Computer Systems Analysts
Education
| Fast Facts* | |
|---|---|
| Recommended Degree Level | Bachelor |
| Salary, Typical | $79,680 |
| Salary Range | |
| Number of Jobs, 2012 | 482,040 |
| Annual Job Growth Rate | 3.7% |
| Job Openings per Year (est.) | 22,250 |
What's Needed:
- Computer systems analysts often have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or business administration. Since the field spans business and technology, degrees in other fields are acceptable if they include programming and other computing skills.
- Some employers will consider an associate degree in combination with work experience.
- Senior positions may require an MBA or graduate technical degree.
- Systems analysts advance through continuous technical learning, experience, and deepening of their business knowledge.
What you study:
Study topics include:
- Systems analysis and design
- Database management
- Programming
- Web technologies
- Networking technologies
- Information security
- Business administration
Video Overview
Quickly highlights what computer system analysts do in their daily work. Slightly out of date but still a helpful summary. Created for the US Department of Labor.
A Day in the Life
As a computer systems analyst for a busy insurance company, you represent IT to the business and are often the voice of reason.
This morning, you meet with the IT manager to discuss his proposal to move financial applications from the premises to the cloud. This means that employees would access the system through a Web browser and that sensitive information would be stored off site. A third-party cloud could potentially save money but also raises cyber security issues. You brief the manager on the security implications and tactfully suggest a formal risk analysis. Although he still favors the cloud, he agrees and thanks you for providing a reality check.
As the finance department needs more IT resources, you head to the manager's office to discuss short-term options. You share your cost projection for additional storage prior to a decision on the cloud solution. She agrees to the expense, and you plan to meet in two weeks to review the new configuration's performance. In the meantime, you will monitor the system daily for issues.
As the finance department needs more IT resources, you head to the manager's office to discuss short-term options. You share your cost projection for additional storage prior to a decision on the cloud solution. She agrees to the expense, and you plan to meet in two weeks to review the new configuration's performance. In the meantime, you will monitor the system daily for issues.
Your last stop is the conference room to train sales agents on a new software module. You have already created the slide presentation and Web resource page and set up computer stations for each participant. You arrive early to check equipment and then open class with a joke to put the students at ease. People skills are just as crucial to your job as technical expertise.
Certifications and Licensing
The value of certification varies by job and industry. Systems analysts in highly technical roles may benefit from technical certification. The IEEE offers the Certified Software Development Associate (CSDA) and the Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP) certifications for candidates in software positions. Also, many technology vendors offer product certifications. Analysts in a specific industry, such as finance, should also consider its certifications or licensing programs.
Job Flexibility
Full-time versus part-time:
Most computer systems analysts work a full-time week that may include frequent overtime. Client emergencies or deadlines sometimes require extended hours on short notice.
Work location:
About 25 percent of computer systems analysts work for computer systems design and similar companies. Finance, insurance, and other industries also employ a high number while other analysts are self-employed. Although they usually have offices or telecommute, analysts often travel to client sites and may stay for an extended length of time.
Recommended Websites
- U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook – The site describes the computer systems analyst as a key interface between IT and business. It highlights the job duties in an organization with sophisticated computing needs and explains how to enter the profession. For a closer look at the systems analyst career, also consult websites within the computing field.
- IEEE Computer Society – The IEEE Computer Society is the international membership organization for computing specialists. The site’s student community section offers several resources for aspiring professionals such as free courses, scholarship listings, and employer information. Job candidates can search a jobs board and learn about IEEE certifications.
- The Computing Research Association – The CRA is a nonprofit focusing on computing research and education. The site’s resources section offers workplace reports that provide valuable information for job candidates, students, and anyone investigating technology fields. A separate student section has a wealth of academic and career resources for all levels.
- Association for Computing Machinery – The ACM is a global professional society for scientific computing and education. The site includes a comprehensive Computing Degrees & Careers section that offers accurate and engaging information. Additionally, the site has a huge library of technical and career publications.