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Career Development Denise Alexander, BS, MA QUIZ: Is Data Analytics Right for Me?
Jessica Neddersen Mar 15, 2021
Technology is a growing industry, and with that comes an ever-expanding amount of data. Organizations need data analysts to help them manage and interpret all of their data.
What does a data analyst do?
A data analyst collects, interprets and analyzes datasets to uncover facts, trends and insights to help organizations make decisions. Data analysts often work with an IT department, management and/or data scientists. Some of their job duties could include creating dashboards to monitor progress against organizational goals, reporting, designing and maintaining databases, and programming. The day-to-day responsibilities and routine for a data analyst can vary greatly based on their career path, position, location and tenure.
Data analysts are:
- Comfortable with mathematical approaches to problems
- Enjoy working in a variety of different corporate and organizational environments
- Skilled at problem-solving and analyzing issues
- Skilled at presenting and have the ability to break down complex issues in a simple way
What are some data analysis careers?
Data, information, systems, network and cloud security jobs are some of the most in-demand careers for 2021. While there are many work options for data analysts, some common data analytics career choices include:
- Operations research analyst: Operations research analysts use their math, analysis and research skills to help organizations solve complex issues across the organization. They typically provide insights or solutions that can help the organization run more efficiently and effectively. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of operations research analysts will grow 23% between 2023-2033.
- Market research analyst: Market research analysts evaluate and forecast market conditions to help companies and clients understand how to market their products or services. They often gather and analyze data on consumers, competitors, pricing, sales and marketing tactics that can inform their employer’s business strategy. The BLS predicts an 8% growth rate for market research analysts from 2023-2033.
What is the difference between a data analyst and a data scientist?
When looking into data analytics careers, you’ll likely come across another role known as a data scientist.
Data analysts sift through data and identify trends. They are apt at interpreting the data, showing what it means and providing recommendations on how their organization can apply the findings.
The role of a data scientist has a broader scope, as they focus on developing the tools, materials and models that analysts use to gather and interpret data. Their work can include advanced programming and coding, creating algorithms, predictive modeling and more.
How can you become a data analyst?
At Herzing University, you can start your path to a career in analytics by earning a bachelor’s degree in data analytics. The program can be completed in as few as 32 months and prepares you for a wide range of positions in data analysis and information technology. Preparation for industry certifications from Cisco, Microsoft and CompTIA is included.
Learn More About Our Business Analytics Degree Program
BLS pay estimates calculate the median annual wage for various occupations. Per the BLS the median wage for an occupation is: "The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey." Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024. BLS median wage estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geographic market in which you want to work, and degree level and field, will affect career outcomes, including starting salary and earnings as an experienced employee. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the median salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, particular wage or salary, or other career growth.
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