How to Become a Data Analyst

There are many different types of jobs in the industry which require a strong eye for detail and assessment capabilities. Out of such jobs, a career as a data analyst is an important one. As the name suggests, this expert is responsible for analyzing and sorting data for future reference and conclusions. This is a job that may be required in any field such as IT, finances, retail, sales, etc. If you are planning to get into this field of work, it is suggested to have the necessary educational qualifications along with an eye for detail, calculation, and data management.

How to Become a Data Analyst

When it comes to the education needed to become a data analyst, you need to have an associate's degree or more preferably a bachelor's degree in the field you intend to work in. Remember that if you want to get into the business or finance field, then you need to opt for a relevant degree in accounting, banking, or financial management or even business administration. In case you want to enter the IT job sector as a data analyst, it is suggested to go in for courses associated with computer science. This is applicable for both an associate's and a bachelor's degree.

You may even be hired with either of these two degrees, as employment for these professionals varies from company to company. You may even obtain a master's degree in the fields mentioned above, which would be a positive aspect in the competitive job industry. Gain education with a concentration in subjects like business analysis and intelligence. Coming to IT skills, a potential data analyst needs to possess functional knowledge in data warehousing, MS Office, SQL, RDBMS, SAS, Crystal Reports, and project management applications.

Note that all these areas of expertise would primarily vary from employer to employer as per specific job requirements. It is recommended to register for a course that provides an internship, which would give useful practical knowledge. There are even certifications in the field of data analysis. Two of the most popular certifications are Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) administered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) and Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP) from The Data Warehousing Institute (TDWI).

You can even consider enrolling in a business analysis course from a reputed university. In order to enroll for professional certifications like these, it is essential that you have certain educational qualifications and work experience. You should also display knowledge in concepts such as management and planning, documentation and analysis, and enterprise assessment. An important step in becoming a data analyst is working in any possible job such as a computer programmer, an administrative executive, a database administrator or a financial assistant.

Job Description

• Obtaining particular information from an ocean of data using data analyzing techniques.
• Entering records for data in respective data management applications.
• Creating reports and monitoring information as per sorting specifics in databases.
• Coming to statistical findings and conclusions and documenting them for reference.
• Arranging findings and figures in a way understandable to clients.
• Being proficient in working on data management applications and systems.

Salary Range

Years of Experience Median Salary Scale 0 to One Year $36,000 - $52,000 One to Four Years $39,000 - $55,000 Five to Nine Years $44,500 - $63,000 10 to 19 Years $48,000 - $68,000 Over 20 Years $58,000 - $84,500

State of Employment Median Salary Scale New York $41,000 - $60,500 California $45,500 - $65,500 Texas $40,000 - $58,500 Virginia $43,000 - $63,000 Illinois $44,000 - $58,000

City of Employment Median Salary Scale New York City $42,000 - $63,500 Houston $44,000 - $56,000 San Francisco $49,500 - $68,000 Chicago $45,000 - $61,000 Boston $44,500 - $65,500

This is some general information on how to become a data analyst, the duties involved, and the remuneration. To succeed in this career, you need to be willing to learn about the latest trends in technology and corporate theories and concepts. Along with all these, analytical thinking also is a basic requirement to excel. Hopefully, by now you might have understood about the career path and duties of a data analyst.