Data analyst
Collect and analyse data to predict future trends and patterns.
About the job
Salary
Source: LMI for All
Weekly
£680
Average
Monthly
£2,946
Average
Yearly
£35,360
Average
16,000
people are currently employed
High growth
700 more jobs in 5 years
These figures refer to this job and similar ones with comparable skills and qualifications. They only apply to Scotland. Source: Oxford Economics
What it's like
You would collect numerical information to identify trends and patterns. You’d create models to predict what might happen in the future.
You’d explain your findings using graphs, charts, diagrams, tables and infographics.
Your work could be used in a number of areas, including:
local and national government
market research (public sector or government)
business, finance and insurance
NHS management
crime analysis and forensics
education
In the private sector, you would:
look for trends and patterns to help companies make business decisions
analyse market research and trends in consumer feedback
analyse opinion polls
predict demand for services or goods
check quality control standards in areas such as drug and food testing
In the public sector you could work for government agencies, research councils and universities.
If you work for the government you could collect, analyse and publish information on:
population trends
the economy
the labour market
transport
crime
The information you produce would be used to advise government ministers and inform the press and the wider population.
Hours
Environment
Travel
Explore more information about this job
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- understanding
- analysing
- sorting
- filtering
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- working with technology
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore the sections shown for more information about getting into this career.
You might have qualifications which are not shown here but will allow you access to a course. You can compare your qualifications by looking at their SCQF Level. For more information about this, check out the SCQF website.
Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Mathematics
Statistics
Applications of Mathematics
You would usually require a degree (SCQF level 9/10) in a subject such as statistics, mathematics or a related subject involving maths, such as economics or informatics.
Most undergraduate courses ask for at least four Higher (SCQF level 6) passes with a B although this varies slightly depending on the university and could be as high as AABB (first sitting) for some courses. You can also gain advanced entry to second year with Advanced Highers (SCQF level 7) or a relevant Higher National Certificate (SCFQ level 7) or Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8).
Some employers also ask that you have postgraduate qualifications such as a Master of Science (MSc) (SCQF level 11) or a doctoral degree (SCQF level 12) in a relevant subject.
Some universities offer an Integrated Masters (SCQF level 11) combining a degree and masters course over five years. Entry is the same as for a degree.
The Government Statistical Service (GSS) also takes on trainee statistics graduates through the Civil Service fast stream programme.
If you’re 16 or older, a Modern Apprenticeship will let you work and earn while you study for a qualification. After you qualify, you'd be able to study further or move into a role where you can build experience. Check out these options:
You could also earn a degree level qualification through a Graduate Apprenticeship. Check out this one in Data Science.
These apprenticeships may allow accelerated entry to the second or third year of some degree courses or, combined with enough related experience and the higher level apprenticeship qualifications, you may be able to apply to some post-graduate courses directly.
An understanding of economic and business practices is useful.
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