As today’s technology continues to change and evolve at a rapid pace, the demand for IT professionals has certainly been on the rise – and there are no signs of that demand slowing down anytime soon. A London based IT course at West London College opens up far more doors than most students even realize, many of which we will cover in this quick guide to what you can do with your IT degree.

What Skills Does an IT Graduate Gain?

Those who partake in an IT course gain a number of skills that are crucial for working both within the IT industry and in other industries.

  • Graduates gain the capacity to think quantitatively, logically and creatively. This helps in the development of new products, troubleshooting, problem-solving and more
  • Those who partake in such a program acquire numerous skills related to software development, including engineering, design, and one or more programming languages (such as C#)
  • Graduates learn about computers, but their teaching goes beyond that. They also learn to understand databases, computer networking and often pick up some learning about web development
  • IT classes place an importance on their graduates being able to effectively communicate their ideas both written and verbally
  • A lot of time is spent teaching students how to carefully plan and then execute their work. This is particularly important in the IT industry as several tasks rely heavily on the planning and design phase
  • Graduates come away from the course with a new understanding and appreciation for teamwork

Flexible Employment Options

Many tech-savvy individuals choose to venture into the IT field because it is an incredibly flexible field to work in. Some may choose to work for a small business or large organization. Several individuals who graduate with an IT degree, however, choose to be self-employed or freelance their skills. Many may start off as one form of employment and then switch to the other depending on their needs.

The Many Careers Open for IT Professionals

For IT students, a world of opportunity awaits. Below are just some of the career opportunities that those who graduate with an IT degree may choose to venture into it

Computer Sales Support

Staff who chose to enter this career act as a middleman, being the point of contact between the IT staff of an organization and clients. These individuals are responsible for answering questions, concerns and queries about products. It is also their duty to provide technical advice as well as introduce new products. The job often involves entertaining clients, making presentations or giving demonstrations, and helping attract new business.

Database Administrator

Also known as a DBA, a database administrator performs a variety of functions within an organization, including the installation, upgrading, configuring, monitoring and maintenance of databases. These professionals are also responsible for the development, design, and security of the database.

IT Analyst

Also known as a systems analyst, an individual who enters into this job role both designs and implements information systems that are intended to optimize the efficiency of an organization. IT analysts typically obtain direction from the manager who will provide them with a broad objective. The analyst then develops a cost-effective and efficient solution for both management and end-users.

IT Consultant

Individuals who choose this career are typically contracted to work with commercial and industrial clients who are having troubles or need advice on IT problems. These consultants advise clients of the best course of action, make plans, design and then install the best information technology systems to meet the needs of each specific client.

IT Support Specialist

These technical support experts are trained in a variety of areas, including:

  • Device troubleshooting
  • Computer repair
  • System optimization

Graduates who enter this field of work regularly provide advice and knowledgeable assistance which improves the usability of a program, as well as its functionality. Many choose to enter this field because it involves a wide range of expertise, which keeps those following this career path on their toes.

Programmer

The computer programmer (often referred to as a web programmer, analyst programmer or software developer) is responsible for writing computer software. Many programmers choose to specialize in certain areas while others are “generalists” who will write code for many different types of software.

Software Engineer

Though often mistaken as being the same role as a programmer, the two are actually very different disciplines. A software engineer creates the designs which the programmer implements. These individuals hold a very important job and are often held accountable to a very specific code of ethics.

Software Tester

The role of the software tester is to ensure that the software and applications being used by a company are of high quality, design, integrity and that they function properly. Testers typically apply a number of rigorous testing methods in an attempt to uncover any bugs or security concerns before they become potential issues.

Software Trainer

As the title suggests a software trainer does just that: they train a range of clients on how to use different desktop applications and software. These individuals are typically responsible for creating their own lesson plans and preparing their own teaching materials. Their job is to also check in with clients, assess their work and provide helpful feedback to students and clients.

System Designer

Known as architects and systems builders, these individuals are responsible for analysing, designing as well as modifying any computer systems, networks and websites. These individuals are usually called upon whenever an IT system, network, or website experiences operational issues.

System Programmer

This very technical career requires a graduate to produce, install and then implement both new and modified networks, computer systems and other related operating software. Both software and hardware are usually involved.

Website Designer

Website design is the ideal occupation for those who love working in a technical space but have a creative side. Both attributes are used to design or redesign existing websites to make them both more functional and more attractive to an organization’s target market.