A Business Analyst works with functional and project teams to help improve efficiency and generate higher profit margins. While most business analysts work in-house, they can also be employed by consultancy firms.
In their role, they help to upgrade current operating procedures, integrate technology and automate processes that help companies achieve their objectives. Business analysts use data visualisation and project management tools to support their findings. They help to create technological solutions that meet business needs.
In this article, we will learn how to become a Business Analyst, including the qualifications and skills required for this role.
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Business Analyst Requirements
Depending on the industry and the size of the company, a Business Analyst can be a mid or senior-level role. Individuals who rise to this role have several years of experience in entry-level roles such as Junior Analyst or Data Analyst. Students need to understand how to become a Business Analyst, so they can design a clear career path.
These are usually supporting roles where fresh graduates learn to gather and analyse relevant data for various projects and tasks. Analysts are delegated bigger projects with more responsibility as they gain experience and learn how to employ their technical skills.
Typically, employers seek business analysts who have a strong educational background. At the same time, business analysts must also be experts in utilising various tools and have specialised certifications that can benefit the industry the firm is operating in.
Those wanting to learn more about how to become a Business Analyst, should study the below list of requirements that employers seek for Business Analyst roles.
Business Analyst Requirements – Education
- Degrees in Computer Science, Business Administration, Finance, or related fields are common.
- A background in Data Analysis or Systems Engineering is also advantageous.
Certifications for Business Analysts
- Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
- Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA)
- Agile Analysis Certification (AAC)
- Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)
Tools for Business Analysts
- SQL
- Microsoft Excel
- Trello
- Salesforce
Skills for Business Analysts
- Problem-Solving
- Analytical Thinking
- Communication
- Time Management
Know more about Management Consultant vs Business Analyst: Learn the Differences
What are the Educational Qualifications of a Business Analyst?
When students explore how to become a Business Analyst, they will discover that several educational pathways lead to this career. They can complete an undergraduate programme in a business or computer related field such as Business Administration or Computer Science.
If a student chooses to complete a degree in business, they should complete short courses in programming and data analytics to gain competency. Likewise, students who complete their undergraduate studies in computer-related fields should take short courses that will allow them to understand business principles. They can also enrol for a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Individuals who wish to become business analysts should also consider completing certifications. These help them to increase earning potential, make it possible to apply for better jobs, and allow analysts to switch industries.
When students are researching how to become a Business Analyst, they should also try to gain an understanding of the various certifications.
Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA)
This is for professionals just beginning their careers and requires candidates to have at least 21 hours of professional training credits. This exam is offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA).
Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA)
This certification is for professionals with several years of industry experience. The exam includes business analysis concepts, competencies, and fundamentals of business.
Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
This is the final certification level offered by the IIBA. To qualify, candidates must have at least 7,500 working hours over the past 10 years.
Business Analyst Course in South Africa
When students search for how to become a Business Analyst, they will discover that there is no undergraduate Business Analyst degree in South Africa. Graduates in this field usually complete their business or computer-related studies. Students can study for a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) at Regenesys Business School. This accredited three-year programme helps develop management and strategic thinking skills.
1. Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Business Administration
- Matric with Bachelor pass [or]
- NQF level 4 equivalent qualification [or]
- A relevant NQF Level 5 qualification from an accredited institution as per SAQA requirements
- Basic Computer skills
Alternatively, students can apply for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science offered by Regenesy School of Technology. This accredited three-year programme is offered online and teaches Advanced Calculus, Programming Languages, and Complex Analysis.
2. Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Matric with Bachelor pass [or]
- NQF level 4 equivalent qualification [or]
- A relevant NQF Level 5 qualification from an accredited institution as per SAQA requirements
- Competent in Mathematics and written and oral communication skills at NQF Level 4
How to Become a Business Analyst?
A Business Analyst needs to understand the fundamentals of business principles, including operations and specific methodologies such as Six Sigma. While it is not compulsory, data analysis and programming skills can be beneficial for this role. It can help business analysts to better evaluate large data sets and help set commands for regular procedures.
Students aspiring to become business analysts can pursue undergraduate studies in business-related fields such as a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Finance, or Economics, or in computer-related fields like a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
These are the steps students can take when they wish to know how to become a Business Analyst:
- Complete an undergraduate programme in a relevant field
- Take a Data Analytics course
- Work on projects to develop practical skills
- Learn to work with data visualisation tools
- Develop a portfolio
- Apply to Business Analyst jobs
Learn What Does a Business Analysts Do? A Simple Overview of Their Role and Importance! here
What Skills Does a Business Analyst Need?
When students learn more about how to become a Business Analyst, they will understand that while it is primarily a technical role, analysts also need to possess soft skills. The combination of these skills allows them to work with various teams, understand their point of view, and help to create a smooth integration of new systems.
1. Technical Skills for a Business Analyst
- Microsoft Excel
- SQL and relational databases
- Programming languages such as R and Python
- Data Visualisation tools such as Tableau and Power BI
2. Soft Skills for a Business Analyst
- Communication
- Analytical Thinking
- Communication
- Negotiation
- Problem-Solving
What is the Business Analyst Career Path?
When students research to learn about how to become a Business Analyst, they will discover that this role is present in all industries. They can work as operations analysts, business process analysts, enterprise architects, etc, in fields as varied as logistics and technology.
1. Entry Level Jobs
These positions involve working directly with large data sets, from collection to evaluation. In these roles, they work on a variety of projects under the guidance of senior analysts.
- Junior Business Analyst
- Entry-level Analyst
- Junior Analyst
- Analyst
2. Mid-Level Jobs
These roles involve greater responsibility and working on larger projects. Analysts in this position must display leadership skills and help to train junior analysts.
- Senior Business Analyst
- Business Architect
- Senior Analyst
- Lead Business Analyst
3. Senior Level Jobs
These are usually upper management and C-Suite roles that help to oversee a department or multiple teams. The role also becomes more business-focused at this stage.
- Director of Business
- Senior Business Architect
- Vice President
- Chief Information Officer (CIO)
- Chief Operations Officer (COO)
- Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Conclusion
A Business Analyst has a unique role that helps to combine business operations and technology. These analysts identify opportunities to improve efficiency, streamline processes, and drive profitability. They use analytical tools, data visualisation techniques, and communication skills to bridge gaps between stakeholders and technical teams.
Students who want to know how to become a Business Analyst must begin with a strong undergraduate programme in business or computer, gain practical experience, complete industry-recognised certifications, and build a portfolio.
Visit the Regenesys website today to learn details about the institute’s various undergraduate programmes. Hurry and apply before the application deadline!
How to Become a Business Analyst? – FAQs
What is a Business Analyst?
A Business Analyst identifies business needs, analyses processes, and implements solutions to improve efficiency and profitability.
What are a business analyst’s qualifications?
Business analysts need a strong educational foundation, be certified, and know how to use various tools such as Microsoft Excel, Tableau, Power BI, etc.
What should I study to become a business analyst?
A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Computer Science, Finance, or a related field is typically required. Certifications like CBAP, ECBA, and PMI-PBA enhance job prospects.
Is there a Business Analyst degree?
There is no particular Business Analyst degree, but there are related short courses that individuals can complete.
What is the Business Analyst career path?
Typical career paths include entry-level roles such as Junior Analyst or Data Analyst, mid-level roles such as Lead Analyst or Senior Business Analyst, and Senior positions such as Director, CP, or COO.
What skills does a Business Analyst need?
Some required skills include analytical thinking, problem solving, time management, and negotiation.
