How to become a market research analyst
Explore how to become a market research analyst by earning a relevant degree, participating in an internship, obtaining certification, and building up your portfolio.
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Ever wondered how Netflix decides which shows to produce, how Target selects its product lineup, or how Apple determines the features for its next iPhone? Behind these impactful business decisions are market research analysts — professionals who turn raw data into actionable insights, shaping the products and services we rely on every day.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for market research analysts to grow by 8% over the next decade. If you're interested in a career that combines marketing, science, and technology, read on to see if becoming a market research analyst is right for you.
What is a market research analyst?
A market research analyst is a professional who studies market conditions to evaluate a product or service's potential success. They collect and analyze data on consumer preferences, competitors, and industry trends to provide actionable insights. Their work helps businesses make informed decisions about marketing strategies, product development, and target audiences.
How to become a market research analyst
To become a market research analyst, you must earn a bachelor's degree, participate in an internship, and consider participating in a certificate program. Read on to learn more about each step.
Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree
To become a market research analyst, you must first earn a bachelor's degree. Because market research analysts perform a diverse set of tasks, their education may be equally diverse. The most applicable degree programs include courses in:
- Statistics
- Marketing
- Economics
- Business
Step 2: Participate in an internship
Internships offer practical, hands-on experience that is often directly transferable to a career path.
While many small and mid-size companies may not have dedicated market research departments, roles within marketing or sales teams can be an excellent entry point. Market research analysts often collaborate closely with these areas, making it essential to understand how data informs both functions. Gaining experience in these roles can help you develop a broader perspective on the ecosystems where market research thrives.
Step 3: Get certified
Market research analysis is often not an entry-level job.
Consider furthering your education through a professional market research certificate program to set yourself apart and improve your skills. A certification is not a replacement for a bachelor's degree. But, it can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to specialize in a particular field or potentially command a higher salary.
Step 4: Build a portfolio
Employers want to see that applicants have a proven track record in the job they're applying for. Prospective market research analysts must have a robust portfolio to demonstrate this.
Your portfolio should include the projects you've taken on throughout your education, internships, and your certificate program. Upload those projects to a web development application like Wix or WordPress.
Get started on edX
Now that you know how to become a market research analyst, consider enrolling in a program with edX to optimize your chances for success, including those in marketing analytics, statistics, and data analysis.
