Individuals with computing and information technology skills are vital for businesses of all sizes to succeed in today’s interconnected global economy. Studying our part-time MSc Computer Science programme will provide you with the up-to-date knowledge required to be successful in this diverse industry and prepare you for a variety of roles. Ideal for those looking to move into IT from a non-related background, this programme is also designed for those looking to advance their career in IT. So why should you consider a move into Computing and IT?
1. Marked growth in IT and computing job roles
Computing and IT can lead to great employment options – the figures speak for themselves. Full-time employment in the IT sector has continued to rise since the recession, and according to recruiters Hays UK, 76% of firms plan to increase their headcount further in 2016. This increase in demand has also resulted in a significant shortfall between the number of vacant positions and the number of qualified professionals to fill these roles. Figures from the European Commission predict that by 2020 there will be a shortfall over almost 1 million ICT professionals in Europe.
2. Increasing average salaries
IT salaries grew by 2.8% overall last year and, according to Robert Half’s 2016 Salary Guide, and salaries are expected to rise by a further 4% on average this year. Furthermore, studying for your postgraduate degree in London may help you land a new role in the city where average permanent salaries increased by 2.45% compared to a last year.
3. Average job satisfaction
It is important to be in a job that you love and a role in IT can challenge you intellectually and provide excellent opportunities for development. UK job satisfaction has dropped to its lowest level in 2 years according to the CIPD/Halogen Employee Outlook report. However, according to the Telegraph, IT Manager and Software Engineer jobs appear in the top 10 best fields for job satisfaction. The TechTarget employment survey also shows that two thirds of IT professionals stay within their current jobs because they are actively engaged, supported by their managers and rewarded by development opportunities.
4. Multiple career pathways
Computing and IT covers a broad spectrum of specialities and professionalisms which can open up a range of career pathways depending on where you choose to specialise. The 5 common technology disciplines that IT and computing graduates go into are:
– website design
– software development
– programming
– systems analysis
– database administration
5. Utilise your existing skills to benefit your IT career
To work in the IT and computing sector you not only need to have technical knowledge but also the soft skills needed to lead, communicate and influence. As technology becomes further entwined with business, this need for both technical and soft skills becomes more prevalent. If you are entering the IT space from another background such as project management, business or marketing, you could already have the necessary skills to develop into a fully rounded IT professional.
Our part-time MSc Computer Science programme is designed for working professionals and allows you to continue studying while you work. All taught sessions are delivered in 15 weekend blocks spread over a two year period. Contact our team today to find out more.
