Are you passionate about data? Do you have a love for all things compute related? If so, then you might enjoy studying for a degree in Information Technology.

As part of the degree you will be studying both the theoretical and practical elements of web programming, systems analysis and internet security. Your modules will be assessed b a mixture of both written assignments and practical work, so it is important that potential students have flair for both aspects of the degree course.

Similarly, most Universities will expect undergraduates to complete projects of their own in order to pass their degree, so it is important for successful students to be self-reliant with a determination to do well.

With an average starting salary of £21,712 per year for graduates with an IT or Computers Science degree, there are many options available to pursue.  While studying, undergraduates acquire the ability to communicate efficiently, work well in a team environment and develop their analytical skills alongside learning about Information Systems themselves.  As a result IT graduates are incredibly attractive employee to potential recruiters.

There are a whole range of career options available to computer science graduates. Initial jobs often include graduate trainee positions and entry level vacancies such as programmers, web developer and well as analytical roles within larger projects and corporations.

There is also the option for IT graduates to undergo further training in order to qualify in a more vocational role such as teaching. There’s currently a shortage of IT teachers within Primary and Secondary schools so many graduates looking to pursue this option could qualify for government funding.

If you want to study in the UK as a non-native speaker of English, don’t worry that this will harm your application. Universities welcome a number of foreign applicants each year on each course, as long as they are able to score a minimum of 6.0 on an IELTS test.

Most universities will specify that potential students have a minimum of 3 A-levels or equivalent and these should be in technology related fields; ideally IT. Students should also be able to demonstrate their passion for the subject matter.

The majority of IT degrees will take place over a period of 3 years, although many universities will offer students the opportunity to extend their course for a year between the second and final stages of the degree programme in order to partake in a work placement scheme. However, for those who wish to study only for 3 years, the course will cover IT theory and its application in the physical world.

While it is important that you choose a course that interests you academically, it is equally as vital that you choose somewhere that will also contribute to your happiness. After all for the next three years your University choice will define where you end up living! Make sure you choose a University which appeals to your personality. Are you a sociable individual, looking forward to spending time at student bars and gigs? If so, then choose to study in the heart of a thriving city. If you’re quieter, then smaller establishments with more of close-knit community may contribute more to your happiness.

One of the most important things to consider when making a decision over your degree is the calibre of your potential University and the course itself. Although the underlying theory of IT remains the same wherever you study, the specialist subject areas available will differ.  You should closely examine the course content to see which modules are offered and whether these appear to you specific interests. Once you have established that it is the right course for you, then check that they accept applications from potential students of your academic calibre. Will your predicted grades meet the entry level requirements?

 If you already know what you would like to do with your degree after you graduate, then look at the links your potential University has within related industries and the networking opportunities this will provide you with. For the majority of students, the purpose of attending University is not only to gain a degree, but also to increase levels of employability in the jobs market and so it is vital that you consider you potential career prospects while making your application.

When deciding where to study it is imperative that you consider the fees. Those struggling financially however, may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help fund their study. After having a look at your options, you should draw up a spending budget to help you make your decision.