Systems analyst

You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in a subject like:

• computer science
• information management systems
• business information systems
• software development and engineering
• maths and operational research

You could also search for courses accredited by techskills , which works with employers to offer training that meets the requirements of the IT industry.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:

• Business Analyst Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Digital and Technology Solutions Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
• Systems Engineer Level 7 Apprenticeship
• Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship

These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete and combine work-based training with academic study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

You could work as an assistant analyst, programmer or software developer and move into systems analysis through further work-based training and promotion.

Career Tips

You'll find it useful to have an understanding of agile project management methods .

Professional and Industry Bodies

While working, you may find it helpful to get an industry certification to demonstrate your skills and expertise.

Further Information

You can find out more about working and training in computing from The Chartered Institute for IT and techskills .

As a systems analyst, you could:

• work with employers and clients to understand what they need
• analyse existing technology and identify issues and problems
• work out the costs and time needed to complete projects
• collaborate with IT architects and programmers to plan and build systems
• work with testers at each stage of development
• continue to run checks after the new or upgraded system goes live
• document the decisions and steps taken during development
• write technical guides for new systems

You could work in an office, at a client's business or from home.