Graduate Job Guide: Information Technology

This is possibly one of the fastest growing industries in the world. With growing demand for bespoke software solutions, and the explosion of the internet, there are numerous employment opportunities for graduates. Within the I.T. and communications industry, jobs are available with major software companies like Microsoft, and telecoms companies such as Vodafone. There are also niche opportunities available in areas such as video game design.

Industry Overview:

I.T. is everywhere. Every industry, from marketing to engineering uses I.T.. Most large companies have their own in house I.T. department, as do governments, and even some NGO’s.

Telecommunications has boomed, with the advent of mobile phones, and the rapid transit of these hand held devices from purely telephones to multi function smart phones and PDA’s.

Unlike many other industries, which are facing crisis, it seems that the world simply cannot function without information and telecommunications technology professionals, keeping existing communications systems working, and designing and dreaming up the next invention that will keep us all in touch.

This is one industry where technology and advancements happen so quickly, and so frequently, that, once qualified, you will continue to learn, and grow, throughout your career, and chances are that in 10 years, or even 10 months time, you may be working on technologies and advancements that did not even exist when you graduated.

If you want a career in a fast paced, ever changing industry, then I.T. and telecommunications should certainly feature high on your list.

Requirements:

The I.T. and telecommunications industries demand a wide range of skills. You will need to work well as part of a team, possess above average analytical and problem solving skills, and have an innate desire to come up with new, high tech yet simple solutions to sometimes complex problems. You’ll also need to achieve all of these things while working under pressure, and to sometimes tight deadlines.

Creativity undoubtedly also plays a part in the I.T. and telecoms industry, particularly within the design and programming spheres, along with advanced communications skills.

As for formal training, nearly all entrants to the field possess a degree in electronics or information technology, or even in computer science.

I.T. is also an industry where employers often have their own training courses that need to be completed, and the shear speed that the industry moves at may require ongoing training. Add to that the specific training required by software and hardware suppliers, in order to become certified, and you have an industry where you may continue studying and learning for the duration of your working career.

Of course, a background and an interest in computers and technology often form a basis for a career in the I.T. and telecoms industries, and many graduates also complete in service training or internships.
 
Getting this kind of work experience, whether as a private venture, or as a volunteer, may count in your favor when approaching potential employers, as many prefer candidates with a firm grip on the practical, rather than merely the theoretical application of the required skills.

Positions:

There are many niches that you could choose to occupy within the I.T. market that listing all the study requirements for the industry would be just about impossible. You could choose to venture into graphic or web design and development, become a software programmer or a game designer, or become involved in the design of hardware for the computer or mobile phone industries.

Then there are dedicated I.T. security specialists, who design and maintain systems to protect the sensitive information of companies and other organizations, or administration of large networks.

Many graduates will start their careers in support or helpdesk functions, and an entrant to the market at this level can expect earnings in the region of £ 16 000 to £ 22 000, but as one moves up the ranks, which can be a rapid progression for talented and hard working individuals, this increases significantly, with salaries in the region of £ 30 000 for an experienced and qualified engineer. Top developers and programmers can command as much as £ 80 000, although truly gifted professionals, or those who form their own companies can almost write their own check.

Web design and creative fields within the I.T. industries offer similar salary levels for graduates, as does the telecoms industry.

Career Prospects:

I.T. and telecoms is a relatively new field, and new companies are opening up every day. There are large multinational companies that offer employment opportunities, and the potential for becoming setting up your own business is also enormous.

All in all, this is a growth industry, and talented, creative and clever individuals, who apply themselves to the task at hand, can see career and earnings grow quickly.

There is also the opportunity to work on ground breaking new technologies and inventions, bringing your vision to the world.