Business systems analysts, also called computer systems analysts, are professionals that combine knowledge of computer systems and business principles to help their companies prosper. Most employers seek candidates with bachelor's degrees in computer science or a related field. Read on to learn about the education necessary to become a business systems analyst.
Educational Requirements
The job requirements for business systems analysts aren't set in stone, but the BLS reports that most business systems analyst and computer systems analyst positions require a bachelor's degree in computer science, management information systems or information science. The BLS also states that employers are starting to look for candidates that hold Master of Business Administration degrees with a specialization in information systems.
For a prospective business systems analyst, expertise in business is just as important as computer knowledge. Since business systems analysts must be proficient in both information technology and business, the ideal business systems analyst is a well-rounded individual with a broad knowledge base.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts about this Occupation</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Training</td><td>Analysts generally start out working under a more experienced analyst in order to learn more about the job.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Key Skills</td><td>Knowledge of information technology, interpersonal communication skills, analytical thinking, attention to detail, organizational skills</td></tr>
<tr><td>Work Environment</td><td>Systems analysts work in an office, and can work long hours. In 2016, about 25% of all analysts worked more than 40 hours per week. Some travel may be required.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Similar Occupations</td><td>Computer and Information Research Scientists, Computer and Information Systems Managers, Computer Network Architects, Business Requirements Analyst, Service Request Analyst</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---TheRoleOfABusinessSystemsAnalyst">The Role of a Business Systems Analyst</h3><p>A business systems analyst is the liaison between the business and technical sides of a company. The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) considers business systems analysts to play a key role in improving an organization (<i>www.iiba.org</i>).
</p><h3 id="section---JobProspectsForBusinessSystemsAnalysts">Job Prospects for Business Systems Analysts</h3><p>A report from <i>PayScale.com</i> in 2023 stated that business systems analysts had a median salary of $71,619, and this was based on the data reported by 3,823 participants in the survey. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) stated that due to increased use of computers and the Internet in business, employment for computer systems analysts would grow by 9% from 2021-2031 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>).</p>
