Digital4Business programme as a catalyst for digital maturity across European SMEs and the broader business landscape. By empowering professionals with advanced skills in AI, data science, and digital strategy, the programme contributes to a new generation of leaders capable of driving innovation, competitiveness, and resilience. Our goal is to reduce the digital divide, enabling SMEs to harness data-driven decision-making and emerging technologies effectively. In the long term, we see D4B graduates shaping a more inclusive, agile, and sustainable digital economy across Europe.
Taking control of your future in a digital-first world
As a key partner in the Digital4Business Master’s Programme, NOVA IMS exemplifies the power of collaboration in higher education. Together with our other partner universities, it offers students the opportunity to experience a truly global education while addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Stay tuned as we continue to explore the strengths of our university partners and highlight the unique opportunities they bring to this groundbreaking master’s programme.
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