Data analysts turn raw numbers into insights that drive decisions across just about every professional sector you can imagine. From business and healthcare, to sports and science, if you love spotting patterns and solving puzzles, and using technology to reveal the hidden meaning behind large data sets, then this career could be a really good fit for you.
Updated: 26 Nov 2025
It really depends on what type of project you’re working on, however three tasks you might be involved with on a daily basis include:
Extract and prepare data
Unfortunately, usable data doesn’t grow on trees. You’ll use programs like SQL or Python to pull large quantities of information from databases, then tidy it up to the point where you can run your analyses
Look for trends
You’ll apply statistical tests or build basic models to search for correlations in the data that will give you some insight into future outcomes. This enables your team to make informed strategies, giving you the edge in competitive markets
Visualise results
A big part of your job is to communicate your findings to non-technical teams that make decisions in the company. You’ll need to use diagrams, charts, simplified language and any other method to communicate complex data concepts into useful, actionable insights
Analytical mindset: Being able to break complex problems down into manageable steps while questioning assumptions is a great way to think about data analysis
Technical proficiency: Being fluent in databases, programming languages, and spreadsheet tools is a must
Creativity: Think outside the box, ask the right questions, and use your imagination
You’ll need solid A-levels, and a strong performance in mathematics or computing is highly advantageous, though subjects like economics, or any numerical science can also prepare you well. Entry grades are broad, but universities generally ask for 88–170 UCAS points with A-level grades ranging from A*A*A*– CCD.
Popular undergraduate courses include BSc Data Science and BSc Data Analytics, or you can also find a lot of joint honours options in this field, such as BSc Mathematics and Statistics or BSc Computer Science with Data Analytics.
Some courses carry professional accreditation, however this is definitely not a requisite for high-level professional work. Look instead for courses that cover the type of data analysis that will be useful for the career your have in mind, whether that be in financial modelling, scientific research, marketing, engineering, or anything else.
NEXT: Scan our database of data analytics degrees
You’ll typically have a core curriculum in the first year, and elective modules in years two and three allowing you to deepen your knowledge in areas of interest. Full-time courses usually last three years, and you’ll cover programming, database design, statistics, information visualisation, and machine learning before applying what you’ve learned to tackle simulated real-world projects.
Degree apprenticeships in data analytics do exist, allowing you to earn a salary for a fixed contract of around 40 months, while studying part-time, with fees paid by your employer. Many science, mathematics, computing and engineering degrees have a large data component anyway, so graduates of these degrees can often up-skill with a short professional course that offers intensive training in data analysis tools, ideal for a post-uni or mid-career pivot.
Newly qualified analysts often start with salaries around £24,000–£30,000, and with experience can move into more senior consultant or engineer roles earning £35,000–£50,000 and beyond. At the top end, the sky really is the limit, with data being such a key component in large multinational companies and world markets.
Portfolio projects: It’s never too early to work on your portfolio. The tools are online, and you don’t need anyone’s permission to start. Build a portfolio with cleaned datasets, visualisations, and code notebooks to showcase your work
Internships and placements: Seek part-time roles or summer internships in finance, marketing, or IT departments to gain practical exposure
“The field combines computer science, statistics, and domain expertise, allowing you to work in various industries like healthcare, finance, and technology.”— Muthurani, MSc Data Analytics and AI at Newcastle University
NEXT: Hear more about what current data analysis students
Do I need coding skills before university?
Basic familiarity with Python, R, and SQL definitely helps, but many courses start with beginner modules on the technology you’ll be using throughout.
Is mathematics essential?
Yes. Statistics and linear algebra are the basis of most analysis techniques.
Are fast-track courses available?
Yes. If you already have a degree which required numerical analysis or basic programming skills, then you can enrol on a range of intensive short-courses to build proficiency with key tools.
Ready to take the next step? Compare data analytics degrees and choose a course that will fit your career goals. Think about what type of work you want to be doing after you graduate, and build the skills to make it happen.