Employers are constantly searching for graduates with strong IT skills and the IT skills shortage in the labour market isn’t predicted to change any time soon. This must be good news for any Computing Science or Software Engineering Graduate? Well yes, it is, however, it doesn’t stop there – employers are simply unable to fill all their vacancies with Comp Sci and SE students and graduates. There just aren’t enough of them to satisfy the labour market, which means that any student or graduate who has shown an aptitude or interest in computing, and has the other skills required, can look at the IT sector as a huge opportunity.
What kind of degrees are likely to give you an advantage?
I’ve spoken to a Physics graduate with level 1 and 2 Computing Science, who was snapped up by the IT industry. No great surprise there perhaps, but on speaking to IT employers, they’re keen on anyone who has shown an aptitude for computing in their degree, especially if it involves some coding. So, if you’re a Theoretical Physics student, and you’ve really enjoyed coding – it could be well worth your while to look into IT. Using and/or adapting software is common in lots of degree disciplines – including, but not limited to – Maths, Stats, Chemistry, Chemical Physics, Aeronautical Engineering, other Science and Engineering, Psychology, Business, other Social Sciences and yes, even Arts!
I’ve worked with students who haven’t studied computing much at all at university, but have maybe built PCs at home, fixed friends and family member’s computers, or maybe worked as an apple genius or similar role. That can be enough for some IT employers, particularly the larger ones who would be keen to train such graduates, if they have some of the softer skills that are vital in today’s technology roles.
Not convinced? Maybe a quick glance at some of the issues in IT today will persuade you!
What can you do in the IT sector?
The roles in IT are many and varied, and there’s no shortage of information (and vacancies) out there, on:
and many more… just Google!
A quick look and I’m sure you’ll be convinced that an IT career could well be possible for you, even if your degree isn’t obviously focussed on Computing! If you want more help, make an appointment with a Careers Adviser.
The Careers Space 