Data Analyst
Data analyst-statisticians collect numbers and statistics to identify trends, create models and present results. On a day to day basis they may help to design scientific research studies use statistical software to analyse risk, for example in insurance, look for trends and patterns to help organisations and government make policy decisions, investigate market research into consumer habits and feedback, analyse results from clinical trials and much more.
How to become a data analyst
The main routes to get into this role are:
A university course- there are various different degrees you could undertake to get this role.
A college course- there are different diplomas which will support you in gaining this role.
An apprenticeship- you could do a degree apprenticeship for this role.
A graduate training scheme- you can apply to join the Government Statistical Service (GSS) as a trainee through the Civil Service Fast Stream programme. You'll need a good degree or postgraduate qualification.
UNIVERSITY OPTIONS
You will usually need to have 2-3 a levels to gain a relevant degree. You'll usually need a degree or postgraduate degree in:
Statistics
Mathematics
Economics
Operational research
Psychology
You may be able to apply for jobs if you have a degree in a subject that included statistics as part of your course, for example social science or geography.
Courses that give you the chance to spend a year in industry or get work experience through placements, internships or real business projects may give you an advantage when you are looking for graduate jobs.
APPRENTICESHIP OPTIONS
You could start in a junior data analysis role through a data technician advanced apprenticeship.
You could go on to complete a data analysis higher apprenticeship or data scientist degree apprenticeship.
If you want to work in health data analysis you could do a medical statistician degree apprenticeship.
This is dependent on the company and area, you will also usually need to go through an interview process when applying for a degree apprenticeship in data analyst.
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