Computer systems analysts manage IT solutions to drive business goals.
Computer systems analysts are the "big picture" thinkers in IT. Armed with an understanding of business and technology, these professionals analyze an organization's current computer systems & procedures and recommend strategic changes to increase productivity, reduce costs, and accomplish other business goals. Many systems analysts are skilled developers who design and code computer systems updates personally or lead the development team hands-on. In contrast, other analysts without a programming background will liaise with software developers to implement changes.
The systems analyst's prime directive is to maximize an organization's IT spend's return on investment (ROI). Mission-critical activities include monitoring computer system performance, finding and procuring new technologies based on cost-benefit analyses, designing and developing new computer systems, and working closely with users to optimize performance and troubleshoot problems post-implementation.
Universities and private computer schools offer a range of systems analyst training and degree programs. Compare the top-rated systems analyst training programs online and in your area below.
a.k.a. IT Systems Analyst | Business Systems Analyst | Computer Information Systems Analyst (CISA) | SysAnalyst
Computer Systems Analyst Skills & Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day duties and in-demand skill sets for computer systems analysts include the following. Systems analysts:
- Work closely with managers and end-users to define systems requirements and business goals.
- Analyze the effectiveness of computer systems and develop strategies to improve IT productivity.
- Assist in the design & development of new computer applications and enhancements to existing apps.
- Recommend initiatives to increase the ROI of an organization's information technology expenditures.
- Perform cost-benefit analyses for potential computer system upgrades to support purchase decisions.
- Create systems models, diagrams, and charts to guide system developers and engineers.
- Provide orientation and training sessions to end-users for new and modified computer systems.
- Assist in the deployment, customization, and post-implementation troubleshooting of new systems.
- Rather than deep expertise about every piece of technology, systems analysts need a top-level understanding of how IT processes and components (such as hardware, software & networks) interact to further business objectives.
Computer Systems Analyst Salary
According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer systems analysts in the U.S. is $102,000.
Here are the average salaries for computer systems analysts and related careers:
| Systems Analyst Career Path | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Junior Computer Systems Analyst | $66,000 |
| E-Commerce Analyst | $82,000 |
| Business Analyst | $84,000 |
| Clinical Systems Analyst | $88,000 |
| Information Systems Analyst | $94,000 |
| Financial System Analyst | $97,000 |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $99,000 |
| ERP Business Analyst | $101,000 |
| Software Systems Analyst | $101,000 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $102,000 |
| Senior Computer Systems Analyst | $124,000 |
These are the highest-paying cities for computer systems analysts:
| U.S. City | Computer Systems Analyst Salary |
|---|---|
| San Jose, California | $166,000 |
| Idaho Falls, Idaho | $160,000 |
| San Francisco, California | $147,000 |
| Ogden, Utah | $131,000 |
| Seattle, Washington | $130,000 |
| Boulder, Colorado | $128,000 |
Most systems analysts work in salaried, full-time positions. The hourly wage for computer systems analysts ranges from $40 to $90 per hour, depending on the professional's skill set, industry, location, and experience level. Top-tier computer system analysis consultants can charge upwards of $150/hour.
Deep dive comparison of systems analyst salaries.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | Analysis of Online Job Boards
Computer Systems Analyst Education Requirements
Most employers require systems analyst applicants to have at least a bachelor's degree in computer systems analysis, computer science, computer information systems (CIS), management information systems (MIS), business intelligence, or a similar field of study. As this field deals with both business and IT, some systems analysis positions require a Master of Business Administration (MBA), preferably with a technical focus, such as information systems or technology management. Whichever your learning path, systems analysts should expect to take classes throughout their careers to stay competitive and keep up with emerging and innovative technologies.
Marketable skills to look for in a system analysis education program include business intelligence analysis, technology management, software development, business & information systems administration, data processing, project management, business systems integration, risk management and soft skills. Systems analysts should also learn the business side of their chosen field. For example, a bank may prefer a systems analyst with a background or coursework in finance, while a hospital might fast-track candidates with healthcare knowledge. Keep this in mind when planning your degree program curriculum and electives. The subject matter in computer systems analyst training works well with online learning platforms.
Research and compare the top-rated computer systems analyst training programs in the U.S. and online.
Computer Systems Analyst Jobs
Your specialized training and experience in computer systems analysis qualify you for a range of positions. Browse and apply to:
- Computer Systems Analyst jobs
- Information Security Analyst jobs
- Business Systems Analyst jobs
- Business Intelligence Analyst jobs
- Software Systems Analyst jobs
Systems Analyst Job Outlook
The computer systems analyst job market is expected to grow 14% from 2022 through 2032, much faster than the 3% average for all occupations. As organizations continue to increase their reliance on technology, systems analysts will be hired to design and configure new computer systems across all industries. The proliferation of mobile, cloud, and AI technologies will also drive the need for new computer systems that work well in these domains.
Healthcare is a key sector for system analyst job growth, as government mandates and funding programs continue to drive rapid increases in electronic medical records, e-prescription services, and other forms of healthcare IT that require systems analysts to design custom computer systems.
Computer systems analyst applicants with a background in business will enjoy the best job prospects as this occupation often requires knowledge of an organization’s business needs. Analysts with specialized skills in the field that they are working in will also improve hiring prospects. For example, an educational institution may desire an analyst with a background or coursework in education.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Related Careers
- Software Engineer
- Technology Manager
- IT Project Manager
- IT Security Specialist
- Database Administrator
