How To Become a Data Governance Analyst

Considering a career in computer science? Then you may want to include data governance analysis to your list of potential jobs.

This profession plays a key role in establishing and enforcing how a company manages its data. As data becomes more valuable, and more people are concerned with data privacy, the more valuable this role becomes.

In this article, we'll discuss the steps towards becoming a data governance analyst and include an overview of the job plus tips on finding the data governance program that may be best for you.

Steps for Becoming a Data Governance Analyst

Working as a data governance professional requires a few important steps. Students should have a keen interest in the data science space, as well as protecting and regulating information systems.

Here are the steps toward becoming a data governance analyst.

1. Find Out Which Major Is Best for You

There are a number of different majors that encompass the essential knowledge needed for this career. You may start by researching a bachelor's degree in computer science.

Because this degree emphasizes methodology, data integrity, and information technology, you will learn the necessary framework to get started.

2. Find the Right School for Your Major

Choosing a school is highly personal, with many students taking multiple aspects into consideration. Tuition costs is usually one of the top factors that may determine whether or not you choose a school. Search for a college that offers a generous scholarship program, has grants you can apply to, or has an affordable online computer science program.

Because you will likely pursue a degree in technology, most of these programs offer remote learning. If you would rather not commute into a campus, an online computer science degree can help you save time and money by taking online classes.

3. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree

A standard bachelor's degree usually takes approximately four years to complete. During this time you'll take upwards of 120 credits that will teach the necessary information for the data governance careers ahead.

You will learn essential skills like data analytics, data management, and how to become a responsible data steward.

4. Earn a Data Governance Certification

In addition to a relevant degree, pursuing certifications such as certified data management professional (CDMP), certified information systems auditor (CISA), or certified information security manager (CISM) can enhance credentials.

Students can consider reviewing the available certifications on the Data Management Association (DAMA) website for more information.

5. Consider an Advanced Degree

Upon earning your certification, you can then go into an entry-level role. At this stage you may not be managing high-level user information, but you can still get a great understanding of the responsibilities.

When you're ready to move on, you may consider a master's degree in information technology or an MBA. Business administration, while not exactly related to technology, will teach you essential managerial skills to oversee a team and communicate effectively with stakeholders.

What Is a Data Governance Analyst?

A data governance analyst is a professional responsible for ensuring that an organization's data assets are properly managed, maintained, and utilized.

They play a crucial role in implementing data governance policies and procedures to ensure data quality, integrity, and security. Here's a detailed overview of what a data governance analyst does.

Responsibilities of a Data Governance Analyst

As the data owners of the organization, this professional must be able to execute and manage data governance tools and technologies, as well as properly maintain a large data catalog.

This information may be sensitive, and so the most basic data governance principles require professionals to stay compliant with other regulatory entities, such as HIPPA or GDPR.

Skills Required of a Data Governance Analyst

Data governance analytics requires the professional to demonstrate a high-level amount of technical and organizational skills.

On the technical side, proficiency in data management tools, SQL, database management, and data warehousing is essential. They must be comfortable establishing data governance frameworks that will be used throughout the entire organization.

As an organizational leader, they must have excellent communication skills in order to articulate data governance policies and collaborate with various stakeholders.

They must also be great problem solvers, with the ability to address data governance challenges and find effective solutions.

Benefits of Being a Data Governance Analyst

Data governance analysts play a pivotal role in managing and protecting an organization's data assets, ensuring that data is used effectively, responsibly, and in compliance with regulatory requirements. Their work supports overall business objectives by enabling data-driven decision making and maintaining trust in the organization's data.

Other Career Paths for Data Governance Analysts

If you're curious about other opportunities outside of data governance roles, many of your skills are transferable into other paths.

Depending on your years of experience, you may have developed strong management skills that can be used to lead teams in other organizations or departments.

Likewise, your knowledge of information technology can help you transition into other data analysts professions where you are reviewing and compiling information, rather than handling data quality management.

You might also be interested in pursuing the next step up which is data governance manager. In this role, you may oversee a wider range of information including enterprise data, spearhead project management within a department, and execute problem-solving skills on a day-to-day basis

Check out our information technology career guides on this website for other ideas.

FAQs About Data Governance Analysts

While learning if this is the right career for you, you may have other questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about this position.

Is It Difficult To Be a Data Governance Analyst?

While many people may find this role to be extremely rewarding it can be quite challenging to work in data governance manager. This role requires you to take on significant stewardship for company, employee, and customer data.

What Are the Career Prospects for Data Governance Analysts?

Data governance initiatives are a necessary part of business as larger protective regulations are set into motion and governing bodies are protecting consumer information.

Companies want to maintain compliance to avoid hefty fines or even being sued; therefore, protecting information is more important than ever.

What Is the Difference Between Data Management and Data Governance?

While data management and data governance are related, they serve different purposes within an organization.

Data management focuses on the technical and operational processes that ensure data is usable and secure. Data governance creates frameworks and policies that ensure data is managed ethically, compliant with regulations, and aligned with organizational goals.