Systems analyst

You could do a degree in a relevant subject like:

• computer science
• information management systems
• business information systems
• maths and operational research

Some universities offer an Information Technology Management for Business degree in partnership with TP Degrees.

If you have a non-IT degree, you could complete a postgraduate conversion course which focuses on business skills as well as technical ability.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could do an information systems business analyst higher apprenticeship, or a digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You may be able to take a job in IT or business and build up your experience and qualifications while working. You could do this through online training or by attending short, intensive courses with IT training organisations.

You'll need highly developed computer and business skills.

Professional and industry bodies

You may find it helpful to get certification of your skills and expertise once you're working.

Further information

You can find out more about working and training in computing from The Chartered Institute for IT and Tech Future Careers.

You'll need:

• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• analytical thinking skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• business management skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• working out the business needs of your employer or client
• drawing up plans to improve or replace an IT system
• working out the costs and time needed to make your plans work
• working closely with programmers and software developers to build systems
• overseeing testing to find problems before the final version of a system goes live
• training staff and writing instruction manuals for new or upgraded systems

You could work in an office, at a client's business or from home.