Aspiring systems analysts, otherwise known as computer systems analysts, typically find that a degree in business can be very helpful in their careers as systems analysts. Computer systems analysts design, create and install computer systems and processes into an organization’s computer system. They’re also the professionals who are in charge of an organization’s computer system and whose job it is to ensure their system is operating efficiently and securely as possible. Systems analysts are an important part of any organization. Learn why business courses or business degrees can be so helpful to individuals working as systems analysts.
Why Business Knowledge is Important for Systems Analysts
Although the bulk of the work performed by computer systems analysts is based on computer programs, they’re also heavily involved in the business part of the company as well. They need to be familiar not just with the type of business but also what makes it run successfully. The very first thing systems analyst do is analyze the organization and the goals of the organization so they can set up an appropriate computer and network system.
For these reasons, systems analysts need to have a lot of business expertise and knowledge. For instance, a computer systems analyst working for a hospital must know the health care system, while one working for a financial institution will need different kinds of knowledge. Regardless of the industry, the systems analyst must have first-hand knowledge of the business.
Educational Requirements for Systems Analysts
There are a few different educational paths towards becoming a systems analyst. Most candidates pursuing this career have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a similar computer-related field. Some computer systems analysts have liberal arts degrees with concentrations in computer science or computer systems analysis, while others may have technical degrees.
Some analysts take business courses, and some even earn business degrees either in addition to or instead of a computer-related degree. Some organizations prefer their systems analysts have a Master of Business Administration degree with a specialization in management information systems, information systems or computer science.
Business Courses in a Systems Analysts Degree Program
Computer systems analysts are often referred to as the big-picture thinkers in information technology, and this has to do with their great heads for business. There are various courses and programs systems analysts can take to be educated on the business end of things. A student in a management information systems program may complete the following courses, which are important for business and computer systems analyst positions.
- Principles of Management
- Database Management
- Cloud Computing and Big Data
- Business Analytics and Information Systems
- Business Policy and Strategy
Career Outlook for Systems Analysts
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that computer systems analysts should see job growth of nine percent during 2016-2018. As technology continues to be a huge part of our world, the demand for systems analysts will continue to grow. While growth for these analysts is heaviest in the healthcare industry, their services are needed in all industries.
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With the predicted job growth, about 56,000 new systems analysts jobs should be created by 2028. As of May 2018, computer systems analysts earned an average yearly wage of $93,610. Computer systems analysts at the lowest 10 percent earned about $54,360, while those at the top 90 percent earned about $142,220. Typically, those with additional training, such as business degrees or courses, have the best career opportunities.
U.S. News & World Report ranks computer systems analysts No. 2 among the Best Technology Jobs. Careers in business may be versatile, but business jobs generally have high wages. Putting these two careers together brings numerous job opportunities for candidates. A business degree proves to be a real asset for systems analysts.