Are you wondering how to become a business intelligence analyst? If you’re interested in data science, and you have a knack for using data to solve problems, this could be the ideal career path for you. Here’s an overview of the skills, qualifications and academic credentials you’re likely to need for getting started with a career as a business intelligence analyst.

Academic and Other Credentials Needed for Becoming a Business Intelligence Analyst

There is no one-size-fits-all description of qualifications for becoming a business intelligence analyst. Since each business has different needs, each BIA job description will vary depending on the situation. The following list provides an overview of credentials employers often prioritize when recruiting business intelligence analysts:

• An undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as computer science, business, IT, statistics or mathematics; some employers also prefer candidates who hold M.B.A. degrees
• Experience with SQL programming
• Experience using dedicated software such as Oracle, Power BI by Microsoft, Tableau or Cognos by IBM
• Experience with Microsoft Office software including Excel, Access and Word
• Experience with data modeling
• Experience with database tuning and / or database maintenance
• 2+ years worth of relevant work experience

Personal Qualifications Needed for Becoming a Business Intelligence Analyst

• The technical ability to set up systems for capturing, retrieving and presenting useful data
• The ability to analyze data and determine which data sets are relevant for achieving a company’s goals
• The ability to translate the data into actionable advice that can be communicated to customers or others on the team depending on the organization’s objectives

This role requires strong technical, communication, problem solving, time management and interpersonal skills. If your skill set is lacking any of these essentials, a career as a business intelligence analyst may not be ideal for you.

Which Industries Utilize Business Intelligence Analysts?

The healthcare industry employs significant numbers of business intelligence analysts. Other industries that need analysts’ expertise include the technology, software, manufacturing, media, banking, and financial industries.

Which Location Is Best for Finding a Job as a Business Intelligence Analyst?

California, Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Florida, New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Texas are the current hotspots for companies who hire business intelligence analysts. There are relevant job opportunities to be found in California communities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, Mountain View, Carlsbad and Irving. In Texas, job opportunities exist in the cities of Houston and San Antonio. Other cities where business intelligence analysts frequently find work include New York City, Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, Seattle, Minneapolis and Tallahassee. You may need to consider relocating if you’re seeking employment as a business intelligence analyst and do not already live in one of these areas.

Where to Find More Information About Becoming a Business Intelligence Analyst

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics maintains a helpful guide on the topic of becoming a business management analyst. Business intelligence author Abe Selig has posted an informative article about What employers look for in a BI analyst at the Plotting Success website.

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We hope you find this information empowering as you decide whether an analyst job is a good fit for your unique skill set. Now that you know more about the typical BIA job requirements, you’re better equipped to plan out a career path and prepare to become a business intelligence analyst if you wish.