How To Become A Business Analyst In 2025

How To Become A Business Analyst In 2025

Last Updated on February 6, 2025 by Chukwuemeka Maduka

Business Analysts help companies improve processes, make better decisions, and bridge the gap between business and technology. The demand for skilled BAs is growing, making it a great career choice in 2025.

You don’t need a degree or years of experience to get started. With the right training, hands-on projects, and a recognized certification, you can land your first BA role.

This guide covers:

  • What a Business Analyst does
  • The best path for beginners
  • Business Analyst salaries in the UK
  • The top certifications to get in 2025
  • How to become a Business Analyst without a degree

At LearnWithPride, we provide practical Business Analysis training to help you build real skills and get certified. If you’re serious about starting a BA career, this guide will show you how.

Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

What Does a Business Analyst Do?

Wikipedia defines a business analyst as a person who processes, interprets and documents business processes, products, services and software through analysis of data.

Simply put, a Business Analyst (BA) helps businesses improve their processes, solve problems, and make better decisions.

They work closely with stakeholders to understand business needs, then translate those needs into clear requirements for technical teams.

Their role is very important in ensuring projects stay on track and deliver real value.

Most Business Analysts spend their time gathering and analyzing data, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending solutions.

They document business processes, create reports, and collaborate with teams to ensure smooth project execution.

In some cases, they also support testing and implementation phases to confirm that the final solution meets business goals.

This role exists in almost every industry, including finance, healthcare, retail, and technology as companies rely on Business Analysts to optimize operations and drive growth, making this a high-demand career path.

At LearnWithPride, we offer practical training that helps you develop the core skills needed for this role.

Our program covers real-world scenarios, ensuring you gain hands-on experience in business analysis from day one.

LearnWithPride Business Analysis Training

The LearnWithPride Business Analysis training offers hands-on, industry-focused learning with personalized mentorship, equipping you with the skills and confidence to thrive in business analysis roles.

Access The Training Now!

Best Business Analyst Roadmap for Beginners

How To Become A Business Analyst In 2025

Starting a career as a Business Analyst can feel overwhelming, but with the right roadmap, you can break into the field step by step.

Here’s a clear path to follow:

1. Understand the Role

Before going into business analysis, you need to know what a Business Analyst does and what skills are required.

You might want to take some time to research job descriptions, read case studies, and watch industry videos to get a solid understanding.

Many people assume Business Analysts only work with data, but their job also involves improving business processes and bridging communication gaps between teams.

You can also connect with professionals on LinkedIn or join Business Analysis forums to now how things are really done by those who are ahead of you.

The more you learn about daily responsibilities of a business analyst, the better prepared you’ll be.

2. Develop Core Skills

Business Analysts rely on a mix of technical and soft skills, including:

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Communication and stakeholder management
  • Data analysis and visualization
  • Documentation and report writing
  • Familiarity with tools like SQL, Excel, Power BI, and JIRA

These skills take time to develop, but you can start by working on smaller tasks or projects.

For example, we all have complex problems at one point or the other in our lives and you can practice breaking down problems in your daily life to improve your analytical thinking.

If you’re not comfortable with data, start learning Excel or Google Sheets and work with basic datasets.

Another very important skill you will need is Communication.

You need to be heard and properly understood.

3. Get Proper Training

Self-learning is great, but structured training speeds up the process.

LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis course gives you practical experience, exposure to real projects, and mentorship from industry professionals.

Many beginners struggle to figure out where to start, which is why a guided learning path is so valuable.

A well-structured course ensures you’re not wasting time on outdated or irrelevant information.

Instead of spending months trying to figure things out alone, a mentor can help you avoid common mistakes and build confidence faster.

4. Gain Hands-On Experience

Practical experience is always sticks better than theories.

So, as you learn business analysis, work on personal projects, contribute to open-source initiatives, or take part in case studies.

LearnWithPride offers live project work, helping you build a strong portfolio.

