Market Research Analyst

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Work Tasks

MARKET RESEARCH ANALYSTS are concerned with the design, promotion, price, distribution, and sales of a product or service. They analyze statistical data on past sales to predict future sales. They gather data on competitors and analyze prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution. They design surveys and questionnaires to get the data they need to assess user preferences. They advise clients on a course of action based upon these findings. They give companies the information to make decisions on whether to add new lines of merchandise or open new branches, and promote, distribute, design, and price their products and services.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $67,000 average per year ($32.25 per hour)
• A large occupation (261,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.8% per year)

Entry Requirements

A bachelor's degree with a major in marketing is sufficient for many entry-level jobs leading to MARKET RESEARCH ANALYST positions. However, graduate training is required for most private sector market research analyst jobs, and for advancement to more responsible research and administrative positions. A Ph.D. is necessary for top positions in many companies and for teaching in colleges and universities. Market research analysts may earn advanced degrees in economics, business administration, marketing, statistics, or some closely related discipline.