Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analyst Overview

Computer systems analysts, often known as system architects and system designers, are those professionals responsible for the designing, testing, and evaluating the performance of systems including, but not limited to, local area networks, wide area networks, intranets, and other data communication systems. Analysts may perform network modeling, analysis and/or planning requiring both hardware and software solutions. They may also be asked to research related products in order to make recommendations on hardware or software needs.

Professionals in this field usually specialize in certain computer systems such as business, accounting, financial systems, or scientific and engineering systems. Since the world of technology is always changing, computer systems analysts must always be up on the current trends in order to succeed in this field.

Computer Systems Analyst Training and Education

Most employers looking to hire for a computer systems analyst position are seeking applicants with a bachelor's degree or higher in computer science, information science, or management information systems (MIS). MIS programs differ from basic computer science programs in their emphasis on business and management oriented coursework. Progressively, more employers show preference for applicants with an MBA and a concentration in information systems. For some analysts, such as webmasters, an associate's degree will suffice; however, advancement is limited.

Computer Systems Analyst Salary Outlook

Median annual earnings of network systems and data communication analysts were $64,600 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $49,510 and $82,630. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,410, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $101,740. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of network systems and data communications analysts in May 2006 are shown below:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 29% job growth in the career of computer systems analysts, thus, career outlook for this profession is obviously very promising.

Career Fields and Specializations

More and more computer systems analysts are employed on temporary or contract basis. Many more are self-employed, choosing to work as independent contractors and consultants. Numerous companies choose to bring contract analysts in on a case by case basis, choosing to hire out for anywhere from a few months to 2 years in order to complete specific projects according to specific skill sets, thus saving time normally lost on job training. These systems are configured in a variety of ways that can range from local office-to-office connections to global networks, voicemail, and multinational organizations' email systems.

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