Computing and IT skills and careers
ICT and computing graduates are in demand by service and user organisations alike, in a range of sectors.
Skills you can develop
As well as the specific subject knowledge gained from studying for an OU degree, you'll develop many transferable and work-related skills that are highly valued by employers and which will increase your employability.
For Computing and ICT students the employability skills you will develop will include the ability to:
- draw together, analyse and critically evaluate information
- cope with rapid changes in technology
- interpret, use and evaluate data
- put together reasoned arguments and question assumptions
- be effective communicators, capable of team working
- understand the principles, concepts and techniques associated with the technology of computers and digital communication systems
- identify and handle ethical, social and legal issues in relation to software development and use
- design, program, test and evaluate software systems
- manage time, learn independently and take on responsibility.
To see specific learning outcomes related to degrees in this area have a look at the OU Computing and IT Courses.
Many students wonder what they can do with a degree in their given subject area but it is important first of all to set things within a context - successfully entering a new career will depend on factors that are broader than the qualification itself because your work experience together with your personal strengths and characteristics will all play a crucial part in whether or not employers will accept you.
To check which skills valued by employers can be developed from studying a particular subject, look at the ‘What can I do with my degree?’ pages on the Prospects website.
The OU Careers and Employability Services define student employability as: 'A set of capabilities and achievements that support students in developing their careers, raising their aspirations and enhancing their contribution to society'.
Whatever your motivations for study, your goals and career aspirations, you are entitled to supported personal development planning either as an intrinsic part of your programme of study or through signposted optional activities. You can view our full Student Employability Policy Statement on our website.
If you’re a registered OU student, you can find further careers information tailored to your qualification at your Study Home site under the Succeed tab.
Student stories
I had worked for 22 years in a support role within the City in corporate finance, producing reports and large documents. While I was...
I left school with minimal qualifications and spent five years doing a succession of jobs...
To see the experiences of other OU students visit 'What do OU students do'.
OU qualifications
Find out more about undergraduate study and postgraduate study in Computing and IT and about all undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications at OU Courses.