In demand jobs: What does it take to become a data analyst?

Our everyday lives are deeply connected to some form of technology. In fact, 40% of the world’s population has access to the internet, and 5 billion people own a mobile device. Just in the past decade, technology has given us wearables, mobile banking, and online booking platforms. These were once foreign concepts to us, but technology has made them possible. Now, it even influences how we move and how we make decisions as consumers. Ads of brands or products that we recently searched for online or talked about with friends immediately show on our social media feed or even on ad spaces of sites we visit. This demonstrates how businesses value big data.

February 7, 2023
| Share:
Back to News & Events

Big data is information too large or complex for traditional data processing methods to analyze. Data analysts are then needed to collect, clean, and interpret data to answer a question or solve a problem. They can work in many industries such as finance, criminal justice, science, medicine, and government. In business, for example, one of the many roles data analysts have is to process data sets for the company to gain a more comprehensive view into their processes, and use valuable insights about their customers’ interests and behaviors. This is where targeted ad campaigns come in, which give businesses a bang for their buck if used wisely.


In 2022, more than 50% of businesses in the world see data analytics as a vital component in their operations. The increasing amount of data created a higher demand for qualified data analysts, and this will most likely continue to strengthen in the years to come.


What does it take to become a data analyst?

Data analysis is evolving fast, and data analysts are constantly learning and advancing their skills to keep their competitive edge. As the demand for the profession continues to rise, it is crucial to choose the right school to prepare for the job.


Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC), the Philippines’ premier digital-first college, offers B.S. Information Technology Major in Data Analytics, a 3-year and 2-term course, if a student takes on 15 units per term, equivalent to 5 subjects. Its curriculum is based on the current needs and wants of the industry, empowering students to develop key technical skills and the ability to manage and to effectively communicate with peers.


MMDC works with the best of the best in the IT industry and academe to give their students the highest quality education. Using the Problems, Projects, and Cases (PPC) learning model, students will have the opportunity to apply theories learned in lectures and synchronous sessions in actual, real-world situations in the workplace.

In the first year and second year, students will be introduced to courses that establish a foundation for a career in Information Technology. The program develops technical skills as well as the ability to manage projects and people. Early on, students will learn more about the industry and be trained to meet its demands. Courses include Introduction to Data Analytics, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, Programming, and Database Principles and Applications to name a few.


Students will then focus solely on their chosen specialization in their third and fourth years. For budding data analysts, course offerings include Machine Learning and Data Mining. But to be a good data analyst, one should not simply know how to procure information. MMDC provides guidance on how to present information and data in a creative and digestible way. Students will also be given training on preparing and reporting information for a variety of sectors and departments, such as finance and marketing analytics.


All IT students will also undergo industry Internship and/or a Professional Employment Program where students will be immersed in the workplace to further develop their technical and soft skills.


Earning a degree in Data Analytics is now more accessible. MMDC offers flexible schedules, affordable tuition fees, unlimited access to learning platforms, and can provide students with laptops and pocket Wi-Fi if needed.


To learn more about MMDC, visit https://www.mmdc.mcl.edu.ph/. You may download the program brochure here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. Applications for Term 3 of School Year 2022-2023 will be accepted until March 5, 2023.