Each day, huge amounts of data are being created. This has led to a corresponding need for those with specialized training to find methods to make sense of it all so that patterns and insights can be found amid the numbers. More than ever, Data Analysts are in demand in industries across the US.

In 2021, Glassdoor named data science as the second-most popular job in America. If you are considering a career in data analytics, it’s important to have the proper qualifications and skill-set to get the attention of employers. This article will explore what kind of training a Data Analyst needs, as well as which degrees are appropriate not just to secure a job in this field, but to advance professionally as a Data Analyst.

What College Majors are Most Applicable to Data Analytics?

A bachelor’s degree in data analytics isn’t offered at all universities. For those who are interested in launching a career as a Data Analyst, the following majors can provide relevant training:

  • Computer Science: Those pursuing this commonly available major receive training in statistical and analytical skills. Some programs offer courses in programming, algorithm design, and artificial intelligence as part of a computer science major, all of which can be applied to the field of data analytics.
  • Statistics/Applied Mathematics: Unlike general degrees in mathematics that tend to prepare students for academic careers, focusing on statistics or applied mathematics offers learners real-world training, which can be used in the business sector for making data-driven decisions. Some curricula even have classes that teach students programming or statistical software packages.
  • Data Science: This major is growing in popularity, as the need for data professionals continues to increase. Students pursuing a degree in data science typically study statistics, mathematics, and computer science. The skills learned in this major have direct applications for those hoping to specialize in a field such as healthcare, finance, economics, or business.
  • Psychology: Although this doesn’t at first seem to be an obvious major for someone interested in data analytics, those with a degree in psychology gain a wide range of skills that have applications in many industries. Trained Psychologists work with data to explain and predict patterns in human behavior. Most colleges and universities that offer this major require students to take math and statistics classes, which are helpful for a career in data analysis.
  • Management Information Systems: This degree teaches learners how databases function. Coursework often includes topics like data management, business theory, and database design. Programs offering this track sometimes allow students to focus specifically on data management, business intelligence, or even data analytics.
  • Economics/Finance: For those looking to become Business Analysts or Financial Analysts, a degree in finance or economics is a logical choice. Classes typically cover analysis, statistics, and even business analytics.

Regardless of the major you select, most employers seek out candidates who have a strong background in mathematics for entry-level data analytics positions.

Is Graduate Study Necessary for a Career in Data Analytics?

For entry-level data analytic jobs, a bachelor’s degree is a common qualification. However, some businesses or companies prefer candidates who have a master’s or even doctorate degree in data analytics or one of the fields directly related to it, such as computer science or math. Like most vocations, having a higher-level degree corresponds to higher pay.

While it is not a requirement to have an undergraduate or even graduate degree in a field related to data analytics in order to pursue a career as a Data Analyst, the industry-specific training these degrees provide can help gain the attention of employers and scouts.

Non-Academic Requirements for Those Interested in Becoming Data Analysts

In addition to college, university, or certificate coursework, which can provide the necessary training for aspiring Data Analysts, most employers also value soft skills that don’t necessarily come from academia. These transferable skills are becoming an increasingly popular consideration for employers, as they hope to find well-rounded applicants whose knowledge and training extend beyond the classroom. Here are a few soft skills employers seek out in Data Analysts:

  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Optimistic outlook
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Work ethic
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Creativity

The bottom line is that there is no path set in stone that must be followed to be guaranteed a job as a Data Analyst. Those who can demonstrate their technical and soft skills to potential employers have the best shot at landing an entry-level job, regardless of their academic background. However, for candidates hoping to climb the professional ladder and be hired for senior-level data analytic roles, educational training at a college, university, or school such as Noble Desktop opens many professional doors.

Hands-On Data Analytics Classes

Noble Desktop’s data analytics classes provide students with timely and relevant training about how to manage, analyze, and visualize data. These courses are offered in New York City, as well as in the live online format, in topics like Python, Excel, and SQL, and can help you break into a career in data analytics.

In addition, a variety of analytics classes are currently available from top providers. More than 130 live online data analytics courses are listed, in topics like FinTech, Excel for Business, and Tableau, among others. Courses range from three hours to six months and cost from $219 to $27,500.

Those who are committed to learning in an intensive educational environment may also consider enrolling in a data analytics or data science bootcamp. More than 90 bootcamp options are available for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students looking to master skills and topics like data analytics, data visualization, data science, and Python, among others. These rigorous courses are taught by industry experts and provide timely, small-class instruction.

Are you looking for a data analytics class nearby? If so, Noble’s Data Analytics Classes Near Me tool provides an easy way to locate and browse approximately 400 data analytics classes currently offered in in-person and live online formats. This convenient tool makes it easy to find the class that’s a match for your professional goals and budget. Course lengths vary from three hours to 36 weeks and cost $119-$27,500.