Computer Systems Analysts help companies in achieving their business goals by managing IT solutions. Having a sound knowledge of both, technology and business, these professionals analyze company’s computer systems and current procedures, recommending strategic changes to enhance productivity
How To Become a Computer Systems Analyst 
Should I Become a Computer Systems Analyst?
Computer System Analysts have a solid background in programming and are skilled developers. They don’t just design and develop codes but also lead teams of software developers.
These professionals research different trends in technology and use their findings to design and implement customized technological solutions. Their responsibilities include maximizing the return on investment through increased functionality – testing new systems and networks and training the end-users in the usage of specialized software/hardware and online tools.
The following table outlines the basics of a career as a Computer Systems Analyst, including the minimum education required, licensing, experience, key skills and the annual mean salary.
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Education Required
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Bachelor’s Degree
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Major Requirement
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Computer Systems Analysis, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Computer Information System
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Licensure/Certification
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No professional certification is required but candidates can individually earn certifications for better prospects
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Experience/Training
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Not mandatory but 3-5 years of experience in the field is recommended
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Key Skills
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Organizational skills and multi-tasking, analytical skills, proficiency in related software, programming and coding, ability to meet deadlines
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Annual Mean Salary (2018)
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$93,610 per year
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Job Outlook (2018-2028)
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9% (faster than average)
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Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2018)
According to the BLS 2018 stats, the mean hourly wage of Computer System Analysts was $45.01, and their annual salary was $93,610. With technological advancements, the demand for qualified systems analysts is expected to grow 9% between 2018 and 2028 (BLS). Job growth is expected for Computer System Analysts especially in sectors like health and IT industries.
Career Requirements
Computer System Analysts’ job requires a minimum bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. Students can earn a degree in different related fields like computer science, system analysis, computer information systems and management information systems. Some senior level positions require a master’s degree in business or IT. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is 9% growth rate predicted in the field of Computer System Analysts between 2018 and 2028. This increase attributes to the continuous reliance on computer analysts to help companies achieve their business goals.
For most employers, marketable skills for Computer System Analysts include business and information systems administration, business intelligence analysis, software development and project management.
Steps To Become a Computer System Analyst
Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree
Computer Systems Analysts’ education requirements include a bachelor’s degree. A student can major in information technology, computer science or any other related field to complete the course requirement. Bachelor’s degree programs for computer analysts cover topics like Information Technology, Systems Design, Programming, Operating Systems and Computer Algorithms. After completing the degree, students can further enhance their portfolio by taking business courses, or can opt for masters in IT or MBA.
Step 2: Complete Computer Systems Analyst Training
Training is usually a part of student’s degree program in the form of internships and on-field training. Students are given real-life exposure as they are introduced to different technologies and work environments.
Step 3: Get a Certification
This is not a mandatory requirement but most professionals earn extra certifications to enhance their qualification and to remain up-to-date with latest technology. Places like Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) offer different certifications like Certified Analytics Professional (CAP), Certified Data Professional (CDP) and Certified Computing Professional (CCP) to help professionals boost their resumes.
Step 4: Look for Employment
Some companies require Computer Systems Analysts to work with huge and complex networks that include handling a large IT staff. Analysts can work in different areas like finance and engineering, and some even work in their individual capacity. Computer Analysts mostly work in an office setting and at times even have to visit multiple offices or even travel to cities, depending on the size of the company.