Whether you've considered a career in data analytics or have no idea what it involves, it can be a great career move. Find out why.
Data analytics has arguably become more important than ever in recent years, particularly with the rise of big data – a term that you may have heard thrown around a lot over the last few years.
You may not realise that big data (large sets of data that can be analysed to reveal patterns and trends) can, in fact, affect your everyday life. This can make a role in data analytics a lot more interesting than you might think.
Why study data analytics?
Let’s assume that most of you want to study something that enables you to pursue a career with a decent salary – well, that’s exactly what studying data analytics can do.
According to information from Prospects, the entry level salary for a data analyst usually lies between £24,000 and £25,000. Graduate schemes at larger companies are known to be even more financially rewarding for people who’re just starting their career; if you land yourself a place on one of those, you could be earning up to £30,000 – for your first job!
Money aside, data science is a fast-growing area, with the Royal Society reporting that the demand for data scientists and engineers grew by 231% between 2015 and 2019.
What better way to get into a rapidly expanding, lucrative industry than by learning everything you need to know on a relevant degree course? You’ll graduate confident in your knowledge of the topic and ready to be snapped up by someone who’s in great need of your skill set.
Data Analytics FAQs
Is data analytics right for me?
Do you have an inquiring mind? Are you good with figures, and keen to turn them into something more meaningful? Then data analytics might just be the best path for you!
Studying data analytics is also a great choice if you are uncertain as to the industry you want to work in, as data analytics roles are relevant to lots of different areas, including finance, education and marketing.
Data can be overwhelming for those who don’t know how to handle it. This means that anyone with a good knowledge of data analytics is already one step ahead of the rest. If helping people understand the worth of data and how to use it to their advantage, data analytics is definitely right for you.
Is it a good career path to choose?
Yes! Data analytics is important, and it’s only going to get more important as time goes on - as the above stats indicate!
Data analysts and scientists will be in high demand in so many different places, that you could literally take your pick. Who knows where it could take you?
If you're still not convinced, studying data analytics doesn't have to limit your career prospects. Here are some other roles where a knowledge of data analytics is beneficial:
- Web developer
- SEO specialist
- Business analyst
- Tech support specialist
What type of qualification will I get?
After studying a BSc, you can consider a range of postgraduate options, including an MSc (with or without specialism), MBA and Postgraduate Certificate.
Do I have to go to university full-time?
No, there are other ways. Distance Learning, for example, is a great way to fit your studies around existing commitments.
How long will it take?
Undergraduate degrees typically take 3 years to complete. Postgraduate degrees can be completed in anything between 1 and 5 years.
What entry requirements are there?
When applying for a master’s degree, you would normally be expected to have an undergraduate degree. At Arden, we also take relevant work experience into consideration.
What type of job could I get?
Although a role as a data analyst would be the most obvious choice, that isn’t necessarily where you must end up. You could choose to go onto a number of different roles in IT or marketing, or opt for something more specialist like SEO.
What salary can I expect?
According to Prospects, entry level salaries usually lie around the £24,000 to £25,000 mark. If you decide to study an MSc in Data Analytics (or a similar postgraduate degree), you could be looking at a salary of around £40,000.
Do I have to specialise in a specific area?
Not unless you want to. Data analysis itself is broader than you might think. Studying at postgraduate level offers you the perfect opportunity to specialise further.
What if I come from a non-data background?
You don’t have to have studied data analytics at undergraduate level to be able to study it for your postgrad. Although a relevant degree would be an advantage, Arden accepts applicants from all different backgrounds. Your work experience and motivation to study the programme will be taken into account.
