Career Snapshot: Business Analyst (General)
- Median Salary (U.S., 2025): ~$98,000–$110,000
- Entry-Level Roles: ~$60,000–$80,000 depending on region and sector
- Senior / Specialized Roles: $100,000–$130,000+ in leadership, analytics, or consulting tracks
- Job Outlook (2024–2034): ~+11% growth, driven by the need for data-driven decision-making across industries
With experience and specialization, business analysts often advance into strategy, consulting, or leadership roles, expanding both salary potential and career impact.
Essential Skills for Success
- Requirements Analysis & Elicitation – capturing and translating stakeholder needs
- Business Process Modeling & Improvement – streamlining systems for efficiency
- Data Analysis & Interpretation – using data to shape strategy and action
- SQL & Database Querying – working with data at the source
- Problem Solving & Critical Thinking – breaking down complex issues logically
- Communication & Stakeholder Management – bridging technical and non-technical teams
- Agile / Scrum Fundamentals – contributing to iterative project delivery
Education Pathways
While many business analysts hold degrees in business, economics, or IT, employers highly value practical skills and certifications that prove job readiness.
For CTE programs, strong implementations include:
- Dual-credit coursework in data analytics, business systems, or IT
- Project-based learning: dashboards, process maps, stakeholder interviews
- School partnerships with local businesses for real-world projects
- Perkins V alignment through stackable credentials and measurable outcomes
Credentials & Certifications
The SchoolDay Academy Business Analyst (General) Pathway (Beginner Level) includes two industry-recognized certificates:
- Microsoft Business Analyst Professional Certificate (6 courses)
- IBM Business Analyst Professional Certificate (8 courses)
These credentials give learners hands-on practice with stakeholder engagement, requirements gathering, data tools, and process analysis, building both skill and credibility.
Related Career Pathways
- Data Analyst / Business Intelligence Analyst
- Management Consultant
- Operations Analyst
- Product Manager
- Strategy / Insights Lead
These roles expand upon the same analytical and problem-solving foundations, with pathways into leadership, specialized industries, or advanced analytics.
How to Get Started
For Students:
- Begin with the SchoolDay Academy Business Analyst (General) Pathway to gain structured learning, credentials, and applied projects.
- Build mini-portfolios by mapping processes, analyzing datasets, and drafting recommendations.
- Practice with tools such as Excel, SQL playgrounds, and visualization software.
- Volunteer to support student groups, clubs, or local nonprofits with process and data analysis.
- After completing the Microsoft Business Analyst Professional Certificate (6 courses) and IBM Business Analyst Professional Certificate (8 courses), pursue internships or entry-level analyst positions.
For CTE Directors and Districts:
- Integrate the SchoolDay Academy Business Analyst (General) Pathway into business, IT, or CTE curriculum.
- Provide students with access to datasets, process mapping tools, and case-based projects.
- Partner with local employers for student internships, mentorship, or capstone critiques.
- Align offerings with Perkins V by ensuring stackable credentials, equity of access, and outcome tracking.
Why SchoolDay Academy Recommends This Pathway
SchoolDay Academy recommends the Business Analyst (General) Pathway because organizations across every sector need professionals who can transform data and processes into actionable insights.
- For students: It provides an entry point to well-paying, versatile roles that exist across industries.
- For schools: It ensures Perkins V alignment, measurable outcomes, and verifiable credentials that matter to both students and employers.
Business analysts are the problem-solvers who bridge data and decisions—ensuring that organizations run smarter, faster, and more effectively. With strong salaries, a healthy job outlook, and cross-industry demand, this is a career pathway that opens doors.
Explore the Business Analyst (General) Pathway on SchoolDay Academy and start building your future today.