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Business Analyst

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Primary Secondary Post-16

A Business Analyst is responsible for identifying business needs and finding technical solutions to business problems. They work closely with stakeholders to gather requirements, analyse processes, and recommend improvements to help organisations achieve their goals. Typical duties include conducting research, preparing reports, mapping out workflows, and facilitating communication between IT and business teams. Business Analysts are essential in helping companies become more efficient and competitive, and they often work in sectors such as finance, retail, healthcare, and technology.

Business Analyst

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for a Business Analyst in the UK is around £42,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting from £28,000 and experienced professionals earning up to £65,000.

Job Opportunities

There are over 30,000 advertised Business Analyst positions across the UK each year, according to job market data.

Job Growth

The demand for Business Analysts is expected to grow by 14 percent between 2022 and 2032, making it a fast-growing field.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Data Analyst

Focuses on collecting, organising, and interpreting data to help businesses make informed decisions.

Process Improvement Analyst

Works on identifying and implementing ways to make business processes more efficient and effective.

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IT Business Analyst

Specialises in analysing and improving business processes through the use of technology and software solutions.

Build a Strong Educational Foundation

Achieve Good GCSEs and A-Levels

Focus on subjects like Maths, Business Studies, Economics, or IT to build analytical and problem-solving skills.

Business Analysts typically need a strong understanding of numbers and business concepts. Taking relevant GCSEs and progressing to A-Levels or equivalent qualifications in subjects like Maths, Business Studies, Economics, or Computer Science will provide a solid base for further study. These subjects help you develop analytical thinking and communication skills, both of which are vital for this career.

Gain a University Degree

Study for a degree in Business, IT, Economics, or a related field to deepen your knowledge.

Most employers look for candidates with a degree, often in Business Studies, Management, IT, Economics, or a related discipline. Courses usually last three to four years and cover subjects such as business analysis, data management, and project management. Some universities offer placement years or work experience opportunities, which are highly valued by employers.

Develop Practical Skills and Experience

Learn Key Business Analysis Tools

Familiarise yourself with tools and software like Excel, SQL, and business intelligence platforms.

Business Analysts use various tools to analyse data and create reports. Learning how to use Excel for data analysis, SQL for managing databases, and business intelligence platforms such as Power BI or Tableau can give you a competitive edge. Online tutorials and training courses are widely available for these tools.

Get Work Experience or an Internship

Apply for internships, placements, or entry-level jobs in business or IT settings.

Practical experience is highly valued. Look for internships, summer placements, or part-time jobs in business or IT departments. Even roles like office assistant or data entry can help you develop relevant skills and understand how businesses operate. Some companies offer structured graduate schemes that include business analysis training.

Start Your Career and Progress

Apply for Business Analyst Positions

Look for graduate or junior Business Analyst roles in various industries, such as finance, retail, or technology.

Entry-level Business Analyst positions are available in a wide range of sectors. Tailor your CV to highlight your analytical skills, relevant education, and any work experience. Be prepared to discuss how you approach problem-solving and communicate with different stakeholders. Many large organisations offer graduate schemes that can help you develop your career further.

Continue Professional Development

Consider professional certifications and ongoing training to advance your career.

As you gain experience, you might choose to pursue professional qualifications such as the BCS Foundation Certificate in Business Analysis or certifications from the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). Continuous learning keeps your skills up to date and can help you move into senior roles, such as Senior Business Analyst, Project Manager, or Consultant.

🎯 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

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Sample Qualifications

A Business Analyst and a Systems Analyst both focus on analysing organisational processes and systems to improve efficiency and functionality. They often work together to identify data-driven solutions and recommend technology implementations, making their roles closely aligned in terms of qualifications and skill sets.

How to become

You could get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University

You could do a degree in a relevant subject like:

  • computer science
  • information management systems
  • business information systems
  • maths and operational research

Some universities offer a degree in Information Technology Management for Business. This degree is Tech Industry Gold accredited.

Postgraduate courses

If you have a degree that's not in an IT or computer subject, you could complete a postgraduate course.

You should choose one which focuses on business and computer skills.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

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Apprenticeship

You could do either an information systems business analyst higher apprenticeship or a digital and technology solutions 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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Work

You could start with any job in IT or business then build up your experience and qualifications while working.

You could train online or attend short intensive courses with IT training organisations. You'll need some computer and business skills.

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Professional and industry bodies

You may find it helpful to get a business analysis certification to show your skills and expertise once you're working.

Further information

You can find out more about working and training in computing from The Chartered Institute for IT and techskills.

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