Systems analyst
System analysts review companies' software, hardware and IT processes and develop plans to improve or replace them.
- Starter salary£34,000 a year
- Experienced£65,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 40 a week
What you'll do
As a systems analyst, you could:
- work with employers and clients to understand what they need
- analyse existing technology and identify issues and problems
- work out the costs and time needed to complete projects
- collaborate with IT architects and programmers to plan and build systems
- work with testers at each stage of development
- continue to run checks after the new or upgraded system goes live
- document the decisions and steps taken during development
- write technical guides for new systems
Working environment
You could work in an office, at a client's business or from home.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of systems analysis and development
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to work well with others
- excellent verbal communication skills
- maths knowledge
- business management skills
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become a systems analyst
You could get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in a subject like:
- computer science
- information management systems
- business information systems
- software development and engineering
- maths and operational research
You could also search for courses accredited by techskills , which works with employers to offer training that meets the requirements of the IT industry.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
- Business Analyst Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Digital and Technology Solutions Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Systems Engineer Level 7 Apprenticeship
- Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship
These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete and combine work-based training with academic study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Work
You could work as an assistant analyst, programmer or software developer and move into systems analysis through further work-based training and promotion.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- become a senior systems analyst
- move into a more strategic role, such as technical or enterprise architecture
- specialise in a particular field like big data, AI programming or cloud computing
- work as a contractor or freelance consultant
Career tips
You'll find it useful to have an understanding of agile project management methods .
Professional and industry bodies
While working, you may find it helpful to get an industry certification to demonstrate your skills and expertise.
Guides for this industry
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