How to become a data analyst

What will I do if I secure a data analyst job in the UK?

If you choose to pursue a career as a data analyst, you will find yourself on a path where you transform messy information into useful knowledge. This helps companies make smart choices. Your job will be to gather information from different places, make sure it is correct and use special tools to find important facts and patterns.

After this, you will make easy-to-understand diagrams and reports to show what you have discovered. You will work with teams to share your ideas and help solve real problems that businesses face. Learning new things and keeping up with the latest tools is very important in this job. A data analyst job is not only interesting, but it also lets you make a big impact on the businesses you work with.

These are some of the day-to-day tasks that you will be performing:

• Collecting big data which includes gathering information from different sources.
• Data cleaning which involves making sure that the information is accurate and free from errors.
• Use data analysis tools to analyse data, and discover patterns and important facts.
• Create visuals such as charts to show what you have found.
• Write reports and explain your discoveries in a clear way.
• Assist businesses in making better choices and solving business-related problems.
• Collaborate with teams and share your data-based ideas.
• Keep learning and stay up to date on the latest tools and technologies.
• Help businesses and organisations make smarter decisions for success.

What qualifications do I need to start a data analyst career?

Having a degree certainly makes it easier to secure a data analyst job, as it provides a solid educational foundation in relevant fields like maths, statistics or computer science. However, it is essential to note that it is also possible to enter the field as an entry-level data analyst by completing data analysis courses and gaining practical skills. Such courses are offered online as well as offline.

These courses are designed to help you learn data analysis, allowing you to possess the necessary skills for the job. This means you can become a data analyst without a degree. The key is to demonstrate your proficiency and dedication through practical experience and possibly certifications in data analysis. So, whether you have a degree or not, the field of data analysis offers multiple pathways for those who are passionate about working with data.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which it is possible to become a data analyst.

Getting a degree at university

Some of the courses that will allow you to get into the data analysis profession include:

• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Economics
• Psychology
• Operational research

The entry requirements include:

• 2-3 A levels, including Maths
• A degree for postgraduate studies

Doing a T level course at college

Undertaking a T level course can be a valuable stepping stone toward a data analysis job. It can offer a practical and focused educational path. T Level courses are designed to provide specialised training and education. It will enable you to receive targeted instructions and hands-on experience directly related to the skills and knowledge you need to secure a job as a data analyst.

The entry requirements include:

• Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grades 9-4
• Proficiency in Maths and English

Through an apprenticeship program

An apprenticeship is a practical and effective pathway to start a career in data analysis. It offers work experience as well as formal education.

The entry requirements include:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4, including Maths and English for an advanced apprenticeship.
• Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grades 9-4 for a degree level apprenticeship.

What data analysis skills do I need to become an entry-level data analyst?

Becoming an entry-level data analyst in the UK requires you to have a diverse skill set. Having the right combination of skills can be your ticket to a rewarding career in a competitive industry. Data analysis plays a crucial role in today’s data-driven world. Many companies rely on data to make informed business decisions.

To excel in this role, it is essential to possess a specific skill set that allows you to navigate complex data, discover valuable insights and effectively communicate your findings. As the field is highly competitive, having the right data analytics skills becomes paramount in setting you apart.

These are some of the main data analyst skills you need: 

• Proficiency in data analysis techniques and tools to derive insights from large data sets.
• A solid foundation in mathematics and statistics for accurate data interpretation.
• The ability to use specialised tools that help create clear and informative data visualisations.
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python for data manipulation and analysis.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication skills
• A keen eye for detail to ensure data accuracy and quality.
• The capacity to adapt to evolving data analysis techniques and technologies.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with colleagues from various disciplines.

What is the average salary in the field of data analytics?

In the UK, the salary of a data analyst can vary depending on factors such as location, work experience and the industry in which they are employed. On average, an entry-level analyst can expect to make around £23,000 per year. However, in cities like London and other high-demand areas, the figure can be notably higher.

