Depending on your desired career track, a data analyst degree could help you build skills employers want to see.
For Paulitia Sheldon, a data analytics instructor at Southern New Hampshire University, a degree is important – not just for the credential, but as a way to establish a lifelong habit of exploration and learning.
"One thing I tell students is that these programs give you a terrific foundation of knowledge you need to succeed," Sheldon said. "However, as with most things, to differentiate, you have to commit to yourself that you will keep learning. There is so much information and places online you can practice and grow your skills. I think that is how you continue to separate from others. Find what you love and do it well."
For some, like SNHU data analytics student Maria Corral, finding what she loved took years of reinvention.
"After 10 years [as a clinical research assistant], I still felt that I needed to grow more professionally to put into practice all my knowledge in this field," Corral said.
Eventually she took that skillset to a university, where she was hired as an associate research scientist for a research group. In that capacity, she was suddenly expected to learn more about data information and technology. What may have seemed an obstacle to some became a game-changing opportunity.
"I decided to study to be more knowledgeable in this field. [So] I applied [at SNHU]. When I was notified that I was accepted I was very happy, and I think this was a big accomplishment for me because it opened up a new path in my professional career."