I’ve helped many companies to hire talents and I can tell you from experience that they want to see how you apply your knowledge in real-world situations, not just what you’ve learned theoretically.

If you don’t have work experience, try analyzing a business problem from a company you admire and suggest solutions.

You can also look for internships or volunteer for small businesses to get relevant experience.

5. Earn a Recognized Certification

Certifications help validate your skills. Popular ones include:

While a certification isn’t always required, it can set you apart from other candidates, especially if you’re switching careers.

Some employers use certifications to filter applications, so having one improves your chances of landing an interview.

Make sure you choose a certification that aligns with the type of role you’re aiming for.

6. Apply for Entry-Level Roles

Once you have the skills and training, start applying for Junior Business Analyst or related roles.

Now, if you want to stand out for any role, learn to tailor your resume to that particular role, highlight your projects, and prepare very well for interviews.

Employers want to see results, so include measurable outcomes in your resume (e.g., “Improved process efficiency by 20% through workflow optimization”).

Don’t be discouraged by job descriptions that ask for years of experience.

See, most job descriptions are actually overhyped. So, apply anyway and focus on showing how your skills match the role.

Mock interviews and case study practice can also help boost your confidence before speaking with recruiters.

LearnWithPride Business Analysis Training

The LearnWithPride Business Analysis training offers hands-on, industry-focused learning with personalized mentorship, equipping you with the skills and confidence to thrive in business analysis roles.

Access The Training Now!

Business Analyst Salary in the UK

If you’re exploring how to become a Business Analyst, it’s essential to understand salary expectations at different stages of your career.

Salaries vary based on experience, industry, and location, but Business Analysts generally enjoy strong earning potential and career growth opportunities.

Entry-Level Salaries (£25,000 – £35,000)

As a beginner, you can expect to earn between £25,000 and £35,000 annually, depending on whether you’re in a junior role or entering the field through an internship.

Employers may offer higher salaries if you have a relevant degree, certifications, or practical experience.

At this stage, your responsibilities typically include gathering requirements, assisting with data analysis, and supporting project teams.

Many entry-level analysts also get hands-on exposure to business intelligence tools like Power BI and SQL.

💡 According to Glassdoor (2025), the estimated total pay for a Junior Business Analyst is £33,143 per year in the London area, with an average salary of £30,754 per year, with salaries rising faster in high-demand sectors like finance and tech.

Mid-Level Salaries (£40,000 – £55,000)

After gaining a few years of experience, Business Analysts typically earn between £40,000 and £55,000. At this level, you’ll take on more complex responsibilities, such as:

  • Stakeholder management – working closely with executives and technical teams.
  • Process improvement – optimizing business workflows.
  • Data-driven decision-making – creating detailed reports and recommendations.

Many professionals also begin to specialize in high-demand areas like financial analysis, product management, or AI-driven business solutions, which can further boost their salaries.

Senior-Level Salaries (£60,000 – £80,000+)

With 5+ years of experience, Business Analysts can earn £60,000 to £80,000 or more annually. Senior Business Analysts often:

  • Advise executive teams on company-wide strategies.
  • Lead high-budget projects in digital transformation, fintech, or healthcare analytics.
  • Mentor junior analysts and manage cross-functional teams.

📈 The median Senior Business Analyst (Senior BA) salary in the UK is £77,500 per year, according to job vacancies posted during the 6 months leading to 5 February 2025.

Senior-Level Business Analyst Salaries can exceed £90,000 in specialized industries like finance, consulting, and data-driven enterprises (source: ITJobsWatch 2025).

Factors Affecting Salary

Several factors influence how much a Business Analyst earns:

Industry: Tech, finance, and consulting tend to offer higher salaries than retail or non-profits.
Location: Business Analysts in London and other major cities earn 10–20% more due to market demand.
Certifications & Training: Earning globally recognized certifications, like LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Certification, can boost your earning potential and job prospects.
Experience & Specialization: The more hands-on experience you gain—and the more you specialize in high-demand skills—the higher your salary will be.

