Computer Systems Analysts
Computer systems analysts improve existing computer systems. They also plan and develop new systems.
Systems analysts help organizations redesign their computer systems. Sometimes they add only a few software programs to make better use of computers. At other times, they design entirely new software systems. Analysts often specialize in business, science, or engineering systems.
Computer Systems Analysts are in the Information Technology career cluster and the Programming and Software Development pathway.
Quick Facts
Wages: |
Well above the statewide median
$36.50 / hour Read more about wages |
Outlook: |
Percent Growth
14.9% Above statewide average Read more about outlook |
Education & Training: |
Bachelor's degree is common. |
On the Job: |
Work Activities
Assess your skills |
Job Title Examples: |
Business Systems Analyst,
Computer Specialist,
Data Processing Systems Analyst
See more job title examples |
Source: Minnesota Department of Education, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, and CareerOneStop.
Wages & Outlook
Wages
Wages vary by employer. The federal government and computer systems design companies pay some of the highest wages.
An increasing number of computer systems analysts work on short-term contracts. This means they may work for several companies over the course of a year. If analysts do not have new jobs lined up, they may experience periods of unemployment. As a result, their wages may be lower than those given here.
Full-time computer systems analysts usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include health insurance, paid vacation, and sick leave. Some employers also pay tuition for computer training courses and offer a retirement plan.
View the Regional Wage Comparison Chart for:
Employment
In Minnesota, about 9,004 computer systems analysts work in this medium-sized occupation.
Major employers:
- Computer systems design companies
- Finance and insurance agencies
- Information services companies
Outlook
Much of the demand for systems analysts is the result of advances in computer technology. New computers can accomplish more difficult tasks and process more information. As a result, businesses are upgrading their computer systems or adding new systems. This contributes to the need for systems analysts.
Growth in this occupation will be driven by very rapid growth in the computer and data processing services industry. This is expected to be one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. economy. Demand will also result from the need to replace employees who are promoted to other positions or who retire.
| Employment | Employment Change | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| Minnesota | 12,819 | 14,733 | 1,914 | 14.9% |
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| Central Minnesota | 267 | 304 | 37 | 13.9% |
| Northeast Minnesota | 259 | 332 | 73 | 28.2% |
| Northwest Minnesota | 221 | 253 | 32 | 14.5% |
| Southeast Minnesota | 448 | 511 | 63 | 14.1% |
| Southwest Minnesota | 152 | 158 | 6 | 3.9% |
| Seven County Mpls-St Paul, MN | 11,490 | 13,132 | 1,642 | 14.3% |
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.
On the Job
Overview
Computer systems analysts improve existing computer systems. They also plan and develop new systems.
Computers are not "one size fits all," especially when it comes to business. Different companies have different needs. For example, graphic design and advertising firms need computers with a lot of internal memory to handle multimedia software. Artists can't wait two minutes for each image to load. Companies that sell products through the Internet need large servers to store information and process orders. The point is, every business has different needs for their computer systems.Systems analysts help organizations redesign their computer systems. Sometimes they add only a few software programs to make better use of computers. At other times, they design entirely new software systems. Analysts often specialize in business, science, or engineering systems.
Systems analysts begin projects by gathering information. They discuss an organization's needs with its managers and staff. Once the goals are clear, analysts determine if they need to design a new software system. If they do, they begin by breaking the list of needs into separate programmable procedures. Next, analysts plan the processing steps the program will follow. They prepare charts and diagrams that show how the parts of the program work together. Analysts prepare reports that show how much the changes will cost. These reports also discuss the benefit organizations can expect from those changes. Managers use these reports to help decide if the proposed system will be worth the cost.
Once these plans are approved, systems analysts coordinate the upgrade or installation of the computer system. Some systems analysts write programming code. When they have a system that is nearly done, analysts test it on users. They observe staff as they use the system to make sure it performs as planned. They also review computer reports and programs relating to the system to find problems. Analysts then change the programs to correct those problems.
When the system is set up, analysts train staff how to use it. They also write manuals that describe how to use the system. These manuals must be written in terms that managers and other users can understand. In addition, analysts write documentation for the people who will maintain the system. This documentation describes the changes made to the system. Some analysts are employees of the organization where they do the work. These analysts also help staff solve problems with their computers.
Some organizations do not employ programmers. Instead, a single worker called a programmer-analyst is responsible for both systems analysis and programming.
Change happens quickly in the computer field. Thus, systems analysts frequently read manuals and magazines to keep their knowledge up to date. They may also take classes.
Work Activities
The following list of occupational tasks is specific to this career.
- Help staff and users solve computer problems.
- Test and maintain computer programs and systems. Revise programming based on errors found during tests.
- Write computer programs.
- Talk with staff or clients to determine their computer needs.
- Link different computer systems so information can be shared.
- Train staff how to use computer systems.
- Coordinate installation of new computer programs or hardware.
- Create charts and diagrams that show how the programs interact.
