Empowering students to meet the challenges of an AI and data-driven world

In our fast-moving digital world, everything has become a source of information - data from social media, email exchanges, consumption habits, GPS data, bank transactions - the list is endless. Data is now at the core of almost every business decision and all kinds of organizations are converting this vast amount of information into strategic resources. But how should all this data be stored and used? How can companies capitalize on data and AI to improve their marketing, sales, or logistics? In this interview, Vincent Fraitot, Academic Director of the MSc Data Science & AI for Business at HEC Paris, explains how this world-leading program provides students with the necessary skills and know-how to meet these specific challenges and achieve their career ambitions.

What makes the program unique?

When we ask participants or alumni what they believe is the key differentiator of the program, almost all of them emphasize that it is a two-year program, allowing for a deep understanding of Data Science and AI from mathematical, technological, and business perspectives.

The second point they highlight is the program’s dual focus on both Data Science and AI and how to apply these technologies to create and grow businesses.

I would also highlight that the instructors are either top-tier professors or leading industry professionals, many of whom are alumni of the program themselves!

In what ways has the program evolved for the new academic year?

This program was created just seven years ago, and the curriculum has evolved every year to adapt to the skills companies require. This means that each year, we update around 20% to 40% of the courses in the second year at HEC Paris. For instance, three years ago, we enhanced the AI component by introducing courses, particularly in Deep Learning, to teach students how to create, design, and apply Neural Networks, including Large Language Models (LLMs).

This is one of the reasons why we decided to rename the program to “Data Science and AI for Business”.

What are the key benefits of the program?

This world-class program enables participants to truly understand and master Data Science and AI, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to help businesses grow. The key advantage is that they acquire the highly sought-after skills that companies struggle to find in the job market.

How important is the AI dimension of the program?
 
AI is at the core of the program, with Data Science being a key component of AI. Therefore, all subjects covered over the two years are AI-related. The methodology is strongly focused on learning by doing — combining theory with numerous individual and group projects. This approach ensures a deep understanding of both the concepts and their practical applications.

How does the partnership with École Polytechnique work? What are the main advantages?

It has been highly successful from the start! The first year at École Polytechnique focuses heavily on theory—covering linear algebra, statistics, probability, and coding—which is then applied in the second year at HEC Paris to real-world business challenges provided by companies. These companies supply datasets and ask students to work on solving their business problems.

Of course, there are projects during the first year at École Polytechnique, just as there are courses during the second year at HEC. 

The key to the success of this partnership is the way École Polytechnique and HEC Paris complement each other.

What is your role as Academic Director? What gives you the most satisfaction?
 
I am responsible for designing and optimizing the program’s curriculum—identifying the key skills to be learned, selecting the most effective teaching methodologies, and choosing the best professors or instructors for each subject. Finding the right solution, even if not always on the first try, brings me immense satisfaction.

While my role is primarily focused on educational engineering (which I absolutely love!), I also play a crucial part in supporting participants throughout the year, particularly when they face important decisions, such as whether to join a company or a consulting firm.

What career opportunities does the program open up?

Participants become world-class Data Scientists and AI Engineers, having dual expertise in both technology and business. This enables them to create innovative and resilient startups, join big or small companies to help to develop business and join prestigious consulting firms.

As I always tell them at the beginning of the second year, the only challenge they’ll face when it comes to choosing a job is deciding between the numerous offers they’ll receive.

With the rapid and constant evolution of both AI and data science, the need for professionals with these rare skills and knowledge has never been greater. The MSc Data Science & AI for Business at HEC Paris is specifically designed to meet this demand by blending rigorous academic training with hands-on experience in real-world application. Graduates of this program are not just prepared to face the challenges of the modern business landscape—they are empowered to lead, innovate, and shape the future of industries worldwide. In a world increasingly driven by technology, they hold the key to unlocking the potential of AI and data science and making a transformative impact.

Vincent Fraitot is an Associate Professor in the Strategy and Business Policy department at HEC Paris, and the Academic Director of the MSc Data Science & AI for Business. He has over 30 years of experience managing new technologies, Digital and Data in international and multicultural organizations and he shares the significant expertise he has gained in the classroom. In 2022, Vincent received the prestigious Pierre-Vernimmen-BNP-Paribas Teaching Award.

Find out more about the MSc Data Science & AI for Business , ranked #3 worldwide (QS ranking, 2025)