IT Business Systems Analysts: How to Become One
If you were to ask a group of it business systems analysts about how they arrived at their current job, there's a good chance you would get several different answers about the paths and steps that each person took.
That said, there are still ways that you can develop a baseline understanding of the preparation that is necessary to become one.
The Best Adult Colleges and Careers Guide has gathered data to provide you with insight into the type of education that's commonly required for it business systems analysts to land a job. This page contains information, sourced from real job postings, that describes the experience levels and specific skills that employers of it business systems analysts expect candidates to have. In the end, this information will help you create an education or professional development plan that aligns with your career aspirations.
Keep reading to learn more about career steps for it business systems analysts.
What Education & Experience is Needed for IT Business Systems Analysts?
Do it business systems analysts need a degree? What kind of experience do it business systems analysts typically need? Thanks to data sourced from Lightcast™ from real job postings, we can get some clarity on those questions, as well as the level of education that is commonly required for it business systems analysts to secure jobs.
Education Level Required in Job Postings for IT Business Systems Analysts
Jobs Postings for IT Business Systems Analysts By Education
- Bachelor's degree: 186,696 (52%)
- No Education Listed: 95,493 (27%)
- Master's degree: 39,235 (11%)
- High School or GED: 27,495 (8%)
- Ph.D. or professional degree: 8,411 (2%)
A bachelor's degree is the level of education sought the most by employers of it business systems analysts. According to job data, a bachelor's degree was required for 52% of positions. In 27% of job listings no education level was listed and in 11% of postings a master's degree was required.
Experience Level Required in Job Postings for IT Business Systems Analysts
Jobs Postings for IT Business Systems Analysts By Experience
- 0-1 Years: 22,046 (10%)
- 2-3 Years: 66,593 (31%)
- 4-6 Years: 77,609 (36%)
- 7-9 Years: 27,397 (13%)
- 10+ Years: 20,151 (9%)
While the amount of required experience will vary based on the responsibility and seniority of the position, an aggregate view of job posting data can help paint a picture of the experience level sought for most job openings for it business systems analysts. In 36% of job postings for IT Business Systems Analysts, employers were looking for candidates with 4-6 years of experience. In 31% of listings employers were looking for candidates with 2-3 years of experience, while 7-9 years of experience was sought in 13% of job postings for it business systems analysts.
What Kind of Degree Do IT Business Systems Analysts Need?
So far this page has provided detail into the level of education and the amount of experience required in job openings for it business systems analysts, but what type of education or degree will help prepare you for a career in the field?
According to occupational data obtained through Lightcast,™ there are 28 key academic programs that can help prepare prospective it business systems analysts, and in 2021 a total of 241,444 of those programs were completed at institutions in the United States.
Check out the information below to learn more about the specific programs that should be considered by prospective it business systems analysts.
Top Degree Programs for IT Business Systems Analysts
Top 5 Degree Programs for IT Business Systems Analysts (2021)
| Program | Completions |
|---|---|
| Computer Science. | 59,346 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | 51,511 |
| Information Technology. | 31,478 |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | 22,799 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | 14,182 |
| Program | Completions |
|---|---|
| Computer Science. | 59,346 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | 51,511 |
| Information Technology. | 31,478 |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | 22,799 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | 14,182 |
| Management Information Systems, General. | 11,636 |
| Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | 9,647 |
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | 8,719 |
| Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other. | 4,000 |
| Systems Engineering. | 3,904 |
| Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator. | 3,302 |
| Informatics. | 2,726 |
| Computer Programming, Specific Applications. | 2,399 |
| Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst. | 2,305 |
| Information Technology Project Management. | 2,076 |
| Medical Informatics. | 2,004 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | 1,880 |
| Computer/Computer Systems Technology/Technician. | 1,789 |
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other. | 1,755 |
| Computer Software and Media Applications, Other. | 1,437 |
| Systems Science and Theory. | 884 |
| Artificial Intelligence. | 518 |
| Management Information Systems and Services, Other. | 476 |
| Computer Programming, Vendor/Product Certification. | 278 |
| Computer Programming, Other. | 152 |
| Air and Space Operations Technology. | 145 |
| Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other. | 91 |
| Medical Illustration and Informatics, Other. | 5 |
Top Online College For Working Adults
Franklin University is a top choice for adults who need to balance school with busy lives. Founded in 1902 in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin's main focus has been serving adult students and tailoring education to fit their needs. Nonprofit and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org/800.621.7440), Franklin offers more than 50 affordable bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs — all available 100% online.
