Data is the new gold, and data analysis is the key to unlocking its value. In 2023, around 2.5 quintillion bytes of data is generated each day and there are currently over 44 zettabytes of data in the entire digital universe – an almost 500% increase in the past decade. With so much data available, it's more important than ever for businesses to be able to understand and use it to their advantage.

This is where data analysis comes in. Data analysis is the process of collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to identify trends, patterns, and relationships. It's a powerful tool that can help businesses make better decisions, improve their operations, and increase their profits.

Understanding the Shift in Job Landscape

The global job market is currently experiencing a significant transformation, according to the World Economic Forum's "Future of Jobs" report. Due to automation and technological advancements, industries are evolving rapidly, creating a demand for skills that can bridge the gap between traditional and cutting-edge business practices. Business Analytics is the driving force behind this evolution, providing a unique set of skills that empowers professionals to make informed decisions, identify patterns, and develop business strategies based on data-driven insights.

With industries embracing digital transformation and data-driven decision-making, there is a soaring demand for data analysts. According to a recent survey, 94% of businesses say that data analysis is important for their success, and 62% say they are struggling to find qualified data analysts. This statistic is shocking when you consider the earning potential and current and future demand for data analysis skills.

According to a recent report by Salary.com, the average salary for a data analyst is approximately 40% higher than the average global salary, and demand is also growing. According to Indeed, demand for data scientists and data analysts is growing 54% faster than the average for all occupations.

With this rapid growth in the industry, combined with the talent shortfall, there has never been a better time to launch an analytics career or gain analytics skills to expand opportunities in your current career. According to numerous studies and industry reports, such as the "2021 Burtch Works Study" on Data Science and Analytics Professionals' Salaries, professionals with advanced analytics skills, including business analytics, tend to earn higher salaries than those without these skills.

Navigating the Data-Driven Era

In the contemporary landscape, the ability to navigate and transform Big Data into meaningful insights has become an invaluable asset, and this requires a unique mix of technical skills, business skills, and power skills. A data analyst must be able to use programming languages, such as SQL, Python, and R, to analyze large sets of data, but they also require the critical thinking, communication, and business skills to derive insights and communicate those insights to others in compelling dashboards and reports.

A Business Analytics education equips individuals with the essential skills to become data analysts. Students learn how to use programming languages, statistical analysis software, and data visualization tools to analyze large sets of data. They also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to communicate their findings to others in a clear and compelling way.

Data analysts are the influencers of tomorrow. With their versatile skills, they are in high demand across all sectors, from the dynamic realm of marketing to the critical field of healthcare to the cutting-edge landscape of technology. According to the the "2022 Data Science and Machine Learning Market Study" by the Data Science Association, 78% of surveyed organizations, regardless of their industry, consider data analysis skills, a core component of Business Analytics, to be crucial for their business operations.

This is not just a trend; it's a significant shift shaping the employment landscape, making Business Analytics education a strategic investment for those aiming to thrive in today's dynamic job market.

The Future is Now

The future of jobs is already upon us, and those who invest in a Business Analytics education are positioning themselves for success. Nexford University's commitment to providing a dynamic and forward-looking curriculum ensures that students are not just learning for today but are prepared for the challenges and opportunities that the future job market holds.

A Business Analytics education is a passport to the future of work. By acquiring the skills to harness the power of data, individuals can navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape and contribute meaningfully to their organizations. Nexford University's insights into the future of jobs underscore the importance of staying ahead of the curve, making it clear that the value of a Business Analytics education goes beyond the classroom—it's a gateway to a world of opportunities in the data-driven economy.

About the author

Nexford Staff

Nexford’s staff writers help you make the most of your university experience.

We’re based in the US and have teams across the world, including in the UK, Africa and Asia.

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