3 answers
Ladna
Student
Rochester, Minnesota
5
Questions
Asked
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As a Data Analyst, how long did it take for you to get to this position?
I wonder how much schooling and education as well as certifications I would need.
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3 answers
Sindhura Mullamuri
BI
14
Answers
Foster City, California
Updated
Sindhura’s Answer
Your path to becoming a data analyst can vary based on your background. Here's a friendly guide:
Education: You can start with a bachelor's degree in any field, but degrees in business, finance, statistics, or computer science are especially helpful. A master's degree or certifications can give you a boost.
Certifications: For entry-level jobs, it's good to know SQL, Excel, Power BI/Tableau, and sometimes Google Data Analytics or dbt.
Time to land a first role: If you're starting fresh, expect to spend about 6–12 months learning, doing projects, and applying for jobs. If you already have some experience in a related area like finance or research, it might take less time.
The main thing is gaining practical experience. Working on projects, doing internships, or taking student roles can be more important than extra schooling. Once you get your first job as an analyst, moving up becomes much easier.
Education: You can start with a bachelor's degree in any field, but degrees in business, finance, statistics, or computer science are especially helpful. A master's degree or certifications can give you a boost.
Certifications: For entry-level jobs, it's good to know SQL, Excel, Power BI/Tableau, and sometimes Google Data Analytics or dbt.
Time to land a first role: If you're starting fresh, expect to spend about 6–12 months learning, doing projects, and applying for jobs. If you already have some experience in a related area like finance or research, it might take less time.
The main thing is gaining practical experience. Working on projects, doing internships, or taking student roles can be more important than extra schooling. Once you get your first job as an analyst, moving up becomes much easier.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Becoming a data analyst can be an exciting journey, taking anywhere from six to eighteen months. If you're starting fresh, you might spend up to eighteen months learning important skills like SQL, Excel, Python, basic statistics, data visualization, data cleaning, and critical thinking. You'll also work on building a project portfolio and getting ready for the job market. If you already have some tech experience or know a bit about coding and databases, you might complete this journey in just three to nine months. Getting certifications like the Google Data Analytics Certificate or Microsoft’s Power BI certification can speed up your progress.
To shine in this field, creating a small portfolio of projects is key. This will show your skills, your ability to handle data, and how well you can explain your insights. Sharing your work on GitHub is a great idea. Internships or volunteer work can give you valuable, hands-on experience and strengthen what you've learned. Being active in the data community, meeting professionals, and using platforms like LinkedIn can help you grow your network and find new opportunities.
To shine in this field, creating a small portfolio of projects is key. This will show your skills, your ability to handle data, and how well you can explain your insights. Sharing your work on GitHub is a great idea. Internships or volunteer work can give you valuable, hands-on experience and strengthen what you've learned. Being active in the data community, meeting professionals, and using platforms like LinkedIn can help you grow your network and find new opportunities.
Marcela Trevino Calzada
Data Analysis
5
Answers
Torreón
Updated
Marcela’s Answer
It took me a couple of years to land a proper Data Analyst job, but I had been doing data analysis on my own in my previous roles. While working in HR, where data wasn't a big focus, I used my engineering background to get involved when we started on some KPIs. I took the initiative, got involved, and my efforts were noticed, leading to a position in the Data Analysis team focused on HR.
If you love Data Analysis, look for ways to include it in your current job. You don't have to wait for an official title to start.
If you love Data Analysis, look for ways to include it in your current job. You don't have to wait for an official title to start.