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Career Profile

Data analyst

A data analyst collects, analyses and interprets data to identify trends, generate insights and support evidence-based decision-making.
Business, Finance and ManagementEngineering, Aviation and ScienceIT and Digital
Average weekly salary
$2213
Future demand
Very strong
Most common education level
Postgraduate degree

What does a data analyst do?

Data analysts help organisations make informed decisions by collecting, organising, and interpreting data. They identify trends, create reports, and translate complex information into meaningful insights that support business strategy. A data analyst may work with large datasets, dashboards, as well as analytical tools to uncover patterns that influence operations, marketing, finance, or customer experience. 

Data analysts are employed across many industries including government, healthcare, finance, education, consulting, and technology. As data continues to drive organisational decision making, professionals in this field play a key role in helping businesses operate more efficiently and effectively.

Is a career as a data analyst right for me?

A career in data analysis may suit you if you enjoy solving problems and finding insights hidden within information. Other skills and attributes that are important for this field include: 

Analytical thinking
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Communication
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Digital and technical capability
Proficiency in using technology, digital tools, and relevant software.
Teamwork
An ability to work effectively and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.

Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.

How to become a data analyst

There are many ways to build a career in data analysis. Relevant study can help you develop skills in working with data, analytical tools and statistical techniques, while practical experience can prepare you to turn complex information into meaningful insights. 

A common path to becoming a data analyst includes:  

  1. Complete a degree in data analytics, information technology, business analytics, statistics or a related field.
  2. Develop skills in areas such as data analysis, statistics, databases, programming and data visualisation.
  3. Gain experience using analytical tools and techniques to identify patterns, interpret data and communicate insights.
  4. Build practical experience through industry projects, internships or entry-level roles.
  5. Continue developing your technical and analytical skills as data tools and technologies evolve.

How long does it take to become a data analyst?

Completing a bachelor’s degree relevant to data analytics typically takes around three years of full-time study. Graduates may choose to enhance their skills through postgraduate study, microcredentials, or professional development courses depending on their career interests. 

Start your journey with UniSQ

Prepare for a data analyst career with a UniSQ information technology or data analytics degree and develop the analytical, technical and problem-solving skills needed to turn data into insights.

Data Science degrees
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Responsibilities and work settings

Day-to-day responsibilities

Collecting, organising and analysing data to identify trends, patterns and insights.

Creating reports, dashboards and visualisations to communicate findings.

Interpreting complex data to support organisational planning and decision-making.

Collaborating with stakeholders to understand data needs and communicate meaningful insights.

Where you might work

Data analytics and artificial intelligence organisations

Software development and technology companies

Banks and financial institutions

Government agencies, departments and councils

Cloud computing and IT infrastructure organisations

Telecommunications providers

Research institutes and research centres

Data analyst FAQ's

Data analyst qualifications generally include a bachelor's’s degree in data analytics, information technology, statistics, business analytics, or a related discipline. Many roles also value experience with analytical tools, problem-solving ability, and clear communication skills when presenting data insights. 

A data analyst career path often begins in junior analytical roles such as reporting assistant, business intelligence analyst, or graduate analyst. With experience, professionals may progress into senior analyst positions, data science roles, analytics consulting, or leadership roles in business intelligence and strategy. 

Data analyst courses at university level cover topics such as statistical analysis, data visualisation, predictive modelling, programming, and database management. These courses develop the technical and analytical skills required to process and interpret data for organisational decision making. UniSQ offers study options suited to those pursuing a career in data analytics. 

Yes, data analysis is a growing and in demand field. As organisations increasingly rely on data to guide decisions, skilled analysts are sought across a wide range of industries. A career in data analytics offers strong employment prospects, opportunities for advancement, and the ability to work across diverse sectors. 

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Data scientist
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Computer systems engineer
Cyber security analyst
Computer engineer

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Disclaimer: UniSQ’s Career Finder is a guide only. While reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, career information may change over time. Career statistics are sourced from Your Career and Jobs and Skills Australia. © Commonwealth of Australia. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. Salary figures listed on this page are in Australian Dollars (AUD).