Real Career Success: LearnWithPride Alumni

🚀 A LearnWithPride graduate recently secured a Supplier Management Analyst role at Legal & General—one of the UK’s leading financial services companies. With expert-led training and real-world project experience, they transitioned from learning Business Analysis to landing a high-paying job in a competitive industry.

How to Fast-Track Your Business Analyst Career

Business Analysts enjoy strong salary growth, but accelerating your career requires the right training and practical experience.

With LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training, you can:
✔ Gain hands-on experience with real-world projects.
✔ Learn in-demand tools like SQL, Power BI, and Jira.
✔ Earn globally recognized certifications to stand out to employers.

💡 Want to land a high-paying Business Analyst job faster?

LearnWithPride Business Analysis Training

The LearnWithPride Business Analysis training offers hands-on, industry-focused learning with personalized mentorship, equipping you with the skills and confidence to thrive in business analysis roles.

Access The Training Now!

Best Business Analyst Course for Beginners

Choosing the Right Business Analyst Course

Wondering which Business Analyst course is worth your time and money?

The right course sets the foundation for your career, giving you both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience to land your first job.

What Makes a Great Business Analyst Course?

A top-tier Business Analyst course should include:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum – Covers key BA skills like requirements gathering, process mapping, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Hands-on Projects – Includes real-world case studies and live project work.
  • Expert Mentorship – Provides guidance from experienced professionals.
  • Globally Recognized Certification – Boosts credibility in the job market.
  • Flexible Learning Options – Lets you learn at your own pace without disrupting your schedule.

Why LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training Stands Out

If you’re serious about becoming a Business Analyst in 2025, LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training is one of the best choices. It doesn’t just teach theory—it immerses you in real business analysis scenarios so you gain practical experience.

What You’ll Get with LearnWithPride:

  • Hands-on Training – Work on live projects to apply your skills in real business environments.
  • Mentorship from Experts – Learn directly from professionals with years of BA experience.
  • Globally Recognized Certification – Employers trust LearnWithPride’s certification worldwide.
  • Flexible Learning Schedule – Study without quitting your job or disrupting your routine.

Other Business Analyst Course Options

While LearnWithPride offers the most comprehensive training, here are other alternatives:

  • Udemy – Affordable and self-paced but lacks personalized mentorship.
  • Coursera – University-backed courses with academic depth but fewer real-world projects.

When compared, LearnWithPride combines practical experience, mentorship, and globally recognized certification, making it the best choice for anyone serious about becoming a Business Analyst in 2025.


How To Get Business Analyst Certification in 2025

Earning a Business Analyst certification is one of the fastest ways to boost your credibility and land a high-paying role.

In 2025, certifications will be even more valuable as employers look for verifiable skills and real-world experience.

Why Business Analyst Certification Matters

A certification proves you have the knowledge, skills, and structured understanding required to perform in a BA role.

Certified Business Analysts earn 20% more on average than non-certified professionals and have higher chances of securing interviews.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Certified

Step 1: Choose the Right Certification

If you’re a beginner, start with one of these globally recognized BA certifications:

  • LearnWithPride Business Analysis Certification – Great for beginners and professionals
  • Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) – Ideal for professionals with some experience.
  • Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA) – Great for those new to the field.

Step 2: Enroll in a Business Analysis Course

Taking a structured course, like LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training, helps you build the skills needed for certification.

You’ll master process modeling, business requirements gathering, and stakeholder engagement—all key topics on certification exams.

Step 3: Study the Exam Topics

Prepare by focusing on:

  • Business analysis methodologies
  • Process modeling and data visualization
  • Stakeholder management techniques

Step 4: Take the Exam and Get Certified

Once prepared, register for the certification exam. Most exams consist of multiple-choice questions testing both theoretical and practical knowledge.

