Business Analyst and Data Scientist: In-Demand Careers

In today’s world, where data is as valuable as gold, Business Analysts and Data Scientists have become two of the most in-demand professions across industries. If you're a Thai student considering pursuing a career in these fields, this article will guide you on what you need to know.

Before diving into these highly sought-after careers, let’s take a moment to look at the philosophy of Jack Ma (founder of Alibaba) on planning for the future. He famously shared his perspective on planning using the 30:30:30 rule:

1. The first 30: Focus on what the world will need in the next 30 years.

2. The second 30: Focus on people who are approaching 30 years of age, as they will be the leaders of the future.

3. The final 30: Focus on companies with around 30 employees because they are more agile and better equipped to adapt and drive change, especially with the use of technology.

Why do companies with around 30 employees perform so well? It’s because these smaller companies are nimble and use technology to drive change both in terms of quality and speed. By having employees with various expertise, these companies can make faster decisions than larger organizations.

Let’s return to the first 30 rule—how do we know what the world will need in 30 years? The key is to look at the past. Evolution and change are always connected. For instance, 50 years ago, Thailand was a major manufacturing hub, leading to a high demand for engineers. 20 years ago, the aviation industry grew rapidly, creating demand for professionals in the aviation sector. Similarly, 10 years ago, the rise of the IT industry and the internet led to a surge in demand for IT graduates and computer engineers.

Currently, as data becomes increasingly important, Business Analysts and Data Scientists have emerged as the most coveted professions, as they are the ones who interpret and process information to help businesses succeed.

Who Can Become a Data Scientist?

If you’ve completed a degree in Computer Science, Software Development, Statistics, or Mathematics, a career as a Data Scientist might be for you. This position is best suited for individuals who enjoy conducting research, working with data, and are comfortable with calculations and numbers. Another key skill for this role is strong communication, as explaining complex data in a simple way is crucial.

Who Can Become a Business Analyst?

Business Analysts have a broader range of qualifications. Individuals with degrees in MBA, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or any other fields that involve calculations can also take on this role. Business Analysts are perfect for those who want to understand the business deeply, love planning, strategy development, and project management.

Business Analyst and Data Scientist: Growing Careers

Though these roles are relatively new in Thailand, they have been in demand internationally for some time. Many universities now offer specialized programs for those who want to pursue a career as a Business Analyst or Data Scientist. These programs are available at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and provide the necessary expertise to help students thrive in these fields.

By pursuing postgraduate studies in these specialized fields, you’ll not only gain valuable skills but also increase your chances of working with international companies both in Thailand and abroad.

If you’re interested in studying Business Analytics or Data Science, don’t hesitate to contact IDP. We offer free advice and assistance for students looking to study abroad. Let us guide you towards the right path to pursue your career dreams!