Computing is part of just about everything we do, from the cars we drive, to the movies we watch, to the way businesses deal with us! And, as reported by the Tech Partnership, the Sector Skills Council for the IT and telecommunications industry predicts that from now until 2020 jobs in IT and telecoms will grow almost twice as quickly as the UK average. So, are you ready to stay connected with a computing degree?
Why study computing?
There are significant financial rewards for pursuing an IT related career.
Computer Science graduates are among the most highly paid with typical starting salaries ranging from £22k to £32k, while the average non-graduate salary is £15k.
The demand for highly skilled computing professionals is huge but a large number of positions are being left unfilled due to an IT skills shortage.
Dr Philip Hallam, CEO of Arden University – a leading provider of IT degree programmes through distance and blended learning, said:
“For many sectors struggling with recruitment, the complaint is often that candidates have the formal qualifications but lack ‘real world’ workplace skills. For many in this sector, it seems the opposite is true.”
“The IT industry is attracting a generation of budding computing entrepreneurs that have grown up with technology at their fingertips but who lack the structured knowledge they need – the building blocks that a computing degree provides. Those studying for an IT degree have the best of both and so are in a very strong position.”
Is computing right for me?
A Computing degree is designed to provide you with a range of those skills and resources specifically tailored to meet the requirements of the computing industry. Graduates from this course have a great understanding of a broad range of computing ideas and are well placed to drive forward future advancements in computing. With the ‘know how’ of coding, programming and database, you’ll soon be speaking the computing language!
“My main reason for applying for mobile computing BSc (Hon) is because I run a pc repair company and we also design websites. We have been asked in the past about design apps or mobile sites and had to turn down work. Once I have completed the course I will be able to put what I have learned into a practical context. – David McGrath, Computing student
Is it a good career path to choose?
From wifi to smartphones , to social networking and instant messaging: over the last 25 years, technology has dramatically changed the way in which we live and communicate.
Thanks to your impressive IT knowledge and professional analytical skills (not to mention the fact that you’ll be a whiz at problem solving) when it comes to potential careers, the world really is your oyster. Possible positions include
- Computer networking
- Systems analyst
- Web designer
- Software development
- Games development
- Sound technician
- Multimedia broadcaster
- Credit analyst
- Financial risk analyst
How is that for choice?
Fast Facts
| What type of qualification will I get? | Students on IT & Computing degree courses will normally obtain a BSc (Hons) qualification. Course names may vary between institutions but the most common are Computing, Computer Science or Information Systems. Masters programmes are also available. |
| Do I have to go to university to study? | No, there are many ways to study for and IT & Computing degree. Online, part-time, and blended (part online, part face-to-face) options are all available. |
| How long will it take? | Degree courses are normally three years. Most students studying part time/online are expected to complete the course in 4.5 years. A master’s degree can be completed in 1-5 years, depending on the mode of study. |
| What entry requirements are there? | Requirements will vary. In most cases, an A Level maths qualification (or equivalent) will be required. Some institutions also offer a foundation year which acts as a stepping stone towards a degree. When applying for a master’s degree, students are normally educated to a degree level. Often, work experience can be taken into account alongside other qualifications. |
| What type of jobs could I get? | Prospects aren’t restricted to ‘IT companies’ as most businesses value IT and computing skills, making this a very flexible qualification. From Data Analyst and Application Programmer to Project Manager and Business Development Office, the opportunities are extremely varied. |
| What type of salary could I expect as a graduate? | In 2014 Computer Science topped a league table of graduate starting salaries. Average figures range from £22,000 to £32,500. |
| Do I have to specialise in a specific area? | No you don’t. Computing or Computer Science BSc degree courses will cover a range of theory and applied work. Degrees in niche areas are available such as mobile computing, information management, security IT, however, specialist courses are more commonly at postgraduate level. |