Degree Options for IT Business Systems Analysts
Learn to translate business requirements into robust yet functional software applications and database designs to help businesses not only run but thrive, and jump start your career as a user support specialist, computer system analyst, or software developer.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Prepare yourself for an in-demand career in cybersecurity where you’ll build defensive and offensive strategies for cybersecurity to mitigate risks and protect people, processes and systems.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Equip yourself for a role as an IT, network or help desk specialist with fundamental technology skills, including medium-scale network administration, small website and application development, and database design and querying.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Build in-demand skills in programming, data management and cloud computing with Franklin’s online data science bachelor’s degree.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Excel in the rapidly growing healthcare industry with comprehensive training in healthcare management, informatics and systems.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Go beyond basic programming and develop the technical skills necessary to apply, design, and implement software systems.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Prevent costly security breaches by implementing adequate security measures to protect data in any industry or government sector.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Bridge the gap between business and technology and develop the interpersonal skills to become an IT liaison in your organization.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Harness the power of data by creating data-driven strategies and communicating data insights with a B.S. Information Systems-Analytics Focus.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Develop your ability to lead, communicate and make strategic decisions that impact projects and processes with a B.S. Information Systems-Business Analysis & Project Management Focus
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Build technical savvy and business acumen that bridges the gap between business and technology with a B.S. Information Systems with a Business Information Systems focus.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Get the knowledge to manage healthcare data, navigate regulations and inform ethical decision-making with a B.S. Information Systems-Healthcare Information Systems Focus
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Play a vital role in any business environment by designing and implementing mission-critical infrastructure, security, and servers.
- Class Type: 100% online
- Cost Per Credit: $398
Develop the advanced technical skills needed to turn complex programming specifications into well-designed computer programs.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Deliver high-quality software that helps companies and organizations maintain data security and integrity with Franklin’s 20-month online M.S. in Computer Science with a focus in Cybersecurity.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 20
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Learn to create scalable software systems that Improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency by earning Franklin’s 20-month online M.S. in Computer Science with a focus in Software Systems. The hands-on, theory-to-practice program will prepare you to be an asset in a variety of industries
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Earn your M.S. in Information Technology degree 100% online in as few as 16 months.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 16
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Earn your M.S. in Information Technology degree with a focus in Cybersecurity 100% online in as few as 16 months.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 16
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Earn your M.S. in Information Technology degree with a focus in Data Analytics 100% online in as few as 16 months.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 16
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Earn your M.S. in Information Technology degree with a focus in Healthcare 100% online in as few as 16 months.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 16
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Earn your M.S. in Information Technology degree with a focus in IT Leadership 100% online in as few as 16 months.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 16
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Earn your M.S. in Information Technology degree with a focus in IT Management 100% online in as few as 16 months.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 16
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Earn your M.S. in Information Technology degree with a focus in Learning Technology 100% online in as few as 16 months.
- Class Type: Face-to-face, Online coursework
- Months To Complete: 16
- Placement Tests: GMAT/GRE not required for admission
Certificates & Microcredentials for IT Business Systems Analysts
Start your cloud computing journey with AWS certificate courses for beginners and keep up with the fast pace of innovation.
- Class Type: 100% Online
- Time To Complete: 1-2 months
- Cost: $35/month
This DeepLearning AI certificate course lets you dive into the cutting-edge world of AI specialization, machine learning and data-driven solutions.
- Class Type: 100% Online
- Time To Complete: 4-5 months
- Cost: $35/month
In-demand programmers know Git. You can, too, with GitHub certificate courses that put you among the ranks of other Git certification-ready development pros.
- Class Type: 100% Online
- Time To Complete: 3-4 months
- Cost: $35/month
Fast track your IT career with the Google IT support training and certificate that helps you learn about network protocols, operating systems, and solving problems using code.
