How Do I Become a Data Analyst?

If you enjoy the process of organizing and analyzing data, then you may be the perfect fit for a career in data analysis. When you become a data analyst, you can enjoy the opportunity to work flexible hours. While there are plenty of full-time positions available in this field, there are also plenty of opportunities for parents, students and other individuals to work on a part-time basis. Because of the flexibility that this career choice provides, it is a highly attractive choice for individuals who also want a stable career that requires minimal education. Maybe you have wondered, “How do I become a data analyst?” If you want to become a data analyst, then you should begin the process of obtaining an associate’s degree in medical information technology or a bachelor’s degree in information technology.

Recommended Data Analyst Programs

  1. Walden University – Accounting
  2. Kaplan University – Accounting

What’s it like to be a data analyst?

When you become a data analyst, the type of experience that you have will depend on the type of industry that you are in. If you are in the health care industry, then you will probably deal with minimal stress. You will have to enter patient data into a computer. You will also need to research patient data in order to compile information packages for insurance companies. On the other hand, your job as a data analyst may be more stressful if you work for a business. If you work for a business, then you may need to analyze profitability trends for the past year. A business may expect you to figure out the ways that it can cut costs. You may need to analyze marketing trends and make presentations to the marketing group of your business. You will need to discuss all of the ways that a business can improve its marketing efforts. This can be a stressful position, especially if you work in a fast-paced office.

Education Requirements

The education requirements for a data analyst career depend upon the type of industry that an individual aspires to work within. If one only wants an entry-level position in a medical office, then he or she can pursue an associate’s degree. There are other degree programs at colleges that provide individuals with certificates. These certificate programs may only take up to one year to complete. If you want to become a full-time analyst for a corporation, then you should pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, accounting or information technology. It will be important for you to have strong analytical abilities. You should be able to analyze information and present your own conclusions to high-powered business people.

Salary & How to Get a Job

The starting salary for a position also depends on the industry. In the medical industry, the starting salary for a data analyst can be $40,000 to $60,000. It may be significantly less if a person decides to accept a part-time position as a data analyst. If a person decides to enter into the business world, then his or her salary will be $60,000 to $80,000. To get a job at a business, you should try to apply for positions during your last year of college. If it is possible, then you should also try to gain experience in an internship position during your college years. This will teach you about the demands that you will face as a data analyst.

References:

1. http://www.ehow.com/about_6607671_job-description-data-analyst.html