Which Degrees Do I Need to Become a Data Analyst?

Does one need a degree to work as a data analyst or become one? Which one is it, if any? Read more to discover the solutions to these issues, along with other insights.

Getting the necessary skills and certifications is frequently the first step in landing a high-demand career as a data analyst. For many, a degree will suffice. We’ll talk about if you really need a degree to work as a data analyst, which degree to pursue, and how a secondary level may help you improve your career in this post.

Data analytics is rapidly being employed in a variety of areas, including retail, education, administration, and energy, to mention a few. As a result, any industry-specific information you possess can assist you in standing out to potential employers. You have crucial information, for instance, if you spent many years working for an insurance firm or if you spent a year working at a department store.

Is a Degree required to become a Data Analyst?

The majority of entry-level data analyst jobs, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, call for a bachelor’s degree. You may develop your data analysis skills without a degree and perhaps get employment. On the other hand, obtaining one offers a planned approach to skill development and networking with industry leaders. If you have a degree rather than none, you might have additional employment options.

What should I expertise in if I want to be a data analyst?

A bachelor’s degree in data analytics is not something that all universities/colleges offer. So, if you want to work and grow your career as a data analyst, what should you major in? Your university probably offers comparable alternative majors even if it doesn’t offer this specific degree.

Majors for data analysts to consider

Here are a few degree programs that commonly offer data analysis abilities. These majors can be a good fit for you if you want to work as a data analyst.

Data Science

As the need for data professionals grows, a growing number of colleges are providing graduate degrees in data science. You’ll most likely take classes in computer engineering, economics, and math as part of this degree program, or you have an option to do the best online data analytics courses from Great Learning, which will make you an expert in the field. You can specialize in subjects like mathematics, accounting, entrepreneurship, or health care in certain programs.

Computer science

Several computer engineering schools emphasize statistical and analytical abilities, making them an excellent fit for prospective data analysts. This is also a commonly available degree. Depending on the curriculum, you might study computer languages, artificial intelligence principles, and algorithm design that you can utilize in your future employment.

Applied mathematics or statistics

Conventional mathematics degrees often prepare students for academic professions. Courses in practical applied mathematics concentrate on real-world applications, like helping businesses make data-driven decisions. Other crucial skills, like scripting languages or analytical software tools, may be included in the curriculum.

Finance/economics

Consider acquiring an accounting or economics degree if you believe you could be willing to work as a financial and business analyst. Much of these degree courses involve a statistics and analysis curriculum, and some even include business analytics majors.

Psychology

Although it may not appear so at first look, psychologists frequently utilize data to determine, analyze, or even behave in a certain way. You may be exposed to math and standard statistical coursework as part of a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

Management information systems (MIS)

With some of this degree, you may learn about databases and how they function from the inside out. As a data analyst, this may be beneficial. Data model, data processing, and organizational theory are common subjects in MIS education. You can specialize in data analytics, business analytics, or system integration with some programs.

Memorize equations, mathematics, and basic mathematical classes, as well as certain computer science courses that cover databases and statistics software, no matter what degree you pursue. If you already know what field you want to work in, taking some industry-specific training can assist you.

Why do people think a degree is required?

A widespread assumption is that if you want to work as a data analyst, you need a formal degree. This erroneous perception arises from a common conflation of data analytics and data science, two closely related but separate topics that are sometimes presented similarly.

Professional degrees or the best online analytics courses are frequently required for data science professions (which include data analytics as well as a variety of other specific skills). Because data science and data analytics are frequently conflated, individuals mistakenly assume that both require a degree. In reality, for entry-level data analytics jobs, good online data science certification courses combined with the correct mindset are generally enough. Employers are generally willing to let you learn on the job if you have the necessary skills and expertise.

Is it worthwhile to get a master’s degree in data analytics?

While a bachelor’s degree is the most frequent entry-level credential, some employers prefer applicants who have a master’s degree in data analytics or a related discipline. According to a 2017 IBM research, 6% of data analyst job descriptions need a master’s or doctorate degree. For analytics managers, the figure rises to 11%, and for data professionals and expert analysts, it rises to 39%.

Master’s-level degrees are often associated with higher income. Employees with a master’s degree make a median weekly wage of $1,497 in the United States, compared to $1,248 for someone with a bachelor’s degree. This discrepancy equates to an extra $12,948 every year.

Begin your career as a Data Analyst

No matter where you are on your study path, take the next step toward a job in data analysis.
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Conclusion

We’ve looked at the credentials you’ll want to become a data analyst and flourish in your first data position (and beyond!) in this piece. Hopefully, you now have a better sense of whether or not a job as a data analyst is suited for you or whether you can go for a Great Learning online data science certification course. We’ve decided that (at least initially) a passion for the subject and a desire to learn are more vital than a technical certification.

We’ve also demonstrated that, contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a college diploma to work in data analytics. A recognized course of study is sufficient proof that you possess the necessary technical abilities.

Which Degrees Do I Need to Become a Data Analyst?

Is a Degree required to become a Data Analyst?