Careers in business intelligence

Business intelligence careers require both hard and soft skills, which can be acquired through education and experience. Here is a look at skills needed in these in-demand specialties:

• Technical skills can include knowledge of general programming languages like Python and C++ and data-specific coding systems like SQL and R.
• Software knowledge is also essential, especially in BI platforms like Tableau, Oracle BI or SAS Analytics.
• Math and statistics are important for all BI jobs, especially those involving modeling and forecasting.
• Knowledge of industry-specific processes can be extremely helpful. The nuances and requirements for specific business operations can guide analysis and include necessary variables during research.
• Communication skills are vital for all BI specialties. Regardless of the subject of the analysis, BI analysts will always need to present findings to company decision-makers concisely.
• Critical-thinking skills supply the requisite problem-solving skills to guide analysis and help interpret data in a useful way.

A combination of postsecondary education, internships, self-study and on-the-job experience is necessary to gain the diverse skills needed to succeed in business intelligence.

A computer systems analyst collects data and studies IT-related processes for a company. A computer systems analyst looks at existing systems and finds ways to cut costs and increase efficiency. They can also deploy new tools, such as AI software, to automate specific functions. 

A computer systems analyst might suggest and test new systems, processes or hardware to see whether they improve the current IT structure. They then create presentations and instructions so non-technical staff can use these tools effectively.

As of May 2025, computer systems analysts earned between $67,340 and $167,710, with a median wage of $105,850, according to BLS. They typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like computer science.

Because almost every industry relies on digital infrastructure for daily operations, the demand for specialists in this field is projected to grow 8% between 2025 and 2035.

Salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of University of Phoenix. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. University of Phoenix does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.

BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2025-2035, are published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates.

Financial analysts are data analysts who study the money-related aspects of a business. This BI-based career may involve reviewing current financial statements and identifying areas for improvement. Financial analysts can focus on investments, asset allocation or the expenditures of daily business operations.

Although candidates can qualify for a financial analyst job with an accounting degree, the two professions differ. Accountants focus on record-keeping, reporting, compliance and budgeting. Financial analysts, on the other hand, look for ways to increase profits, decrease spending and invest income and assets more wisely. Degrees in finance or business can also help candidates qualify for this BI specialty.

As of May 2025, qualified financial analysts earned between $63,720 and $180,860, with a median wage of $102,740, according to BLS.

Demand for financial analysts is projected to grow 7% between 2025 and 2035.

Management analysts focus on improving a company’s operations, organization and decision-making processes through data-driven strategies. This is a broad data analyst career that can overlap with other BI specialties. For example, some management analysts may work on projects that involve financial analysis or higher-level operations research.

Specialists in this field aim to improve management decision-making or specific aspects of operations. For example, some BI professionals may concentrate on an area like inventory or human resources management. Others vary their focus from project to project.

Management analysts earned between $60,640 and $171,640 in May 2025, with a median wage of $101,860 according to BLS.

This field is projected to grow 10% between 2025 and 2035.

Market research analysts use consumer data to help companies understand and define their target market better. Market research analysts use existing data to identify trends and create forecasts. This can be invaluable for planning the development and release of a new product or service.

Professionals in this specialty may also assess the effectiveness of current outreach or advertising campaigns using marketing analytics. As with all BI specialties, part of the job involves presenting findings in a non-technical report.

As of May 2025, market research analysts earned between $43,390, and $155,480, with a median wage of $78,760, according to BLS.

Demand for qualified applicants is projected to grow 7% between 2025 and 2035.

A starting point on the journey to a career in business intelligence may be a Bachelor of Science in Business degree program, which imparts fundamental business skills. A statistics, math or computer science degree can also be useful for those interested in focusing on the technical aspects of BI.

Undergraduate or postgraduate certificate programs can effectively supplement knowledge in business or technical areas by focusing on the basics of a target subject.

Another option is to get an internship or entry-level job tou can learn the skills through hands-on experience.