Student Data Analyst (Fall 2026)

Position Introduction:

The Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Office is seeking two undergraduate students to join its Data Analysis team as Student Data Analysts.

This position provides students with practical experience in data analysis, research, reporting, and data visualization. Student Data Analysts will work with institutional data and support projects that inform decision-making across the College. Students will receive hands-on training and regular guidance as they develop skills in Excel, Power BI, data validation, analytical reasoning, and professional communication.

We are especially interested in students who would like to remain in the position for multiple semesters, allowing them to continue developing their skills and take on increasingly independent work.

Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain reports, dashboards, charts, and analytical models using Excel and Power BI.
• Retrieve, organize, review, and validate institutional data.
• Assist with enrollment, student, academic program, and other College-level analyses.
• Respond to data and reporting requests from departments and Dean's Office leadership.
• Research and investigate unexpected trends or inconsistencies in data.
• Learn to query databases and work with institutional data sources.
• Document data sources, calculations, assumptions, and analytical methods.
• Summarize findings in clear language for non-technical audiences.
• Assist with longer-term analytical projects from initial research through final presentation.
• Manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Handle confidential student and personnel information in accordance with FERPA and University policies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Student analysts will learn to answer three important questions about their work:

• How did you arrive at that number?
• Where did the data come from?
• How do we know it's right?

What You'll Learn:

• Develop advanced Excel and Power BI skills.
• Learn how professional analysts approach and validate data.
• Work with real-world datasets and business questions.
• Improve analytical writing and data visualization skills.
• Present findings to College leadership and departmental administrators.
• Complete projects that can be discussed in future job or graduate school interviews.
• Receive regular feedback and professional development from the Executive Director.

Students who demonstrate strong performance and increased proficiency may be considered for additional responsibilities and advancement opportunities, subject to University processes and available funding.

Students from all DFCAS majors are encouraged to apply. Advanced data-analysis experience is not required. We are looking for students who are curious, careful, willing to learn, and interested in understanding not only what the numbers show, but why. Students with at least two semesters remaining at OU are especially encouraged to apply.

Selection Process:

We want to see how you like to solve problems. The interview includes a short data-analysis exercise: you'll build a simple chart and write a brief interpretation of the data, and then we'll talk through it together. We're evaluating analytical thinking, attention to detail, and communication — not advanced Excel skills, and not how you perform under pressure. If you need help with Excel, just ask.

Use of AI:

AI tools may be used as part of the application process, interview exercise, and position when appropriate.

Applicants should be prepared to explain how they used AI and how they reviewed or verified its output. AI is considered a tool to support analytical work, not a replacement for independent judgment.

All use of AI while working with University information must comply with applicable University requirements regarding confidentiality, FERPA, information security, and institutional data.

Required Education and Experience:

Must be currently enrolled in the Fall Term as a student at the University of Oklahoma.

Hiring contingent upon verification of current student status.

Must be a student in the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences.

Skills:

• Basic familiarity with Microsoft Excel.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to think critically and solve problems.
• Ability to learn new software and analytical methods.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to maintain a consistent weekly work schedule.

Department Preferences:

Coursework or experience in one or more of the following areas is helpful but not required:

• Statistics
• Economics
• Research methods
• Data analysis
• Quantitative reasoning
• Computer science or programming
• Business analytics
• Social science research
• Research and analytical writing