LearnWithPride Certification Advantage

With LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training, you get:

Comprehensive exam prep materials to help you pass on the first attempt.

Real-world projects that make certification concepts easy to understand.

A globally recognized certification that makes you stand out in job applications.

Ready to Become a Certified Business Analyst?

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll earn a highly respected certification and position yourself for success in 2025.

If you want hands-on training and a certification that gets you hired, enroll in LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Course today!

LearnWithPride Business Analysis Training

The LearnWithPride Business Analysis training offers hands-on, industry-focused learning with personalized mentorship, equipping you with the skills and confidence to thrive in business analysis roles.

Access The Training Now!

How to Become a Business Analyst Without a Degree

You don’t need a degree to become a successful Business Analyst, but you do need to demonstrate the right skills and knowledge.

At Learnwithpride, we’ve seen many professionals enter the industry with backgrounds in different areas and have thrived with the right training and experience.

1. Leverage Your Existing Skills

If you don’t have a formal degree in business analysis or a related field, don’t worry.

Focus on transferable skills you may already have.

Strong analytical abilities, problem-solving skills, and experience with data handling or project management can serve as a solid foundation.

Even soft skills, such as communication and collaboration, are highly valued in this field.

2. Get Hands-On Experience

Even without a degree, hands-on experience can be your biggest asset.

Internships, volunteer work, or taking part in small projects within your current job can help you gain practical experience.

So, seek out opportunities to work alongside business analysts or in project management roles where you can observe and learn on the job.

3. Take a Business Analysis Course

One of the best ways to fill in the knowledge gap is to enroll in a Business Analysis course.

At LearnWithPride, we offer industry-relevant training specifically designed to equip you with the skills and tools needed to become a Business Analyst.

Our course includes practical exercises, live project work, and mentorship that will build your confidence, whether or not you have a formal degree.

4. Build a Strong Network

Networking is crucial in any career. Attend industry events, join business analysis forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.

Building relationships with people already working as Business Analysts can lead to mentorship opportunities and even job offers.

5. Focus on Certifications and Continuous Learning

In the absence of a degree, certifications can play a major role in helping you prove your expertise.

Look into certifications like CBAP or CCBA to show your commitment to the field.

With LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis training, you’ll gain practical skills that will make you a strong candidate for certifications and give you a competitive edge in the job market.

You don’t need a degree to break into the Business Analyst field.

With the right mindset, experience, and certifications, you can position yourself for success. LearnWithPride can help guide you through this journey and support you in developing the skills you need to excel.

Business Analyst Qualifications

To succeed as a Business Analyst, certain qualifications can make a big difference in your career growth. While degrees aren’t always necessary, having the right credentials, skills, and knowledge is crucial.

1. Core Skills

Before looking into certifications or qualifications, make sure you have a strong foundation in key skills such as:

  • Analytical Thinking: Being able to break down complex problems and find efficient solutions is essential.
  • Communication: A Business Analyst bridges the gap between stakeholders and technical teams, so clear communication is key.
  • Problem-Solving: You must be able to identify challenges and propose practical solutions.
  • Project Management: Knowledge of project management methodologies like Agile or Waterfall is often beneficial.

2. Relevant Certifications

While a degree may not be necessary, certifications provide proof of your expertise and dedication. Some widely recognized certifications include:

  • Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP): This is one of the most respected certifications for seasoned Business Analysts. It demonstrates an advanced understanding of business analysis.
  • Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA): Ideal for those with a bit less experience, CCBA proves your ability to apply business analysis principles effectively.
  • Agile Business Analyst Certification: With many businesses adopting Agile methodologies, this certification proves you can work in Agile environments.
  • LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training: By enrolling in our comprehensive course, you’ll gain practical skills that can help you qualify for certifications and boost your chances of landing a job.

3. Continuous Learning

The world of business analysis evolves rapidly, so continuous learning is a must.

