Have you ever considered a career in data analytics? If you love numbers and are looking to make a change in your career, then the path to your dream job is much closer than you think.
Data analysts turn raw data into organized, meaningful information that influences business decisions at the highest level. Whether you want to work for a local business or travel internationally for a Fortune 500 company, the need for data analysts has never been greater.
How to Get a Data Analyst Job
Many different paths can get you a careers as a data analyst, but it’s important to note that earning a degree is the fastest way and most secure route. Earning a degree will also ensure the highest potential salary and upward mobility.
Data analysts typically receive their bachelor’s degree in something that emphasizes statistical and analytical skills, such as math or computer science.
However, that’s not always the case. For example, as companies continue to value data analytical skills more and more, many people are taking an accelerated path by earning an advanced degree in Computer Science with a concentration in data analytics.
Between earning a degree and the industry-specific certification you can pick up along the way, the career possibilities are endless.
A path like this makes you well-versed in the four main categories of data analytics:
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Data Mining
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Data Management
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Statistical Analysis
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Data Presentation
These are extremely marketable skills that employers find critical in industries like insurance, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, retail, finance, and energy.
Real-World Applications of Data Analytics
Data analytics lives at the crossroads of IT, statistics, and business. Businesses around the world rely on data analysts to combine these skill sets to interpret data in a way that increases efficiency and improves business performance.
It's not hard to see why it’s such a valuable role in any organization.
Before you pursue a career in data analytics, you need to better understand the current career landscape, the path that gets you there, and which degree options are available to you. There’s no single route to becoming a data analyst and what is recommended for one person may be different for you.
Tip: Consider whether you want to learn about computer science vs. applied computer science!
On top of that, you also need to verify that this journey is going to be worth your time and resources. What are the salary expectations for data analytics professionals, what career trajectory options would be available to you, and what kind of investment of time and money will it require to take this journey?
Download Our Data Analytics Career Guide
To get answers to all of these questions and more, download our guide: How Data Analytics Can Jumpstart Your Career.
In this extensive resource, you’ll get insights and inside info, including:
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A better understanding of data analytics and how it’s used in business today
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Salary breakdowns of popular data analyst roles
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The first steps you should take to pursue a career in data analytics
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Why Southern’s MS in Applied Computer Science is the ideal avenue for you to advance your education and land your dream job in data analytics
Whether you’re already considering a job in data analytics or you’re just getting started, this guide will set you up with an action plan to help you break into the data analytics field.
