Data analytics is a growing field that is in demand by employers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of computer and information research scientists, which includes data analysts, is projected to grow 15 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than average.
Skills need to become a data analyst:
- Analytical skills
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking
- Attention to detail
- Math skills
- Technical skills including SQL, Javascript, R, Python, SAS, Hadoop, Excel, PowerBI, and Tableau
The Management Information Systems (MIS) major is a great way to get some of these skills. Not only will you gain knowledge in technology with the MIS major, but you will also work on communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
- MIS 3376 Database Management focuses on data modeling and database design using Oracle SQL.
- MIS 3371 Transaction Processing I will introduce you to Javascript.
- MIS 4397 Programming for Business Analytics introduces R for data science.
- MIS 4397 Business Intelligence uses SAS to focus on data mining and business intelligence.
- MIS 4397 Cloud Data Visualization introduces PowerBI. The course covers how to use Microsoft PowerBI Desktop and the PowerBI services to create, view, and share data insights.
Other ways to gain the technical skills needed to be a data analyst:
The Hewlett Packard Enterprise Data Science Institute at UH provides free tutorials and courses to the UH community. Some of these courses include technology in Python, R, and Tableau. Learn more and register for courses on their website.
LinkedIn learning also provides coursework in data analytics. You can access LinkedIn learning for free by getting an online MyLink card from the Houston Public Library and logging into LinkedIn learning through the Houston Public Library organization account.
Citation:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Research Scientists,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm (visited November 10, 2020).
