All careers
Technology
Data Analyst / Scientist
Turn data into insight that helps organisations make better decisions.
Key skills
StatisticsCoding (SQL/Python)StorytellingCuriosity
Ways in
UniversityApprenticeshipStraight into work
Typical prerequisites
- Maths helpful; data apprenticeships Level 4–7 available
Alternative routes
- Business analyst
- Actuary
Route milestones
- 1
Degree / apprenticeship
Around year 0–3
- 2
Junior analyst
Around year 2–4
- 3
Data scientist
Around year 4–7
- 4
Head of data
Around year 8+
Progression: Analyst → senior → data scientist / manager.
Indicative pay bands
Starting out£26,000 – £34,000
Experienced£45,000 – £65,000
Senior / top end£70,000 – £110,000
Indicative example estimates compiled October 2026 for planning conversations only. Pay varies by region, employer, sector and hours. Always verify with official sources such as the National Careers Service.
Verify on National Careers ServiceContribution & impact
Evidence-based decisions in health, climate, business and government.