How to Become a Computer Systems Analyst in 2024
Computer systems analysts typically require a bachelor’s degree to enter the profession. Studying the field of computer science or information systems is expected but not always needed. Some companies hire candidates with a business or liberal arts degree and related skills.
Educate
Computer systems analysts typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field, such as mathematics.
Since these analysts deal with the business side of an organization, taking a business course or majoring in management information systems may be helpful.
Some employers hire candidates with a liberal arts degree and acquire programming or technical expertise elsewhere.
Some employers prefer applicants with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) with a concentration in information systems. A master’s degree in computer science may be more appropriate for technically complex jobs.
Systems analysts may take continuing education courses throughout their careers to keep up with new technologies. Technological advancements are common in computing, and constant research is required to remain competitive.
Systems analysts must also understand the industry they work in. For example, an analyst working in a hospital might need a thorough understanding of health care plans and programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, while an analyst working in a bank might need to understand finance.
Having industry-specific knowledge helps systems analysts communicate with managers to determine the role of information technology (IT) systems in an organization.
How to Become a Web Developer or Digital Designer
How to Become a Computer and Information Systems Manager
Progress
With experience, a systems analyst may be promoted to project manager and lead a team of analysts. Some end up being IT executives or CTOs. For more information, see Profiles for Computer and Information Systems Administrators.
Important qualities
Skills of analysis. Analysts must interpret complex information from various sources and decide the best way to proceed with a project. They also have to figure out how the change affects the project.
Business skills. Analysts design and implement computers or upgrade existing systems to meet an organization’s business goals. Analysts must thoroughly understand their organization’s business goals to meet their needs.
Communication skills. Analysts act as liaisons between management and IT and must explain complex issues in a way both parties can understand.
Creativity. Because analysts are tasked with finding innovative solutions to computer problems, they must be resourceful and apply ingenuity in their work.
Attention to detail. Analysts study an organization’s computer systems and must pay attention to detail to uncover areas of inefficiency or error.
Organizational skills. Analysts may coordinate with different areas of an organization and must keep track of many tasks and deadlines to ensure projects are on schedule.
Job prospect
Employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, about the same as the average for all occupations.
On average, about 47,500 computer systems analyst jobs are expected to open annually during this decade. Many of these vacancies are expected to be due to the need to replace workers who move to a different occupation or exit the workforce (e.g., retire).
How to Become a Computer Network Architect
How to Become a Database Administrator or Architect
Employment
As organizations across the economy continue to rely on information technology (IT), computer systems analysts will be hired to design and install new computer systems.
Small companies with minimal IT requirements will find it more cost-effective to contract with an outside company for these services than to hire a computer systems analyst directly.
Pay
Through May 2021, the median annual salary for computer systems analysts is $99,270. The median wage is when half of the workers in an occupation are paid more than that amount, and the other half are paid less. The bottom 10% earn less than $60,680, and the top 10% earn more than $158,010.
In May 2021, the median annual salaries for computer systems analysts in the top industries where they work were as follows:
- Corporate and Business Administration $100,340
- Computer system design and related services 100,220
- Financial insurance 99,340
- Information 97,230
- Government 80,040
Most computer systems analysts work full-time.
