Overview
IT is a fundamental part of every business and remains one of the fastest-growing industries worldwide. With digital transformation, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI revolutionising organisations, demand for IT professionals has never been higher. Many businesses struggle to find graduates with the right technical skills, meaning opportunities are vast and salaries are competitive.
A career in IT can lead you in multiple directions, from software development and cybersecurity to data science and IT consultancy. The increasing reliance on automation, cloud services, and mobile app development has created a surge in demand for skilled professionals in these fields. Additionally, as cyber-attacks become more sophisticated, businesses and governments are actively searching for information security officers and cybersecurity specialists to safeguard sensitive data.
IT professionals who are adaptable, willing to learn, and able to stay ahead of technology trends will find excellent career prospects. Graduates entering the industry can expect high salaries, job security, and opportunities to work internationally.
Average IT Graduate Salary
IT Graduate Career Path
A career in IT can lead to a variety of roles across multiple industries. IT professionals work in sectors such as finance, healthcare, retail, government, and even space exploration. You can also freelance, consult, or start your own tech business. Here are some of the most popular career paths in IT:
- Software Developer / Engineer – Design, develop, and maintain applications and systems. Key skills include programming in Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript, along with experience in Agile methodologies and DevOps.
- Cybersecurity Analyst – Protect businesses from cyber threats by managing firewalls, encryption, penetration testing, and risk assessments. Strong knowledge of GDPR and cybersecurity frameworks is essential.
- IT Consultant – Advise businesses on improving their IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and technology strategies. This role requires technical knowledge combined with strong problem-solving and business acumen.
- Database Administrator – Manage and optimise databases to ensure efficiency, security, and integrity. SQL, Oracle, and MongoDB are commonly used technologies.
- Web Developer / UX Designer – Build websites and digital experiences, balancing technical expertise with creativity. Key skills include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks such as React and Angular.
- IT Support & Technical Analyst – Provide technical assistance, troubleshoot software and hardware issues, and ensure smooth IT operations within organisations.
- Data Analyst / Data Scientist – Work with big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to extract insights for businesses. Skills in Python, R, SQL, and data visualisation tools like Power BI are highly valuable.
With rapid advancements in technology, IT professionals can specialise in niche areas like AI, cloud computing, blockchain, and DevOps. Career progression is often fast, and professionals can move between roles as they develop new expertise.
Qualifications and Skills Needed
What proportion of candidates as a percent we place into IT graduate careers and the typical qualities graduate employers look for.
GRB Placements for IT by Degree
Typical Candidate Attributes
Most IT graduate roles require a degree in Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering, or a related STEM subject. However, graduates from backgrounds such as mathematics, physics, and engineering can also enter IT, particularly in data analytics or software development roles.
Key skills for a career in IT:
- Programming – Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, SQL
- Cybersecurity Knowledge – Ethical hacking, penetration testing, risk assessment
- Cloud Computing & DevOps – AWS, Microsoft Azure, Kubernetes, Docker
- Problem-Solving & Logical Thinking – Essential for troubleshooting and innovation
- Networking & IT Infrastructure – Understanding of systems, databases, and servers
- Adaptability & Continuous Learning – IT evolves quickly, requiring professionals to stay updated
For roles in web development, UI/UX design, or front-end engineering, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React and Angular are key skills.
Those pursuing IT consulting or business-related roles will benefit from knowledge of digital transformation, project management (Agile, Scrum), and business strategy. Many professionals also gain industry-recognised certifications such as:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect (for cloud computing)
- Cisco CCNA (for networking)
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) (for cybersecurity)
Application & Recruitment Process
The IT graduate job application process is structured and often includes multiple stages:
- Online Application & CV Submission
- Highlight technical skills such as programming languages, cloud computing, and cybersecurity expertise.
- Showcase personal projects, internships, or extracurricular coding experience.
- Demonstrate analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Technical Tests & Coding Challenges
- Many employers use platforms like HackerRank, Codility, or LeetCode to assess coding ability.
- Expect challenges on data structures, algorithms, and system design.
- Cybersecurity and cloud roles may require specific problem-solving tests.
- Interviews (Technical & Behavioural)
- Technical interviews may include whiteboard coding challenges, system design discussions, or troubleshooting scenarios.
- Behavioural interviews assess teamwork, communication, and critical thinking.
- Some roles, such as IT consultancy, may focus more on business problem-solving rather than technical skills.
- Assessment Centres (For Large Employers)
- Group projects, logical reasoning tests, and business case studies.
- Presentations or problem-solving tasks to assess teamwork and leadership potential.
Some IT roles, particularly in startups and smaller firms, may have a more flexible recruitment process, focusing on portfolio work, open-source contributions, or direct technical assessments.
Is IT the Right Career for You?
A career in IT is ideal if you enjoy problem-solving, working with technology, and continuous learning. It offers excellent job security, competitive salaries, and the flexibility to work across different industries or even freelance. However, the industry evolves rapidly, requiring professionals to stay updated with new technologies, tools, and frameworks.
You might thrive in IT if you:
- Enjoy working with computers, coding, or problem-solving.
- Have a logical and analytical mindset.
- Are adaptable and willing to learn new technologies regularly.
- Like working in teams and collaborating on complex projects.
If you are interested in the future of technology, AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data science are some of the fastest-growing areas offering exciting career opportunities. With the right skills and experience, an IT career can lead to leadership roles, entrepreneurship, or even global job opportunities.
Sources for Further Information
British Computer Society www.bcs.org.uk
British Web Design and Marketing Association www.bwdma.org
Internet Service Providers Association www.ispa.org.uk
British Interactive Multimedia Association www.bima.co.uk
Computer Services and Software Association www.uk-csa.org.uk
Business Application Software Developers Association www.basda.org