- Create and review plans about developing new systems.
- Examine computer reports and test results to find problems.
- Write documentation about program and system procedures.
- Prepare reports for managers about programming costs and benefits for the organization.
- Read materials related to the job.
People in this career perform the following list of tasks, but the tasks are common to many occupations.
- Use computers.
- Make decisions and solve problems.
- Process information.
- Get information needed to do the job.
- Evaluate information against standards.
- Document and record information.
- Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates.
- Organize, plan, and prioritize work.
- Think creatively.
- Update and use job-related knowledge.
- Establish and maintain relationships.
- Identify objects, actions, and events.
- Analyze data or information.
- Schedule work and activities.
- Coordinate the work and activities of others.
- Develop goals and strategies.
- Monitor events, materials, and surroundings.
- Communicate with people from outside the organization.
- Teach others.
- Explain the meaning of information to others.
Working Conditions
In a typical work setting, people in this career:
- Have a moderate level of social contact. They work with staff, but also spend time alone while programming.
- Are responsible for the work outcomes of the people they supervise.
- Work as part of a team.
- Communicate with coworkers and clients daily by telephone, e-mail, and in person.
- Write letters and memos monthly.
- Always work indoors.
- Work somewhat close to other people, such as when sharing office space.
- Are sometimes exposed to distracting noise levels, such as from fans or computer servers.
- Must be exact in their work and be sure all details are done. Errors can slow progress on projects or cause users to lose information.
- Must repeat the same mental tasks over and over.
- Meet strict deadlines weekly.
- Rarely consult a supervisor before making decisions or setting tasks and goals.
- Make decisions weekly that affect other people or the reputation of their employer.
- Usually work at least 40 hours a week.
- May work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines.
- May travel to trade shows, seminars, and trainings.
Interpersonal Relationships
Physical Work Conditions
Work Performance
Hours/Travel
Physical Demands
In a typical work setting, people in this career:
- Sit for long periods of time.
- Repeat the same movements.
- Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
- See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
- Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
- Understand the speech of another person.
- Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
- See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
- See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
- Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
- Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
- Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
- Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
- Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
People in this career frequently:
It is important for people in this career to be able to:
It is not as important, but still necessary, for people in this career to be able to:
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
Education & Training
Preparation
To work as a computer systems analyst, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or GED; and
- have a bachelor's degree.
Education after high school
Most new computer systems analysts have at least a bachelor's degree. In the past, formal training was not important and analysts learned on the job. Now, with increasingly complex computing systems and a growing number of college-trained applicants, a bachelor's degree is the usual way to prepare.
The most common areas of study are computer science, information science, and management information systems (MIS). However, you can have a bachelor's degree in any area as long as you take computer courses.
Work experience
Some people prepare through work experience. You can work your way up through computer jobs, learning new skills at each one. Eventually, you have enough knowledge to move into a systems analyst position. You can also develop advanced computer skills in other occupations and then transfer over to systems analysis. For example, an accountant may become a systems analyst who specializes in accounting systems.
You should consider participating in an internship while in college. An internship is usually part of a four-year degree program. It offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. It also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.
On-the-job training
New analysts usually receive on-the-job training. It typically lasts up to one year. During training you work under the guidance of experienced analysts. You get more independence and responsibility as you gain knowledge and experience.
Because of the fast changing nature of this field, employers often offer training in the newest computer technologies, languages, and applications.
Military training
Some branches of the military train people to be computer systems specialists or officers. For specialists, training lasts from seven to 13 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job. Computer systems officers need a bachelor's degree to enter this military occupation. They receive most of their training on the job.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Information Technology
- Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)
Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.
- Bioinformatics
- Computer Engineering Technology
- Computer Programming
- Computer Science
- Computer Systems Analysis
- Computer Systems Networking and Administration
- Information Science
- Information Technology
- Management Information Systems
- Mathematics
- Medical Informatics
- Web Page and Multimedia Design
- Webmaster and Web Management
Level of Education
The table below lists the level of education attained by a subset of workers in this occupation. The workers surveyed were between age 25 and 44.
| Education level attained | Percentage of workers in this occupation* |
|---|---|
| Less than high school diploma | 1 |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 6 |
| Some college, no degree | 17 |
| Associate degree | 11 |
| Bachelor's degree | 45 |
| Master's degree | 19 |
| Doctoral (Ph.D.) or professional degree | 2 |
* National data for computer systems analysts (SOC 15-1121).
Helpful High School Courses
In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum may be different from your state's graduation requirements.
You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
- Computer Applications
- Computer Programming
- Computer Science
- Keyboarding
- Network Technology
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
Skills
People in this career need to:
- Read and understand written information.
- Listen to others, understand, and ask questions.
- Express ideas clearly when speaking or writing. Be able to explain technical concepts to people who do not have a technical background.
- Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
- Identify problems and review information. Develop, review, and apply solutions.
- Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
- Determine how a system should work. Study how changes in conditions affect outcomes.
- Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
- Develop rules or follow guidelines for arranging items.
- Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
- Think of new ideas or original and creative ways to solve problems.
- Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
- Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
- Identify ways to measure and improve system performance.
- Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
- Make sense of information that seems without meaning or organization.
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.
- Use math skills to solve problems.
- Manage the time of self and others.
- Check how well one is learning or doing something.
- Look for ways to help people.
- Be aware of others' reactions and change behavior in relation to them.
- Use several methods to learn or teach new things.
- Persuade others to approach things differently.
- Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
- Test and inspect products, services, or processes. Evaluate quality or performance.
- Design equipment and technology to meet user needs.
- Determine the tools and equipment needed to do a job.
- Install equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
- Analyze user needs and requirements when designing products.
- Repair machines or systems.
- Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
- Operate and control equipment.
- Write computer programs.
- Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
- Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
- Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
Communicate
Reason and Problem Solve
Use Math and Science
Manage Oneself, People, Time and Things
Work with People
Work with Things
Perceive and Visualize
Knowledge
People in this career need knowledge in the following areas:
- Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of computer hardware and software.
- English Language: Knowledge of the meaning, spelling, and use of the English language.
- Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of providing special services to customers based on their needs.
- Mathematics: Knowledge of the rules and uses of numbers. Areas of knowledge include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics.
- Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of how to build machines, buildings, and other things. Also includes knowledge of how to use computers, machines, and tools to do work more usefully.
- Administration and Management: Knowledge of managing the operations of a business, company, or group.
Interests
People in this career are people who tend to:
- Consider good working conditions important. They like jobs offering steady employment and good pay. They want employment that fits their individual work style. They may prefer doing a variety of tasks, working alone, or being busy all the time.
- Consider achievement important. They like to see the results of their work and to use their strongest abilities. They like to get a feeling of accomplishment from their work.
- Consider recognition important. They like to work in jobs which have opportunities for them to advance, be recognized for their work, and direct and instruct others. They usually prefer jobs in which they are looked up to by others.
- Consider independence important. They like to make decisions and try out ideas on their own. They prefer jobs where they can plan their work with little supervision.
- Consider support from their employer important. They like to be treated fairly and have supervisors who will back them up. They prefer jobs where they are trained well.
- Have investigative interests. They like work activities that have to do with ideas and thinking. They like to search for facts and figure out solutions to problems mentally.
- Have conventional interests. They like work activities that follow set procedures, routines, and standards. They like to work with data and detail. They prefer working where there is a clear line of authority to follow.
- Have realistic interests. They like work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They like to work with plants, animals, and physical materials such as wood, tools, and machinery. They often prefer to work outside.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
Tools & Technology for Computer Systems Analysts
Tools
| Desktop computers | Personal digital assistant PDAs or organizers
|
Technology
Access software
| Financial analysis software
|
Licensing / Certification
Certification Details
Certifications are examinations that test or enhance your knowledge, experience or skills in an occupation or profession.
There are 357 certifications related to this career.
Licensing Details
No State of Minnesota license requirements are found for this career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and CareerOneStop.
Jobs
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Hiring Practices
Employers prefer applicants who have at least a bachelor's degree. They generally prefer candidates with a computer-related degree. However, applicants with other majors and computer experience are also hired. Many employers promote programmers or other computer professionals within their company.
For more complex jobs, employers prefer to hire applicants who have a graduate degree. Sometimes a master's degree in computer science or engineering is enough. A Ph.D. is required for jobs in research laboratories or universities. It is difficult to qualify for this type of position with only a bachelor's degree. However, requirements for computer jobs vary because employers' preferences depend upon the work to be done.
Advancement Opportunities
Beginning computer systems analysts start with small projects and are supervised by experienced analysts. As they gain experience, they may be put in charge of increasingly larger and more complex systems. Those who have good people skills may advance to supervisory positions. For some management positions, a bachelor's or master's degree in business administration may be required. Some analysts become consultants.
Job Title Examples
Business Systems Analyst, Computer Specialist, Data Processing Systems Analyst, Information Technology Consultant (IT Consultant), Information Technology Specialist, Systems Analyst, Computer Systems Consultant, Programmer Analyst, Systems Engineer
Similar Careers
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If you are looking to broaden your job search,
these careers require similar skills. Click on the names to link to their career profile.
Computer Engineers
Computer Operators
Computer Programmers
Computer Security Specialists
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Similar Military Careers
Below are similar military careers you may be interested in reading about. Click on the names to link to their career description.
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Related Industries
Below are industries related to Computer Systems Analysts you may be interested in reading about. Employers in these industries typically hire
Computer Systems Analysts. Click on the names to link to their industry profile.
Banking And Finance
Business Management And Support Services
Computers And Electronic Products
Education
Hospitals
Information And Internet Services
Instruments And Medical Devices
Insurance
Investments
Paper Products
Professional And Consulting Services
Research And Development
Software And Computer Services
Telecommunications
Truck Transportation
Utilities
Wholesale Trade
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.
