Data Analyst career guide
Data analysts collect, analyse and interpret data to help organisations make informed business decisions.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does a Data Analyst do?
Data analysts collect, analyse and interpret data to help organisations make informed business decisions.
- Office
- Hybrid working
- Remote working
- Analytics teams
- Technology companies
- Banks
- Retailers
- Government
- Healthcare organisations
How to become a Data Analyst
Many data analysts qualify through higher education or apprenticeships before progressing into specialist analytics and data science roles.
Degree or Degree Apprenticeship in Data Analytics, Computer Science, Mathematics or a related subject.
- Degree apprenticeship
- University
- Apprenticeship
Skills and progression for Data Analyst
- SQL
- Data visualisation
- Statistics
- Problem solving
- Communication
- Senior Data Analyst
- Analytics Manager
- Data Scientist
- Head of Data
- Chief Data Officer
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering