With a degree in IT or a related subject you could get a place on a graduate scheme or take a graduate-level job with an IT company. You could also work in the IT division of an organisation in any sector, such as banking, retail, government or charities.
Even with an IT degree, you will need to train on the job in the systems and procedures of the organisation you work for and learn about its core business. IT changes quickly and you will need to keep up.
Example jobs
Helpdesk manager
Manages staff to provide IT support for the organisation.
Test engineer
Writes software, designs and tests applications.
Analyst
Designs systems or applications to meet customers’ business requirements.
Programmer or developer
Develops software using computer programming languages.
Things you need to know
Typical working conditions
- You will be based in an office, but are likely to travel within and outside the organisation.
- If you work for an international company, you may go abroad on business trips.
- You will be working in a fast-paced environment and may need to work long hours or work in a shift pattern.
Qualifications needed
- You may need an IT or computer science degree. Some employers may accept any degree if you are technically minded and can demonstrate an interest in IT.
- Degrees that include business are also useful. For example, you could take an Information Technology Management for Business (ITMB) degree.
- You may need to have knowledge of IT systems or programming languages.
Career path
- A graduate scheme may lead to fast-track promotion in your organisation.
- You will build up your technical and/or business knowledge to become a specialist.
- You could progress in a large organisation or change employers to get experience or promotion.
Useful links
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Institution of Analysts and Programmers
Career information for analysts and programmers
TechFuture Careers
Careers information including IT graduate recruitment schemes
The Chartered Institute for IT
Information on IT qualifications, training and careers