There can be little doubt that technology rules the world, infiltrating nearly every aspect of life all over the world. Studying information technology at university can be a great first step into this ever-evolving industry.

We need only to think through a typical day to realise how much technology impacts our lives, and with such rapid advancements constantly arriving to change the way we operate and live, the world of information technology (IT) is surely one of the most exciting to work within.

While there will always be a number of ‘self-taught’ IT whizzes walking into good jobs, the vast majority of those who find work in the IT industry begin their journey with a degree programme, learning and mastering the large quantities of technical information vital to finding employment.

There are many different degree programmes that fall into the IT bracket and all require students who have an aptitude for science or maths and a lively interest in technology. Would-be students should carefully research the different courses available, selecting one that appeals to their skills and interests.

Some of the more popular options worth considering are as follows:

Information Technology

A good information technology course will equip students with an understanding of how IT systems work and how they are practically applied. The focus is on computers and technology, with extensive training in programming, but students also study management and information science, both of which can be useful for those seeking managerial type positions in the future.

Graduates of information technology undertake a range of different careers, including web-application and software development, network management, or systems design engineering. 

Computer Science

As the name suggests, a degree in computer science gives students a thorough understanding of how computers work, with an emphasis on the mathematical and theoretical foundations of computing. Students usually spend time learning computer systems engineering and have opportunities to design systems for themselves with guidance from tutors.

Those graduating with a degree in computer science have the basic requirement for many different jobs within the IT industry, and can find themselves positions as IT specialists, software developers, or systems architects.

Software Engineering

While the first year of a software engineering course will often follow the same route as that of computer science, the final two years will see students being trained to configure, manage, and maintain a range of computer networks and software systems by studying different computer systems used in a variety of businesses and industries.

Career opportunities for the talented software engineer include roles such as network managers or analysts, technical consultants, and computer security professionals.

Network Technology

Undertaking a course in network technology usually involves studying both wired and wireless networks. Students learn to configure networks and use software to monitor the progress of, and locate and fix the problems within, high-functioning network systems.

An important specialism of the IT industry, computer networks are used increasingly and those with a working knowledge of them can find employment as a network engineer, manager, or designer.

Mobile Communications Technology

Undertaking a course in mobile communications technology will provide students with the knowledge required to improve the functioning and reliability of mobile phones and devices. Course content often includes analogue and digital electronics, computers and networking, and in-depth study of mobile communications systems to provide a firm foundation of knowledge and ensure students understand the idiosyncrasies of this specialised branch of the IT industry.

As mobile communications infiltrates life worldwide, there are many different international jobs open to the graduate, such as field technician, applications development technician, or mobile devices support consultant.

Studying and Qualifying

Most degrees that fall with Information Technology take three years to complete and can be undertaken at a university or in a specialist college.