What is IT and computing?

If you’re good with computers, there are many different careers available in IT and computing. There is a difference in the fields of IT and computing. Working in IT typically involves designing and operating networks and databases as well as installing, organizing and maintaining computer systems. A computing career focuses on programming computers and using mathematical algorithms.

Areas in IT and Computing

There are a large number of areas in IT and computing that you could focus on to build a career in. Here are some of the most popular areas:

Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

The industry of robotics is related to the engineering, construction and operation of robots. This is a diverse field which can be related to various commercial industries and consumer uses. Artificial intelligence involves creating intelligent machines that work like and react like human beings. Artificial intelligence is used in areas like speech recognition, planning and problem solving.

Computer Games Development

This area of IT and computing involves developing video games. PC and console games are developed in stages, including pre-production, building prototypes and then full-scale development. Many different people work on the development of computer games, so you could work in a role like a designer, a programmer or a tester.

Computer Forensics

This is a branch of digital forensic science. It’s mostly used to investigate a variety of computer crimes but it can also be used in other areas. The aim of working in computer forensics is to examine digital media. This involves identifying, preserving, recovering, analysing and presenting facts and opinions regarding digital information.

Why study an IT and computing course?

A higher education qualification is not always a prerequisite to working in an IT or computing career. However, to get started in some areas of this industry, it helps if you have a qualification like a degree. The more specialised a job position is, the more likely you are to need a relevant qualification. If you decide to enrol with a university course, there are plenty of courses available throughout the United Kingdom that offer learning in both broad and niche areas of interest.

Career Outcomes from an IT and Computing Course

There are wide range of career outcomes from completing an IT and computing course. You could become:

• An App Developer: This role involves designing and building mobile applications for PCs and other devices. You will typically need to do a degree in courses like computer science or software engineering.
• A Cyber Intelligence Officer: In this position, you would gather data about where threats to IT systems come from and how they operate. You will usually need to gain a degree in a subject like computer science or cyber security.
• An IT Project Manager: This involves overseeing the development and installation of hardware and software systems. You will usually need to have a degree in a subject like computing or information systems.