What are you looking for

£28,000 Starter

Average salary (a year)

£62,000 Experienced

Average salary (a year)

37 to 40 a week

Typical hours (a week)

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this job

You could get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University

You could do a degree in a relevant subject like:

  • computer science
  • information management systems
  • business information systems
  • maths and operational research

Some universities offer a degree in Information Technology Management for Business. This degree is Tech Industry Gold accredited.

Postgraduate courses

If you have a degree that's not in an IT or computer subject, you could complete a postgraduate course.

You should choose one which focuses on business and computer skills.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

Apprenticeship

You could do either an information systems business analyst higher apprenticeship or a digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeship.

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

Work

You could start with any job in IT or business then build up your experience and qualifications while working.

You could train online or attend short intensive courses with IT training organisations. You'll need some computer and business skills.

What it takes

Find out what skills you will use in this role

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • analytical thinking skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • the ability to work well with others
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • business management skills
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

What you will do

Discover the day to day takes you'll do in this role

Day-to-day tasks

In your day-to-day work, you may:

  • define the business needs of your employer or client
  • create plans to improve or replace an IT system
  • work out the costs and time needed to make your plans work
  • work with programmers and developers to build the systems
  • test to find problems before the system goes live
  • train staff and write instruction manuals for new or upgraded systems

Working environment

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

Career path and profession

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities

With experience, you could:

  • get promoted to senior analyst
  • become a project manager
  • specialise in a particular field, such as finance or retail
  • set up your own business
  • work as a contractor or consultant

Explore a range of careers from all sectors in the careers directory.