With years of experience in the field, they can see their salary rise significantly. Experienced data analysts earn about £62,000 per year. Those with advanced degrees or specialised skills in fields like data science and machine learning may earn higher salaries.

The demand for skilled data analysts in the UK continues to grow and the data analyst career path is quite promising.

Possible career progression of a data analyst in the UK

The demand for data analysts is growing and a career in this field can offer an exciting and rewarding journey with various opportunities for growth. The initial stages often involve entry-level positions, but as you gain work experience and expertise, your career can advance to more senior and specialised roles.

As a senior data analyst, you can take on more complex data analysis tasks, work with larger data sets and often lead small teams. You can specialise in specific industries or areas such as healthcare or financial data analysis.

With additional skills and work experience, you can become a data scientist and focus on advanced analytics, machine learning and predictive modelling. This will help you uncover deeper insights and solve complex business problems.

As you progress in your career, you will have the opportunity to step into managerial positions. You can become a data analytics manager and manage data-related operations within a company. Experienced data professionals often have the option to work as independent consultants or freelancers. These roles will allow you to take on various projects across different industries and potentially earn a higher income.

What will be my working hours if I start a career as a data analyst?

The working hours of data analysts can vary depending on the industry, company or specific job requirements. In many cases, data analysts work regular full-time hours, typically around 40 hours per week. They have a standard 9-5 schedule. However, there can be variations, especially in industries where data analysis is crucial for decision-making or requires real-time monitoring.

In sectors such as finance, healthcare and marketing, data analysts may encounter situations where they need to work longer hours or irregular shifts. For example, financial markets operate outside regular office hours, which can demand data analysts to work during evenings and weekends to analyse data. In healthcare, patient data needs to be monitored round the clock, requiring data analysts to be available for shifts that include nights and weekends.

Additionally, with the increasing flexibility of remote work and flexible schedules, many data analysts have the opportunity to work from home. They can also choose their hours as long as they meet project deadlines and objectives.

In essence, the working hours of data analysts can be influenced by the industry, company and specific demands of the role.

What is the work environment like for data analysts?

The working environment of data analysts can vary significantly. It depends on their specific role, the company they work for and the industry they work in. Data analysts are in high demand in today’s data-driven world and they can be found in diverse settings. They can work from corporate offices or have remote work setups.

In corporate settings, data analysts typically work in office environments. These offices are equipped with modern technology and software tools that enable analysts to access and analyse data efficiently. Collaboration is common in such environments.

On the other hand, many data-related tasks can be performed remotely, making it increasingly common for data analysts to work from home or other locations outside of a traditional office. This flexibility allows professionals to strike a balance between work and professional life. It is advantageous for those who prefer a more independent work setup.

Regardless of the setting, data analysts often use specialised software and statistical tools to manipulate and analyse data. Their work environment is characterised by a strong emphasis on data security and compliance.

Is it possible to become a data analyst with no experience?

Many people wonder if they can step into the world of data analysis with no experience. The answer to that is, yes, it is possible. You don’t need a fancy resume to start. With dedication and learning, you can unlock doors to this exciting career path. If you are looking to become a data analyst with no experience, here’s how you can get started in the field of analysis.

• Learn the basics through online courses, books and tutorials.
• Focus on understanding data, spreadsheets and basic statistics.
• Work on personal projects and use free data sets available to analyse data.
• Familiarise yourself with common data analysis tools like Excel and Google Sheets.
• Familiarise yourself with specialised software like Python.
• Build a portfolio to showcase your projects and skills.
• Connect with people in the field of data analysis. Attend meetups, conferences or online forums.
• Apply for entry-level data analyst jobs.
• Practice for job interviews and be ready to discuss your projects and demonstrate your analytical skills.
• Keep learning and improving your skills and stay up to date with new technologies.
• Consider internships and volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience.
• Be persistent and don’t get discouraged if you face rejection.