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 asanalytical 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:
- strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- attention to detail
- an ability to interpret and communicate data clearly
- confidence working with numbers and spreadsheets
- familiarity with digital tools and emerging technologies
- the ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams.
How to become a data analyst
If you are exploring how to become a data analyst, the typical pathway includes completing a degree in data analytics, information technology, business analytics, statistics, or a related field. Throughout your studies, you will learn how to work with data mining tools, visualisation software, databases, and master analytical techniques used in industry.Depending on your chosen study area, learning outcomes may cover areas such as programming, data modelling, machine learning concepts, and statistical analysis. Gaining practical experience through internships, entry level roles, or project-based work will help you develop the skills needed to enter the field with confidence.
Every journey to study is individual and there are several pathways to reaching your goals in data analytics.
View UniSQ’s Information Technology or Data Science degrees.
Average salary per week
$2213
Future demand
Very Strong
Industries
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Data analyst FAQ's
What are the key data analyst qualifications?
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.
What is the typical data analyst career path?
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.
What data analyst courses can I study?
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.
How long does it take to become a data analyst?
Completing a bachelor's’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.
Is data analysis a good career?
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.
Sign up for the latest information
UniSQ is collecting the personal information on this form for support for students and prospective students and for marketing purposes. Further information concerning privacy is available.