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Data analyst-statistician

Data analyst-statisticians identify trends, create models, collect numerical information and present results.

Average salary (a year)

£23,000 Starter

to

£70,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

37 to 39 a week

You could work

evenings occasionally

How to become a data analyst-statistician

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a graduate training scheme

University

You'll usually need a degree or postgraduate award in

  • statistics
  • mathematics
  • economics
  • operational research
  • psychology

Other subjects may be acceptable if they include formal training in statistics as part of the course, for example social science or geography.

Some university courses offer an industrial placement or sandwich year, which allows you to work in industry or commerce as part of your studies. This could be useful when you look for jobs after you finish your course.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C)
  • at least 2 A levels, including maths
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More information

Volunteering and experience

The Royal Statistical Society runs a volunteering scheme, which gives you the chance to use your skills to help community organisations and charities. This is a good way to increase your understanding of how statistics can be put to good use in wider society.

Other routes

You can apply to join the Government Statistical Service (GSS) as a trainee through the Civil Service Fast Stream programme. You'll need a good degree pass or postgraduate qualification to do this.

The GSS also directly recruits graduates, and those with equivalent and relevant experience, into positions like statistical officer.

More information

Career tips

Some employers will expect you to have a working knowledge of statistical software packages, like Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).

Further information

You can find out more on careers in statistics from the Royal Statistical Society.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • maths knowledge
  • analytical thinking skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • the ability to read English
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • you will be expected to use a computer confidently as part of this job.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

In other industries or sectors, you might be involved in:

  • looking for trends and patterns to help companies make business decisions
  • analysing market research and trends in consumer feedback
  • opinion poll analysis
  • predicting demand for services or goods
  • checking quality control standards in areas like drug and food testing

Working environment

You could work in an office.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could progress into management, move into academic research or work as a freelance consultant.

Training opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Data Analyst Apprenticeship

  • Wage : £288.60 Weekly
  • Location: Telford TF3 4NT

Apprentice Aviation Analyst

  • Wage : £19,152.00 Annually
  • Location: Luton LU2 9TN
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

A-Level Statistics

  • Provider: CARMEL COLLEGE
  • Start date: 03 September 2019
  • Location: ST. HELENS

GCE A Level in Statistics

  • Provider: Cardinal Newman College
  • Start date: 02 September 2019
  • Location: PRESTON
Find courses near you

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