Data analyst
Collect and analyse data to predict future trends and patterns.
About the job
What it's like
You will collect numerical information to identify trends and patterns. You’ll create data models that can help you analyse data and predict what might happen in the future. This could be done using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools.
You’ll then explain your findings using graphs, charts, diagrams, tables and infographics. Again, AI can help you create these quickly and accurately.
Data analysts work across several 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’ll:
look for trends and patterns that’ll help companies make business decisions
analyse market research and trends in consumer feedback
gather findings from opinion polls
predict demand for services or goods
check quality control standards in areas like drug and food testing
You could also work in the public sector. This means you’d analyse data for government agencies, councils or universities.
As a government-based data analyst, you’ll collect, analyse and publish information on:
population trends
the economy
the labour market
transport
crime
Once you’ve collected the initial data, you’ll process it quickly. Government ministers will then use your data to inform the media and wider population.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Government Statistical Service – explore careers information from the office that collects, analyses and publishes official statistics
Market Research Society – find training courses in insight and analytics
Statisticians in the Pharmaceutical Industry – find out about working with statistics in the healthcare industry for the benefit of patients
Data Lab – explore events, careers and guidance from Scotland's innovation centre for data and AI
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing Life sciences Healthcare Food and drink Finance, law and professional services Digital technologies
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.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta 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 each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Maths (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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