Keep yourself updated on the latest industry trends, tools, and technologies by attending workshops, webinars, and further training programs. LearnWithPride offers ongoing learning opportunities and mentorship to help you stay at the top of your game.

4. Soft Skills

In addition to technical knowledge, soft skills like attention to detail, teamwork, and time management are essential in this role. Many companies value these qualities just as much as technical expertise.

5. Build a Strong Portfolio

If you’re entering the field without a degree, having a strong portfolio that showcases your work can be a game-changer.

Include real-life case studies, projects you’ve worked on, and any relevant work that demonstrates your ability to apply business analysis techniques effectively.

In summary, while a degree may not be required to become a Business Analyst, obtaining relevant certifications, gaining hands-on experience, and continuously developing your skills can significantly boost your qualifications and make you stand out in a competitive job market.

LearnWithPride Business Analysis Training

The LearnWithPride Business Analysis training offers hands-on, industry-focused learning with personalized mentorship, equipping you with the skills and confidence to thrive in business analysis roles.

Access The Training Now!

How to Become a Business Analyst Without a Degree

Not having a degree in business analysis or a related field doesn’t mean you can’t pursue a career in this field.

Many successful Business Analysts have made their way into the profession through alternative paths. Here’s how you can start building your career without a degree:

1. Gain Relevant Experience

While formal education is helpful, hands-on experience often counts for more.

If you’re already working in a business or tech environment, start by learning the business processes around you. Volunteer to take on projects that involve analyzing data, improving workflows, or gathering requirements. These small experiences will give you valuable insights into the role.

You can also gain experience by:

  • Internships: Seek internships or entry-level positions related to business analysis or data management.
  • Freelancing: Offer your services as a freelance analyst. Even small projects will help you build your portfolio.

2. Learn Key Business Analysis Tools

One of the best ways to build your skills is by mastering business analysis tools. Some of the most commonly used tools include:

  • Microsoft Excel/Power BI/Tableau: Essential for data analysis and visualization.
  • Jira and Confluence: Popular tools for managing Agile projects.
  • SQL: Having a solid understanding of SQL can help you pull and analyze data from databases.

By becoming proficient in these tools, you’ll be much more attractive to potential employers. LearnWithPride offers hands-on training in these tools, along with project-based learning that mirrors real-world scenarios.

3. Earn Relevant Certifications

Certifications are a great way to validate your skills and knowledge, especially if you don’t have a degree. As mentioned earlier, certifications like CCBA, CBAP, or even specialized Agile Business Analyst certifications are highly recognized in the industry.

LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training not only prepares you for these certifications but also provides you with practical experience, real-world projects, and mentorship. Our program offers the ideal foundation for those starting from scratch and wanting to make a successful transition into the business analysis field.

4. Network with Industry Professionals

Networking is crucial, especially when you’re trying to break into a new field. Join professional organizations like the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), attend webinars, and engage with Business Analysts on LinkedIn. Building relationships with experienced professionals can help you learn from their experiences and even open doors for job opportunities.

5. Focus on Soft Skills

As a Business Analyst, you’ll be expected to interact with a wide range of people—stakeholders, clients, and development teams. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills are critical. Make sure to develop these soft skills, as they are just as important as technical expertise in this role.

In conclusion, becoming a Business Analyst without a degree is entirely possible. By gaining relevant experience, learning essential tools, earning certifications, networking, and honing soft skills, you can position yourself for success in this growing field. LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training is a great starting point to help you gain the skills and credentials you need to land your first Business Analyst role.

Business Analyst Qualifications

To work as a Business Analyst, certain qualifications can help you stand out and prove your competence. While a degree can be helpful, it’s not always necessary. Here’s a breakdown of the qualifications you should consider to become a successful Business Analyst:

1. Educational Background

While you don’t need a degree in business analysis, having a background in business, computer science, or a related field can certainly be beneficial. Degrees in areas such as information technology, economics, or engineering often provide a solid foundation for a career in business analysis. However, even if you don’t have a degree in a related field, there are still ways to break into the industry, as we’ve discussed in earlier sections.

