The explosion of artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years has caused some people to question the future of humans in the workforce, especially in tech. The reality is that tech and business thrive on human talent, and the need for it only continues to grow.

In fact, successful AI advancements require active human engagement and oversight. In light of the growing presence of AI, career opportunities in data science, especially those focusing on data analytics, are on the rise.

As technology advances, so do the systems that data specialists need to master. Businesses require skilled data experts who can analyze and organize high volumes of data into creative, evidence-based solutions. 

If you’re interested in a data career in 2025, let’s explore this growing field and examine the skills you need to stand out in a competitive job market. 

Pursuing a Data Analyst Career Path

Data analysis is a critical part of data science that incorporates statistics, computer science, and logic to analyze data and make predictions. This process often involves collecting, organizing, and analyzing large datasets to identify patterns and extract insights that can be used to inform critical business decisions. 

The widespread need for specialists to manage our data means the availability of employment opportunities in a range of industries, including retail, marketing, finance, and healthcare—all with the shared goal of optimizing operations and managing risk.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of data scientists is projected to grow by 36 percent in the coming decade—well above the 4 percent national average. In addition to high rates of employment, data scientists earn a median annual wage of approximately $110,000, which is more than double the median annual wage for all occupations, showcasing how in-demand data experts truly are.

Discover more data analyst career paths in our guide to careers in AI, data, and cybersecurity.

6 Technical Skills Required for Data Analyst Positions

Due to the technical nature of this field, a foundational understanding of certain concrete skills is essential for individuals pursuing a data career. Some of those practical skills employers are looking for include:

1. Data Cleansing
   The process of removing inaccurate, incomplete, or duplicate information, also called data scrubbing, ensures the quality and reliability of the dataset.

2. Data Visualization
   Using data visualization software to present findings as charts, maps, and graphs allows information to be shared and understood.

3. Statistics
   The practical application of statistics on large datasets allows analysts to identify patterns and make meaningful predictions. 

4. Database Management
   Database management systems (DBMS) are where analysts spend most of their time organizing and interpreting datasets.

5. Programming Languages 
   Common languages like SQL, Python, Java, Scala, R, Tableau, and MATLAB are fundamental in database management to manipulate data and extract critical insights.

6. Domain Knowledge
   Industry-specific knowledge provides a contextual understanding of the types of insights and solutions that would be most beneficial.

The Best Soft Skills for Data Analysts

While technical skills are essential for any job, the demand for soft skills continues to grow across industries. A data analyst must do more than process large datasets and instead focus on extracting meaningful, actionable insights. This requires critical thinking, adaptability, and strong communication skills that go beyond technical expertise. Here are some key soft skills that can support and advance your data career:

• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  Data analysts must think critically to utilize data in ways that provide helpful insights. Analysts are expected to devise creative solutions to an organization’s problems. 

• Attention to detail
  Working with data can be tedious. Attention to detail is crucial for avoiding mistakes and maintaining the integrity of the data. 

• Communication 
  Written and verbal communication skills are essential for sharing findings with business leaders, community members, or other officials. This might be done through drafting a formal document or by leading a presentation. 

• Collaboration
  There may be times when analysts need to work with a team to achieve a shared goal. Collaboration can help increase efficiency, prevent errors, and lead to better solutions.

• Project Management
  Meeting deadlines, managing tasks, and reaching goals are all part of the day-to-day responsibilities of data analysts. Well-honed project management skills can help analysts move up the ladder more quickly and gain traction in their careers.

• Ethical Consideration
  Depending on the industry, data analysts could gain access to highly sensitive information. When working with this data, their ethical integrity must be well-grounded. 

Going Beyond the Typical Data Analyst Skills

Sometimes standing out in a career field means taking a step back and pursuing opportunities that make you a more well-rounded candidate. To get you started, here are three traits that will help set you up for a long and successful data career:

1. Stay on top of emerging technologies.
   Expertise in technologies like machine learning and AI might not be essential skills for every data analyst, but a basic understanding can increase your efficiency and set you up for long-term success. 

2. Follow through from beginning to end.
   Prove that you have the knowledge, awareness, and talent to follow the data from start to finish—from problem to idea to data-driven solution. 

3. Continue learning and be adaptable.
   The world of data science is constantly evolving. To stay relevant in this field, be willing to reevaluate your knowledge base, revisit old ideas, and remain curious in the pursuit of new solutions to persistent problems.

Pursue a Data Analyst Career Path at UDallas

A strong educational foundation is key to starting or advancing a data analytics career. For many, that begins with a graduate business degree that builds technical expertise and essential soft skills.

While AI and data play a growing role in our world today, true leadership in these fields requires both analytical skills and moral integrity. At the UDallas College of Business, we are committed to forming leaders who can navigate this new era of technology.

Launching this fall, our MS in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is designed to equip students with the hard skills to succeed and the soft skills to make connections, think critically, and build a resume that goes beyond industry standards.

To learn more about career opportunities in this growing field—and how to position yourself for success—download our guide, A Guide to AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Careers: How to Set Yourself Apart in a Tech-Driven World.

If you are interested in learning more about our future-focused graduate business programs at UDallas, please request more information to get in touch with our admissions team.