Hi im new here and I was looking through allot of BA forums and stumbled upon this one and thought I'd get some great advice from previous BA'S

I am currently only in 2nd year of Uni, I attend the University of Technology Sydney which is located in Australia. My degree is Bachelor of Science and IT where im majoring in Business Information Sysems management.

I have no experience in BA, and Im not sure what exactly is expected of a BA. My question is what is expected from a BA, like the skills you may need or expected to know. I know all about the design procedure and requirements reports. But what concerns me is the level of programing needed and anything extra. Like my uni subjects seem to be focusing on defining a process, looking at ideas to solve it, the colloboration and communication of a work group. But it seems that out there, it seems that some sort of programming is needed.

My second question is, Is there anything i can do to gain the u pper hand against candidates in an interview, what exactly are you guys looking for. I was talking to some people and they say that what you read plays and important role, but like is there anything thing else that I could do to help me gain experience of a BA without going into a work place.

Thank you Benjamin neo

Adrian,

I read ur replies to the post for starting as BA. In my case, I have been developer so far, mid level with Masters in CS. However, now I am being offered position of IT BA. With no business background:

1. how would you propose me to start my career as BA?

2. Which certifications would be useful for me?

3. Is it necessary that I pursue parttime MBA?

4. What if I DO NOT wish to pursue MBA?

5. Are there any good online classes that I can attend for better understanding of BA role/ duties? So that I do not pursue MBA.

6. which books should I read?

Please help.

Thanks