Studying for a degree in computing or another type of IT course in the UK will make you very attractive to a potential employer in our current digital-first world, as you will have skills that many businesses and organisations require. Computing and IT courses cover many subject areas, including gaming and app development, software engineering, computer science, design and IT security. Many universities in the UK have good connections with leading technology and IT companies, and students can learn first-hand from leading professionals in the industry. Computing courses at degree level will cover areas such as networks, virtual reality, gaming, computer hardware and software, AI and app design. The UK is known for being at the forefront of digital technology innovations and computer science. If you're thinking of pursuing a career in computing and IT, here are three main reasons why studying the subject in the UK may be a good choice for you and your professional future.
1.You'll have access to world-class facilities and leading figures in the computing industry
UK universities offer students some of the best facilities in the world, with great connections to industry to ensure students have the best outcomes in their learning experiences. At Keele University for example, computing students have access to a wide range of equipment at the central science laboratories building, and at the school of computing and mathematics. This includes supercomputer facilities, a VR lab and a 'Maker Space'.
Keele is at the forefront of research, and its lecturers in computer science are internationally recognised leaders in research on synthetic biology, wearable technologies, health and cultural informatics, responsible artificial intelligence, computer vision and evolutionary robotics. As a student at Keele, you will focus on research that has the potential to create a significant impact on the computational understanding and engineering of complex systems, to improve people’s quality of life and to pave the way for world-leading innovations that improve the security, reliability and quality of computing devices and services used in industry.
Keele is also in the unique position of hosting the first living laboratory for energy-efficient technologies: the multi-million-pound Smart Energy Network Demonstrator (SEND). Keele's expertise feeds into modules taken over the course of your degree, with teaching that is informed by research. Module contents are kept up-to-date thanks to close interaction with the Industry Advisory Board. Keele's careers and employability team (shortlisted for Best University Careers Employment Service at the National Undergraduate Employability Awards, 2021), offer a variety of personal and career development opportunities to enhance your employability. Graduates can move on to work in positions including IT consultant, software engineer, cyber security analyst, UX designer, AI data analyst, information systems manager, and many more.
2. You'll have a globally recognised and accredited computing and IT degree
If you study at a UK university, you'll receive a globally recognised qualification from a world-renowned and accredited institution, such as the University of Dundee.
Computing students at the University of Dundee are considered to be part of a generation that will create and shape the future. As a student at Dundee, you will be studying for a course that is fully accredited by BCS, (the British Chartered Institute for IT), The University of Dundee is also a member of the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Academy, and the GitHub Global Campus. During your degree, you will be taught by AWS accredited educators, GitHub campus experts, and agile scrum masters.
At the same time, you'll be encouraged to take part in hands-on learning, working with others and developing industry-relevant skills. The university's degrees are focused on problem solving, and include practical sessions, group and project work. As you study, you will find that innovation and enterprise are at the heart of your degree course. You will gain industry-relevant skills, and use equipment found in the workplace.
The University of Dundee has a renowned reputation for research and development in augmentative and alternative communication, argument technology and space technology. Its centre for argument technology, known as ARG-tech, is also a world leader in developing technology which can dissect and analyse argument and debate. The university is also renowned for developing intelligent and multimodal technologies within the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), working with leading companies in the field to support and enhance interaction for individuals with a variety of communication impairments.
3.UK universities offer plenty of work placements and employability support
If you decide to study computing at degree level, you will need access to a range of future employment support, career options and work placements to gain experience. Universities in the UK are world leaders in providing this level of support to students. De Montfort University for example offers a DMU Works careers initiative. This consists of a dedicated team, who can help to get you work-ready by integrating a placement year into your degree.
You will receive help to create a strong CV, develop interview skills, and make applications. Many students have recently benefited from the initiative, and have gained valuable experience with national companies including Microsoft, GlaxoSmithKline, the NHS, Caterpillar, Airbus Group, PepsiCo, ESSO and Honda Racing. Graduates leave with a broad range of career paths to choose from in areas such as software and hardware development, information architecture, security programming and game development. Students have been known to launch their own businesses and/or work for well-known names including HP, Rockstar North, Intel, Codemasters, Santander and HSBC Bank.
You will have the opportunity to take part in a DMU Global trip, the university's international experience programme, which aims to enrich studies, broaden cultural horizons and develop key skills valued by employers. Previous computer science students have networked with Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, explored science and technology museums in Berlin, and taken part in challenges at the Spyscape Museum in New York.
With more than 50 years of teaching experience and a commitment to regularly reviewing and aligning course modules with industry needs, your degree from De Montfort will have a blend of practice and theory.
High-quality research directly informs teaching at the university, putting courses at the cutting-edge of new developments. From collaboration with space agencies, to work within cyber security and artificial intelligence, you will have plenty of opportunities to grow your network for career opportunities.
Computing is at the centre of life in the 21st century. In this digital age, computers play a role in everything we do – from booking tickets for experiences, to the vehicles we drive and travel in. Understanding computing and taking a degree in IT at a UK university will give you an exciting career path that is at the forefront of latest technologies. It is a field that is continually growing and changing, with the development of new technologies such as virtual reality and AI changing the way we live and work. By studying computing and IT at degree level in the UK, you will learn transferable skills like critical thinking, analysis, research and problem solving. UK institutions offer great facilities and leading academics within the computing industry. Students can expand their professional networks, enjoy work placements to gain experience, and receive a globally-recognised qualification at the end of their studies. With so much changing and developing in the world of IT, this fast-paced industry is sure to be a rewarding career.
For more information, you can visit the Keele University, University of Dundee and De Montfort University websites.
Keele University: https://www.keele.ac.uk/
University of Dundee: https://www.dundee.ac.uk/
De Montfort University: https://www.dmu.ac.uk/
