Computer Systems Analyst

How To Become A Computer Systems Analyst

As the world becomes more technologically advanced, organizations will require more employees with extensive knowledge of computers and information systems. One career path for students interested in technology is a computer systems analyst. To help you better understand this profession, Fairfax University of America, based in Virginia near Washington, D.C., provides an overview of the position and explains how a computer science degree can help you pursue this career.

What Is a Computer Systems Analyst?

The primary responsibility of a computer systems analyst is to examine the current technological resources and processes at their business and devise strategies to enhance operations. They frequently connect with information technology (IT) employees to determine how computer systems function and then present their findings to executive teams. These professionals are sometimes called system architects and may work in various settings, including government agencies, financial firms, and insurance companies.

Tasks for a computer systems analyst depend on their specific industry and role. Someone who works mostly with engineering systems may have significantly different duties compared with a person who manages computers for government use. Some of the general responsibilities of these employees include:

• Compare different software, systems, and innovative technologies to select and implement the best option for their organizations
• Customize configuration and installation for new systems
• Draft instruction manuals and train teams on how to use applications
• Estimate how much computing power, memory, and storage a system needs to support the company’s efforts
• Meet with executives and managers to figure out how IT systems function in the business
• Prepare blueprints for engineers and programmers to guide their construction of systems
• Test computer systems to ensure they work as anticipated
• Troubleshoot issues with computer systems as they arise
• Update existing systems to increase their functionality
• Use data modeling and similar techniques to develop computer systems and review processes

How Computer Systems Analysts Can Advance Their Careers

Jobs for computer systems analysts can be quite rewarding from a financial standpoint. Researchers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) state that the median yearly salary for these professionals is approximately $99,270. However, the skills computer systems analysts develop may allow them to seek other job opportunities in the IT sector. Consider the following advanced career paths for computer systems specialists:

• Network architect: These computer professionals conduct all tasks associated with designing networks, including Intranets, local area networks (LANs), and wide area networks (WANs). They also investigate the latest developments in data sharing to ensure their organization’s networks stay up to date.
• Software developer: Before programmers execute code for programs, software developers create the applications and systems. Although they do not generally write code, these professionals still need basic knowledge of the skill to determine how their software will work when implemented.
• Computer and information systems manager: This advanced managerial position involves supervising the technological functions of a business. In some ways, the computer and information systems manager is an umbrella term for any computer professional overseeing applications and systems, from chief information officers (CIOs) to IT directors.

Why Study at Fairfax University of America?

If a career as a computer systems analyst sounds intriguing, consider applying to the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) degree program at Fairfax University of America. This program provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge of computer science, enabling them to design and employ solutions to information systems challenges in numerous business settings. Students also gain insight into computer science specializations such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and networking.

Besides the computer science degree, our School of Computer and Information Systems features other programs for those interested in becoming computer systems analysts. For instance, you can earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in management information systems or a master’s in data analytics.

Attain Your Computer Science Degree

Begin your journey toward a career as a computer systems analyst with the flexible, business-centered instruction in computer science at Fairfax University of America. As a non-profit academic institution, we deliver high-quality degree programs with affordable tuition and cost, making higher education possible for a diverse group of students. Our Virginia location in the epicenter of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area brings students close to good internships and immediate job opportunities – not to mention iconic historical landmarks.

You can request information online today to learn more about the BSCS degree or our other programs.