Business analyst

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

University

Any degree that teaches analytical skills can be useful for this role.

Some employers might prefer you to have a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject such as:

• business information systems
• business management
• computing and systems development
• computer science

Experience during your degree

You may have an advantage if your degree course lets you get some business experience.

This could be through:

• internships
• work placements
• a year in industry

It may also be useful to get experience of managing projects and analysing data.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could gain some of the skills and knowledge needed for this role through an apprenticeship.

For example, you could do the Business Analyst Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship or the Project Manager Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You can apply directly for jobs if you've got several years' experience in project management, consulting or IT.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:

• business management skills
• analytical thinking skills
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to use your initiative
• customer service skills
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• persistence and determination
• knowledge of English language
• knowledge of human resources and employment law
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• excellent written communication skills
• maths skills
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Business analysts investigate situations and problems to find improvements for businesses.

You could:

• speak to managers to learn what their business needs are
• write down what the business does and how
• analyse your findings to suggest changes and improvements
• explain the possible effects of changes, such as the costs, benefits and risks
• organise testing and quality checks
• support staff to make changes

Possible green job

This job could help the environment.

For a business analyst to be a green job, you could:

• work for an environmentally friendly company
• ensure that the business follows green policies and practices
• suggest solutions which take into account the environmental impact

Find out more about green careers

Location : You could work in an office or at a client's business.

Salary:

Starter : £23,000
Experienced : £55,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings occasionally

Career Path:

With experience, you could:

• become a business project manager
• work as a consultant
• work in different industries
• set up your own company
• work freelance