What is the career path for data analytics?

To get a job as an entry-level analyst (I and II) you need a bachelor's degree in computer science, math, statistics, or another related field. Some also choose to get a more advanced degree in one of these areas or attend training courses for professional development.

• Professional experience

Many companies also prefer candidates to have some level of professional experience before applying for these roles. Internship programs represent the best opportunity to gain an adequate amount of experience. While data science boot camps also represent another valid form of education and experience.

• Certifications

In addition to degrees and training, the analyst role also benefits from certain certifications, including:

• MongoDB. This certification exhibits expansive knowledge and expertise of advanced databases. MongoDB University offers certifications like the MongoDB Certified Developer and MongoDB Certified Database Administrator certifications.

• Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst. This certification properly prepares professionals to process and transform information utilizing Hadoop software to do so. Cloudera provides an opportunity for obtaining this certification.

• Certified Analytics Professional (CAP). This certification gives data analysts advanced knowledge and strategies for turning data into insights.

These certifications are not only helpful to obtaining a position as an analyst (I and II) but also beneficial on the career path of then becoming a senior analyst and a data scientist.

• Essential skills for the field

There are many skills that are needed to become a data analyst and these are crucial for all stages of the career path. Some of the most important skills needed to be a data analyst include:

• Technical skills. Data analysts often work with many different kinds of technology. They also must be versed in programming languages, such as Python and SQL.

• Analytical skills. Data analysts must be able to correctly identify, gather, organize, and manage data. They also must be able to present data in a method that is easy to understand.

• Teamwork skills. Data analysts often work within large or small teams or entire departments in an organization.

• Math skills and abilities. Data analysts use several different types of mathematics to calculate, evaluate, and interpret data.

• Leadership skills. Leadership skills are crucial for data analysts, especially ones that want to work their way up the career path ladder into positions like senior analyst, data scientist, or even Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

• Problem-solving skills. This is a core skill of any analyst position, companies hire data analytics to analyze and interpret data with the overall goal of finding solutions, strategies, and techniques for various issues and problems.

All positions on this career path (analyst, senior analyst, and data scientist) are in high demand in many industries. The tech sector is possibly the most relevant and competitive, however, their demand crosses many industries, including finance, retail, and entertainment.