In today’s competitive job market, there’s a growing demand for professionals who can turn data into actionable insights. However, there’s a significant gap between employer needs and the number of qualified graduates to fill those roles.

Expand Your Future with a Quantitative Graduate Program

Student presenting business analytics presentation

XQuant is an exciting initiative at the college, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, designed to expand graduate programs in quantitative business fields. The initiative starts with the new Master of Science in Business Research, which offers a pathway for students like you to advance your career in business analytics, research or other data-driven fields.

Whether you are looking to boost your career or take the next step in your academic journey, this program provides you with the skills, support and opportunities you need to get ahead—faster.

For more information, email Margarita Alarilla, project director at xquant@utsa.edu or call 210-458-5311.

Determine Your Financial Aid Eligibility and Apply

Through XQuant initiatives, you may be eligible for financial assistance to help reduce the cost of graduate education. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Complete the Interest Survey

This is NOT a formal application, but it allows us to share program details and determine in advance whether you may qualify for financial support through the XQuant grant.

Step 2: Submit Your FAFSA

  • Go to FAFSA.gov
  • Use UTSA's school code (010115) to make sure your information reaches us
  • Submitting your FAFSA is required to be considered for XQuant financial support

Step 3: Review Your Eligibility

Once we receive your information, our team will follow up to discuss next steps. Completing both the interest survey and FAFSA ensures you'll be considered for XQuant financial support.

Step 4: Apply to the M.S. in Business Research

Complete your program application. Fee waivers are available for eligible students and our staff are available to assist you throughout the process.

Step 5: Apply for the XQuant Scholarship

After you are admitted to the M.S. in Business Research program, complete the XQuant scholarship application through the UTSA Scholarship Hub.

Complete the Interest Survey  Go to FAFSA.gov 
Note: Submitting the interest survey and FAFSA does not guarantee funding, but both are required to be considered.

Academic and Professional Support

Your success in graduate school goes beyond financial aid. Through XQuant, you’ll receive academic coaching and professional mentoring to help you thrive.

Classroom with professor and students working on whiteboard.
Pre-Program Orientation and Bootcamp

To help you succeed in this rigorous quantitative program, your preparation will begin before classes start. You’ll take part in a required bootcamp designed to strengthen your foundational skills in critical areas for business research:

  • Mathematics Foundations
  • Probability and Statistics
  • Linear Algebra

Writing Support Resources
Quantitative Research Pathway Support

You’ll have access to personalized academic support, including:

  • One-on-one guidance to navigate graduate-level coursework
  • Coaching tailored for student success in quantitative subjects
  • Comprehensive support if you’re considering applying to a Ph.D. program

Student mentee with mentor
Professional Mentoring with a Faculty Member

You’ll be paired with experienced faculty mentors who will help you:

  • Build your professional skills and confidence
  • Gain insight as you shape your career path in business research, analytics or related fields
  • Stay on track with regular check-ins and goal setting

Students presenting research poster

Launch Your Career in Business Research

Learn how the M.S. in Business Research equips you for high-impact roles in both industry and academia. Gain hands-on experience through real-world projects and seminars, customize your path with electives or a concentration and take advantage of funding opportunities. All credits transfer to UTSA’s Ph.D. in Business.

XQuant Faculty and Staff

UTSA Placeholder

Margarita Alarilla, Ed.D.

XQuant Project Director

margarita.macias@utsa.edu

BB 4.02.56

Vivian Lockard

Vivian Lockard, M.Ed.

Student Success Coach II

vivian.lockard@utsa.edu

BB 2.02.04

Rodrigo Velez

Rodrigo Velez, Ph.D.

Professor, XQuant Project Steering Committee Chair and Academic Director

rodrigo.velez@utsa.edu

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Natassa Zervou

Natassa Zervou, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, XQuant Research Pathway Director

anastasia.zervou@utsa.edu

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This project is possible thanks to PPOHA Grant P031M240034 from the U.S. Department of Education.