- Class Type: 100% Online
- Time To Complete: 4-5 months
- Cost: $35/month
Develop practical skills in Python and IBM applied AI thanks to deep learning courses that show you how to design, build and deploy AI-powered apps.
- Class Type: 100% Online
- Time To Complete: 4-5 months
- Cost: $35/month
Build your cloud developer portfolio with this hands-on IBM full stack cloud developer certificate course that uses the latest tools and technologies to manage full stack cloud native apps.
- Class Type: 100% Online
- Time To Complete: 5-6 months
- Cost: $35/month
- Class Type: 100% Online
- Time To Complete: 1-2 months
- Cost: $35/month
What Skills Do IT Business Systems Analysts Need?
Education and experience have been covered, so what are the specific skills and traits needed by it business systems analysts to secure a job?
A good way to understand this is to examine actual job postings for skills commonly sought by employers. Continue reading for a breakdown of specialized skills found in job postings for it business systems analysts, as well as common skills that can help you thrive in the workplace.
In-Demand Skills for Today's IT Business Systems Analysts
Based on 309,037 job postings
Top 5 Specialized Skills for IT Business Systems Analysts
| Skills | Postings | % of Total Postings |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | 72,807 | 24% |
| Project Management | 70,112 | 23% |
| Business Process | 63,007 | 20% |
| Agile Methodology | 59,808 | 19% |
| Business Requirements | 59,730 | 19% |
Top 5 Common Skills for IT Business Systems Analysts
| Skills | Postings | % of Total Postings |
|---|---|---|
| Communications | 141,555 | 46% |
| Management | 107,041 | 35% |
| Problem Solving | 79,214 | 26% |
| Leadership | 68,835 | 22% |
| Operations | 68,119 | 22% |
Based on 309,037 job postings related to it business systems analysts, computer science was the top specialized skill sought by employers, with 24% of all postings looking for that skillset. Skills for project management, business process, agile methodology, business requirements and sql (programming language) were also highly sought.
As for common skills, communications was the most desired skill found in job postings for it business systems analysts, followed by management, problem solving, leadership, operations and troubleshooting (problem solving).
| Skill | Postings | % of Total Postings |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | 72,807 | 24% |
| Project Management | 70,112 | 23% |
| Business Process | 63,007 | 20% |
| Agile Methodology | 59,808 | 19% |
| Business Requirements | 59,730 | 19% |
| SQL (Programming Language) | 57,649 | 19% |
| Systems Analysis | 47,941 | 16% |
| Workflow Management | 43,731 | 14% |
| Business Systems Analysis | 41,798 | 14% |
| Information Systems | 34,969 | 11% |
| Data Analysis | 34,365 | 11% |
| Automation | 31,481 | 10% |
| Finance | 30,661 | 10% |
| Process Improvement | 27,451 | 9% |
| Scrum (Software Development) | 26,918 | 9% |
| Software Development | 25,867 | 8% |
| Auditing | 23,895 | 8% |
| Java (Programming Language) | 23,724 | 8% |
| Business Systems | 23,256 | 8% |
| Systems Development Life Cycle | 23,198 | 8% |
| Skill | Postings | % of Total Postings |
|---|---|---|
| Communications | 141,555 | 46% |
| Management | 107,041 | 35% |
| Problem Solving | 79,214 | 26% |
| Leadership | 68,835 | 22% |
| Operations | 68,119 | 22% |
| Troubleshooting (Problem Solving) | 60,488 | 20% |
| Customer Service | 56,889 | 18% |
| Writing | 54,414 | 18% |
| Planning | 52,798 | 17% |
| Information Technology | 51,941 | 17% |
| Research | 42,470 | 14% |
| Detail Oriented | 41,484 | 13% |
| Microsoft Excel | 38,652 | 13% |
| Microsoft Office | 37,261 | 12% |
| Presentations | 35,427 | 11% |
| Coordinating | 35,110 | 11% |
| Interpersonal Communications | 33,661 | 11% |
| Verbal Communication Skills | 33,418 | 11% |
| Team Leadership | 32,947 | 11% |
| Sales | 32,645 | 11% |
Additional Links
Ready to dig deeper into career information about it business systems analysts? Visit our other pages focused on salary and education for it business systems analysts.
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