2. Relevant Certifications

Certifications play a key role in validating your skills and knowledge in business analysis. Some of the most recognized certifications include:

  • Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP): This is one of the most sought-after certifications in the industry. It demonstrates your expertise and experience in business analysis and can be a major asset in landing higher-level roles.
  • Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA): This is ideal for those with a few years of experience in business analysis, offering a solid foundation for career advancement.
  • Agile Analysis Certification (AAC): If you want to focus on Agile methodologies, this certification is highly valuable.

LearnWithPride offers business analysis training that prepares you for certifications like CBAP, CCBA, and Agile Analysis. The program gives you the practical experience and knowledge you need to confidently pursue these certifications and advance in your career.

3. Technical Skills

A Business Analyst often works with data and technology to identify solutions and improve business processes. Therefore, being proficient in certain technical skills is important:

  • Data Analysis Tools (Excel, Power BI, Tableau): Business Analysts are expected to analyze and visualize data effectively. These tools help you identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Database Management and SQL: Knowing how to interact with databases and understand SQL queries will help you access and analyze data more efficiently.
  • Requirements Gathering and Modeling Tools (e.g., Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart): Being able to model business processes or workflows is a critical skill. Familiarity with these tools is beneficial for creating diagrams and visual representations of business requirements.

LearnWithPride offers training in these essential tools, helping you develop hands-on experience through real-world projects.

4. Soft Skills and Business Acumen

Along with technical skills, soft skills are just as important in the role of a Business Analyst. Here are a few essential soft skills to develop:

  • Communication: You need to be able to communicate effectively with stakeholders, clients, and teams.
  • Problem-Solving: You must be able to analyze issues and find practical solutions.
  • Critical Thinking: Being able to analyze data, identify patterns, and think critically is vital.
  • Time Management: Managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines is a common part of a Business Analyst’s job.

Developing these skills will not only help you perform better as a Business Analyst but also make you a more desirable candidate to employers.

5. Experience and Projects

Hands-on experience is one of the most important qualifications for a Business Analyst. While working on real-world projects, you’ll gain the ability to apply your knowledge to solve business problems. Many Business Analysts start in entry-level positions or internships, where they work alongside senior analysts or project managers. You can also consider freelancing or taking on side projects to gain additional experience.

LearnWithPride offers practical training with real-world projects, so you can start building your portfolio while learning. Our business analysis program ensures you gain the experience that employers are looking for.

LearnWithPride Business Analysis Training

The LearnWithPride Business Analysis training offers hands-on, industry-focused learning with personalized mentorship, equipping you with the skills and confidence to thrive in business analysis roles.

Access The Training Now!

Conclusion

The right qualifications for becoming a Business Analyst depend on a combination of education, certifications, technical skills, and hands-on experience. By developing a balance of these qualifications, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in business analysis. LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training helps you develop the qualifications necessary to thrive in this field, providing you with globally recognized certifications and the practical experience needed to land your dream role.

Next Steps: How to Start Your Business Analysis Career in 2025

Now that you have a clear understanding of what it takes to become a Business Analyst, it’s time to take the next step toward turning your career goals into a reality.

If you’re ready to dive deeper into the world of business analysis and start building the skills needed to succeed, LearnWithPride’s Business Analysis Training is the perfect place to start. Our program equips you with the knowledge, hands-on experience, and certifications that employers demand. With a structured learning path, expert mentorship, and real-world projects, you’ll be well-prepared to begin your career as a Business Analyst in 2025.

Ready to get started? Enroll in our Business Analysis course today and take the first step toward a successful and fulfilling career.

Leave a Reply

Chukwuemeka Maduka

Chukwuemeka Maduka is an experienced and certified Web Developer, Digital Marketer, and SEO Specialist. He is currently part of the team working to improve the digital presence of LearnWithPride both on the search engines and on social media.