How to become a business analyst | edX

How to become a business analystLearn the necessary steps to become a business analyst. Explore the required skills, education, and certifications needed to pursue a career in business analysis.Browse online business analysis programs and coursesDo you have an analytical mind and want to put it to use in the business world? Pursuing a career as a business analyst may be the next step. Discover potential salaries and learn how to become a business analyst.What does a business analyst do?A business analyst works with corporations in just about every industry, from healthcare to retail and beyond. In this role, your primary goal is to use data to improve business efficiency. Business analysts typically:Review, evaluate, and improve business processesAnticipate and mitigate business risksAssess and modernize IT systemsCreate financial models to drive business decisionsForecast budgets and allocate fundsCommunicate insights and plans to all stakeholdersAnalyze datasets and compile visualizationsAccording to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), business management analysts earned a median salary of $99,410 per year in 2023.Steps to become a business analystA career as a business analyst can allow you to help corporations reach their goals. If you're wondering how to become a business analyst, here are the recommended degrees, certifications, and experiences you will want to obtain.Step 1: Earn a business degreeMany businesses give priority to candidates with a business-related bachelor's or master's degree. Consider earning your degree in business administration. Quantitative degrees in finance, economics, data science, or information systems can also be helpful in this role. In choosing a major, make sure it offers courses in:Principles of accountingBusiness statisticsInformation systems managementOperations managementApplied statistical modelsThese courses can prepare you to analyze datasets, create financial models, and solve the problems you may face as a business analyst.Step 2: Opt for a business analytics certificateA business analytics or data analytics certificate is not generally required to become a full-time business analyst. However, such a certificate can enhance your skills and offer specific knowledge in data acquisition and processing. A few options include:Project Management Institute Professional in Business AnalysisInternational Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Entry Certificate in Business AnalysisIIBA Certified Business Analysis ProfessionalKeep in mind that some of these certificates require you to have a certain amount of work experience prior to enrolling. Because these programs are more skills-oriented than a degree program, employers know that you'll be equipped to adapt to current market demands.Additionally, some colleges and universities offer their own business analytics certificates that you can earn alongside or after your degree.Step 3: Get an internshipAchieving success in business analytics requires gaining relevant experience. One of the best ways to do this is to secure an internship to gain hands-on experience in the following:Researching and reporting on industry trendsIdentifying patterns in large datasetsHelping the team with strategic business planningEvaluating new business processesThis type of experiential knowledge can give your résumé a competitive advantage in the job market and allow you to build a portfolio of real-world work that proves you can get the job done.Get started on edXWhether you're pursuing a bachelor's or master's in business analytics, explore edX opportunities and sign up for a course or program to start your journey toward success today.Stand out in your fieldUse the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.Learn at your own paceOn your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.Earn a valuable credentialShowcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.Explore all online business analysis programs and courses Frequently asked questionsWhat is a business analyst?A business analyst is a professional who uses data analysis and statistical modeling to review, evaluate, and improve business processes.How much does a business analyst make a year?BLS data indicates that the median salary for a business management analyst in 2023 was $99,410 per year.How long does it take to become a business analyst?Most entry-level roles require you to hold a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Bachelor's programs typically take at least four years to complete. If you pursue a master’s, depending on whether you attend school full- or part-time, that may add one to five years to your timeline.