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Research Strategist

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Research Strategists analyze data and trends to advise organizations. They need analytical skills and strategic thinking to succeed in competitive markets.

Average Salary

₹7,00,000

Growth

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Satisfaction

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Research Strategist

A career as a Research Strategist typically requires a strong educational foundation. Here's a breakdown of the common educational paths:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • A bachelor's degree is generally the minimum requirement. Common fields of study include:
      • Marketing
      • Business Administration
      • Statistics
      • Psychology
      • Sociology
      • Economics
  • Master's Degree (Preferred):
    • Many employers prefer or require a master's degree for more advanced roles. Relevant master's programs include:
      • Market Research
      • Marketing Analytics
      • Business Analytics
      • Statistics
      • Social Sciences with a research focus
  • Key Skills and Knowledge:
    • Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze data and draw meaningful conclusions.
    • Statistical Software: Proficiency in tools like SPSS, SAS, or R.
    • Research Methodologies: Understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods.
    • Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present findings effectively.
    • Critical Thinking: Ability to evaluate information and make informed recommendations.
  • Additional Certifications (Optional):
    • Certifications in market research or data analysis can enhance your credentials.

Having a strong educational background combined with relevant skills will significantly improve your prospects in this field.

Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges in India for Aspiring Research Strategists

To pursue a successful career as a Research Strategist, choosing the right college is crucial. Here are some of the top colleges in India that offer excellent programs in fields relevant to this career:

  • Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs):
    • IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode: These institutions offer top-notch MBA programs with specializations in Marketing, Analytics, and Strategy, providing a strong foundation for a career in research.
  • Indian Statistical Institute (ISI):
    • ISI Kolkata, ISI Delhi: Renowned for their programs in Statistics and related fields, ISI offers excellent training in data analysis and research methodologies.
  • Delhi School of Economics (DSE):
    • DSE Delhi: Offers strong programs in Economics and Statistics, providing a solid base for understanding market trends and consumer behavior.
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS):
    • TISS Mumbai: Offers programs in Social Sciences with a focus on research and analysis, ideal for understanding social and consumer trends.
  • Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS):
    • NMIMS Mumbai: Provides excellent MBA programs with specializations in Marketing and Analytics.
  • Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM):
    • SIBM Pune: Offers MBA programs with a strong focus on Marketing and Strategy.
  • Loyola College:
    • Loyola College, Chennai: Known for its strong programs in Statistics and Economics.

These colleges provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities in the field of research strategy.

Fees

The fee structure for courses leading to a career as a Research Strategist can vary widely depending on the type of institution, course level, and specialization. Here's a breakdown of typical fees in India:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • Government Colleges: ₹10,000 - ₹30,000 per year (e.g., for a B.A. in Economics or Statistics)
    • Private Colleges: ₹50,000 - ₹2,00,000 per year (e.g., for a BBA or B.Sc. in Data Science)
  • Master's Degree:
    • Government Colleges/Universities: ₹20,000 - ₹50,000 per year (e.g., for an M.A. in Economics or Statistics)
    • Private Colleges/Universities: ₹1,00,000 - ₹5,00,000 per year (e.g., for an MBA in Marketing or a Master's in Analytics)
    • IIMs and Top B-Schools: ₹10,00,000 - ₹25,00,000 for the entire program (e.g., for an MBA with a focus on Marketing or Analytics)
  • Online Courses and Certifications:
    • Coursera, Udemy, edX: ₹5,000 - ₹50,000 per course or certification program
  • Factors Influencing Fees:
    • Reputation of the Institution: Top-ranked colleges and universities typically charge higher fees.
    • Course Curriculum: Specialized programs with advanced curriculum may have higher fees.
    • Infrastructure and Resources: Institutions with better infrastructure and resources may charge more. Note: Fees are approximate and subject to change. Always check the official website of the institution for the most up-to-date information.
Related Exams

To excel as a Research Strategist, focusing on relevant exams and certifications can significantly boost your career prospects. Here's a guide to key exams and how they can help:

  • Entrance Exams for Master's Programs:
    • CAT, MAT, XAT, GRE, GMAT: These exams are crucial for gaining admission into top-tier MBA or Master's programs in India and abroad. A strong score can open doors to specialized programs in marketing, analytics, or research.
  • Statistical Certifications:
    • SAS Base Programming Certification: Demonstrates proficiency in SAS, a widely used statistical software. This certification validates your ability to manipulate and analyze data effectively.
    • Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate: This certificate, offered through Coursera, covers essential data analytics skills and tools, including R programming, data visualization, and statistical analysis.
  • Market Research Certifications:
    • Professional Researcher Certification (PRC): Offered by the Marketing Research Association (MRA), this certification validates your expertise in market research methodologies and ethical practices.
  • Benefits of Clearing Exams:
    • Enhanced Credibility: Certifications validate your skills and knowledge, making you a more attractive candidate to employers.
    • Career Advancement: Demonstrating expertise through exams can lead to promotions and higher-paying roles.
    • Improved Skills: Preparing for exams helps you deepen your understanding of key concepts and methodologies.
    • Networking Opportunities: Certification programs often provide opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field.
Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  • High demand for skilled analysts
  • Intellectually stimulating and challenging work
  • Opportunity to influence business decisions
  • Competitive salary and benefits packages
  • Diverse range of industries to work in
  • Opportunities for career advancement
  • Continuous learning and development
  • Making a tangible impact on organizational strategy

Cons

  • High-pressure environment with tight deadlines
  • Requires constant adaptation to new technologies
  • Can be repetitive at times
  • Dealing with large datasets can be overwhelming
  • Potential for job displacement due to automation
  • Ethical considerations regarding data privacy
  • Need to stay updated with industry trends
  • Work may involve long hours