The Bureau of Labor Statistics has a beautiful way of describing systems analysts. They define them as people who use computers to get things done. In other words, they usually are the decision makers on not only what computers and software to buy, but how to integrate possible disparate systems and make them work together. Not surprisingly, for those so familiar with computers, many got started with a distance degree from an online college.

In more technical terminology, computer systems analysts use information technology to help enterprises of all sizes achieve their goals. They may design and develop new computer systems by choosing and configuring hardware and software, or they may devise ways to apply existing systems’ resources to additional tasks.

Most systems analysts work with specific types of computer systems, such as business, accounting, and financial systems or scientific and engineering systems that vary with the kind of organization. Analysts who specialize in helping an organization select the proper system hardware and software are often called system architects or system designers. Analysts who specialize in developing and fine-tuning systems often have the more general title of systems analysts.

Employers usually prefer applicants who have at least a bachelors degree. For more technically complex jobs, people with post-graduate degrees are preferred. For jobs in a technical or scientific environment, employers often seek applicants who have at least a bachelors degree in computer science, information science, applied mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences. They also look for applicants with at least a bachelors degree in a business-related field such as management information systems. Increasingly, employers are seeking individuals who have a MBA’s with a concentration in information systems.

Students can go to on campus and online colleges for their degree. It should be noted that many online schools offer programs that are as competitive as brick and mortal schools. Further, as systems analysts are considered a STEM (science, tech, engineering, math) profession, financial aid is available not only through standard federal and state resources, but also one can get S-STEM scholarships from the National Science Foundation and from professional societies and for-profit corporations.

With experience, systems analysts get promoted to senior or lead analyst. Those who possess leadership ability and good business skills also become computer and information systems managers or even executive positions such as chief information officer. If staying inside a corporate structure isn’t one’s ultimate goal, many find lucrative careers as independent consultants and/or starting their own computer consulting firms.

The average salary of a systems analyst is in the $75,000 range. The upper 10% of analysts earn over $110,000. With the occupation come a number of highly attractive benefits, including insurance, retirement and investment programs, education packages and other perks. Growth in the field is also expected to be faster than average at over 20% for the next decade.