Shaking off its geeky image, computer science at higher education level is a creative and wide-ranging area of study. Cooler still, graduates are sought-after and job prospects excellent. A degree in computer science or a related subject could lead to a broad range of career options, from finance and e-commerce to computer gaming, multimedia and telecommunications.

Computers are an essential element in every area of business and commerce. Hospitals, hotels, airports, offices, retail chains – any enterprise you can think of, no matter where in the world, has a computer system as a major tool in its organisation. Likewise, computers play a large part in our everyday lives, so the need for people who can operate computers (and who can help those who are less clued up) continues to grow. Since most of us don’t know our hardware from our software, let alone the intricacies of C++, you are likely to thrive in the job market if you do. A degree will ensure that you are well prepared for an industry that is ever progressing.

Degrees in computing use sound underlying principles and clear logical thinking to design and build practical and functional systems. A computer science degree gives students the opportunity to learn how modern computer and communication systems work, how they can be improved in the future, and how they can be used to build the next generation of computing applications. With the rapid progression of the discipline, the constant updating of knowledge is essential. A good computer scientist does not just have a basic set of skills but learns how to adapt to technological change, with all the intrinsic challenges that this bring. Computing is a relatively young profession and graduates may find that it retains an openness to fresh ideas and practices that some other industries struggle with. Another positive is that the industry is leading the way in flexible working and career planning, which can only benefit you as you progress through your career.

Studying Computer Science
A wide range of career-based courses is offered at all levels, from HNDs and foundation degrees to BSc and MSc degrees. It’s a popular subject that attracts people with many different skills, backgrounds and aspirations. In 2008/09, 75,635 students were taking undergraduate-level courses within computer science subjects at UK universities and colleges (source: HESA). There are almost 300 foundation degree programmes in computing and IT available in the UK, including Commercial Web Development, Computer Systems with Software Engineering, Creative Digital Technologies and Networking.

Foundation Degrees and HNDs in computing and IT aim to address specific skills shortages in both technical and managerial areas and will give you a good grounding for a career in IT. Straight computing degrees tend to focus on core systems skills including databases, system analysis and application development, while IT courses hone skills in computer hardware and software engineering, data communications and computer networks. Computer science degrees are often based more on mathematics and theory than other computer-related degrees and are ideal if you wish to learn programming skills and how to solve computing problems. They provide a sound educational base in all areas of computing before you specialise in a specific area.

Career Paths
Studying computer science will give you an excellent start in your working life. It will develop your skills of observation, as well as your ability to think logically, handle a large volume of data and work through intellectually challenging problems. All of these are vital qualities in the workplace, so employers look very favourably on computing graduates.

• IT Consultant, System Analyst, Software Engineer

In the computing business, graduates usually seek employment with IT consultancies, software and hardware providers, or end-user organisations. IT consultants and systems analysts are employed by companies to examine their IT systems and processes and recommend improvements. Software engineers, developers or programmers design and build programs that help organisations to work more effectively and cost-efficiently.

Degrees that can lead on to these careers include computer science, information technology, software development, software engineering and business information systems. You may be able start as a trainee technician if you have a good working knowledge of computer systems, but you could improve your prospects by gaining higher-level qualifications.

Salary guide
In general, starting salaries can be between £23,000 and £32,000, with large firms offering ‘golden hellos’ to graduate recruits to ensure they attract the best. Prospects in this industry are excellent, and experienced IT consultants and systems analysts can earn up to £100,000 depending on experience. See e-skills UK, www.e-skills.com.