What is a Data Analyst?
The digital era has brought with it an abundance of data. Data is collected by wearable technology, internet cookies, point of sales devices, surveys, and many other digital technologies. These massive storehouses of information have the potential to provide insights into the health, habits, and attitudes of the population, but skilled data analysts are needed to process, analyze, and interpret them.
Data analysts take raw data and find patterns that help to drive decisions of a business or organization. Data analysts will work to interpret results and develop informative data visualizations and narratives. Data analysis is a crucial part of research in every field. Skilled data analysts are in high demand in sectors such as scientific research, market research, politics, economics, healthcare, and technology.
What Does a Data Analyst Do?
A data analyst can wear many hats within a company or organization, but their main job is to gather and interpret data in a way that is easy to understand and take action on. Some of the day to day tasks of a data analyst:
Collecting and Analyzing Data
Effective data analysis requires high quality data. Data analysts will often design data collection processes with future analyses in mind. Data analysts collect data from various sources such as external market research or internal databases. They then prepare the data by cleaning and organizing it.
Creating Algorithms
Modern data analysis utilizes specialized software programs designed to store and process data. In order to sort through data quickly and efficiently, data scientists create algorithms to sort through data and find patterns and trends.
Making Data-Informed Recommendations for Business Decisions
Once the data has been analyzed, they apply their findings to real situations to inform business strategies. Much of the skill of data analysis is understanding the context in which the data has been collected and context in which findings will be applied. Data analysts who take the time to understand the landscape of their field can become irreplaceable members of a team.
Creating Data Visualizations to Present your Findings
Data analysts create visualizations of data using graphs, charts, and other visual aids to make complex data findings more accessible for stakeholders. Data visualization requires both technical and creative ability.
Use Machine Learning to Make Predictions
Predictive modeling can help businesses stay ahead of trends through using machine learning.
Steps to Becoming a Data Analyst:
Here are the steps you should take if you’re interested in earning a degree in data analytics.
Step 1: Earn a Degree
Most data analyst or data science jobs will require at least a bachelor’s degree, though some will require a master’s degree. Palm Beach Atlantic University offers a combined BS to MS degree in Business Data Analytics that can help you get a bachelor’s and master’s degree in only five years.
Step 2: Build Your Technical Skill Set
Data analysts will benefit greatly from training in logic, linear algebra, and statistics. Data analysis also requires a strong technical background in coding and visualization tools. Take some time to learn programs such as Python, R, SQL, and Tableau.
Step 3: Earn Certifications
A great way to boost your resume is by completing relevant certifications to add to your qualifications. Consider earning certifications through Microsoft or completing online data analytics bootcamps.
Step 4: Gain Experience
Getting experience in real-world settings is a crucial step to becoming a data analyst. Internships, entry level jobs, or even volunteering at a local organization are all great ways to put your technical skills into practice.
PBA’s Career Development office supports students with finding opportunities in their field. They offer resume support, career coaching, and securing internships to help students gain valuable experience.
Step 5: Create a Portfolio
Professional portfolios are a great way to showcase your talent in a real and tangible way to employers. Create a portfolio with any predictive models you’ve created, data visualizations you’ve made, or even data that you’ve cleaned. Explore online sites that are commonly used to display technical portfolios.
Step 6: Network & Apply
Finding your dream job can take some time, so networking with others in your industry can be an invaluable way to make connections and learn about opportunities. Joining a professional organization, such as the Association of Data Scientists, can help you meet like-minded people in the field.
Skills Needed in Data Analytics
- Analytical Skills
- Problem-Solving
- Coding and Programming
- Data Visualization
- Collaboration
- Machine Learning and AI
Career Outlook for Data Analytics
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, data science jobs are expected to grow by 35% over the next decade, a rate that is much faster than average. The field of data science is a well-paying and lucrative industry and now is a great time to start earning these important qualifications.