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Business Analyst

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Primary Secondary Post-16

A Business Analyst works with organisations to help them improve their processes, products, services, and software through data analysis. They act as a bridge between business ideas and technical solutions, ensuring that business needs are understood and met. Typical responsibilities include gathering and analysing data, mapping business processes, identifying areas for improvement, and communicating requirements between stakeholders such as managers, IT professionals, and clients. Business Analysts are found in a variety of sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, and government. Strong problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills are essential in this role.

Business Analyst

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for a Business Analyst in the UK is around £40,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning up to £60,000 or more.

Job Openings

There are currently over 10,000 Business Analyst positions advertised across the UK each year.

Growth Outlook

The demand for Business Analysts is expected to grow by 14 percent in the UK over the next five years, due to increasing reliance on data-driven decision making.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Financial Business Analyst

Focuses on analysing financial data, preparing reports, and advising organisations on budgeting, investment, and financial planning.

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IT Business Analyst

Works closely with technology teams to improve business processes by implementing new software or digital solutions.

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Data Analyst

Collects, processes, and interprets complex data sets to help organisations make informed business decisions.

Gain Relevant Education

Complete Secondary Education

Achieve good GCSEs, particularly in maths and English. Consider A-levels or equivalent qualifications in subjects such as business studies, economics, IT, or maths.

Most employers expect a solid foundation in core subjects, especially maths and English, as these are essential for strong analytical and communication skills. Choosing A-levels or similar qualifications related to business, finance, or IT can provide an early understanding of the field and help with university or apprenticeship applications.

Obtain a Relevant Degree or Apprenticeship

Pursue a university degree in business, economics, IT, or a related subject, or consider a higher apprenticeship in business analysis or digital technology.

A degree is not always necessary, but many Business Analysts have studied subjects like business management or computer science. Alternatively, higher apprenticeship programmes offer practical experience and qualifications while you earn, and are increasingly recognised by employers.

Develop Essential Skills and Experience

Build Analytical and Communication Skills

Develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills through coursework, part-time work, or volunteering.

Business Analysts need to analyse complex problems and communicate findings clearly. Participating in group projects, student societies, or part-time jobs can help you develop these skills. Volunteering for roles where you gather information or solve problems is also valuable.

Gain Work Experience

Seek internships, placements, or entry-level roles such as Junior Business Analyst, Data Analyst, or Project Coordinator.

Work experience is highly valued by employers. Internships and placements provide insights into how businesses operate and the chance to work with stakeholders on real projects. Entry-level roles offer hands-on experience and the opportunity to develop technical and business knowledge.

Enter the Profession and Progress

Apply for Business Analyst Roles

Look for graduate schemes or entry-level Business Analyst positions in a variety of sectors such as finance, retail, or technology.

Employers may advertise Business Analyst roles under various titles, so look out for positions such as Business Consultant, Requirements Analyst, or Process Analyst. Tailor your CV to highlight analytical skills, teamwork, and any relevant work experience.

Obtain Professional Certifications

Pursue industry-recognised certifications like BCS International Diploma in Business Analysis or Agile qualifications to boost your prospects.

Certifications from professional bodies such as BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) or the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) demonstrate your commitment to the profession and can open up more senior positions. Many employers support ongoing learning and professional development.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Business Analyst. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

No career progressions found for

Sample Qualifications

A business analyst closely matches the role of a systems analyst in terms of qualifications because both focus on analysing organisational processes and developing solutions to improve efficiency. They often utilise data and technical knowledge to bridge the gap between business needs and technology systems.

How to become

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

You'll usually need:

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

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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

You'll usually need:

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

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Direct Application

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

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Career tips

To become a business analyst, it might be useful to know about agile project management or other similar methods.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a business analyst from:

You can also find out about government business analysts in the Civil Service on GOV.UK.

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