The IT industry is currently experiencing widespread skill shortages at a time when the demand for IT workers has risen by 21.9%.

Meanwhile admissions in IT courses have dropped by 46% since 2001 leaving some critics stating that the IT industry needs to do a better job of marketing IT as a career.

The days of the stereotypical IT worker sitting alone at a desk has changed quite significantly. Broader career prospects are now available to IT graduates such as working in banks, air traffic control, telecommunications or marine biology. International travel opportunities are also now available as IT is a portable skill.

However, it must be noted that most employees do want candidates with at least some experience so it is advised to choose a university that has an industry based component so as you can gain experience as you work.