10 Nov 2009
The number of graduates entering IT is falling according to a study by the Higher Education Careers Services Unit (HECSU).
The number of IT consultants, software professionals and computer programmers dropped 18 per cent from 2,980 in 2008 to just under 2,450 in 2009, while the number of graduates working as IT technicians or in helpdesk support decreased by 15 per cent from 795 to 675. The number employed as web developers or designers stayed roughly the same.
The rate of unemployed IT workers who graduated in 2008 increased 4.2 per cent to 13.7 per cent, according to the unit's survey.
The rate of unemployed IT workers increased 4.2 per cent to 13.7 per cent for those who graduated in 2008, according to the unit's survey.
The average salary for IT professionals was £22,941, a 3.1 per cent increase on 2007, and £3,000 above the average graduate salary of £19,677.
The average salary for IT service delivery remained the same at £18, 579.
Mike Hill, chief executive of HECSU said the recession was now having a serious
impact on employment in the sector.
Hill said: "It’s likely that unemployment for 2009 graduates may be even higher than that reported here. However, graduates shouldn’t feel disheartened, many organisations are still recruiting and a degree will certainly remain valuable for many years to come."
Though this research shows unemployment among IT workers has grown, it is estimated that the UK technology sector still needs 140,000 entrants per year to sustain itself. A reduction in the number of IT graduates entering the industry will therefore be detrimental to any ambition the UK may have of becoming a world leader in technology.
It is the responsibility of government, businesses and academia to guarantee the long-term supply of IT skills is a priority, despite the recession. More importantly, students must be encouraged to study the IT skills required by business, such as the ability to maintain the core systems upon which most organisations will continue to rely for years to come. Given the correct encouragement and a strong skills base, the IT industry is well-positioned to lead Britain out of recession, generating wealth, prosperity and jobs for the future.
Posted by: Darin Edmunds 12 Nov 2009
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