The Benefits of Pursuing Information Technology Studies Post High School Graduation
Information Technology (IT) has become a popular choice for students after completing their 12th grade, offering a wealth of opportunities and benefits. Here's a closer look at why IT might be an excellent choice for those interested in technology and practical applications of computing.
Wide Career Opportunities
IT education opens doors to diverse fields such as software development, cybersecurity, mobile app development, digital marketing, animation, and web development. Companies like TCS, Microsoft, Amazon, and Infosys are actively hiring IT graduates [1][3].
Hands-on Practical Skills
IT courses emphasize learning programming languages (Python, Java, C++), database management, and system administration, equipping students with practical and job-ready skills [1].
Attractive Salary Prospects
The starting salary for IT professionals typically ranges between ₹4 to ₹6 lakh per annum, which can increase based on skills and experience [1].
Growing and Evolving Field
IT is a rapidly growing sector driven by technological innovations and digital transformation, ensuring continuous learning and growth opportunities [3].
Flexibility and Diverse Course Options
Students can choose from a range of degrees and diplomas based on their interests and goals, including B.Tech in IT, BCA, B.Sc in IT, and specialized diplomas in cybersecurity, AI, and data science [3].
Global and Startup Opportunities
IT skills are in demand globally, offering chances to work internationally or even start a tech-based business [3].
Compared to traditional courses after 12th, such as pure science or arts, IT focuses more on applied technology and practical implementation in business and industry, offering more direct pathways to employment in the digital economy [2].
Online Learning Opportunities
Online courses are available on platforms like Coursera, edX, and NPTEL, and are helpful for learning a specific skill or for those from remote areas with fewer college options.
Emerging Topics in IT
Emerging topics in IT include artificial intelligence and automation, tech in agriculture and climate science, and cybersecurity for small businesses.
Job Prospects and Advancement
With experience, IT professionals can advance to roles such as cybersecurity analyst, AI developer, data scientist, DevOps engineer, and full stack developer.
Cost and Scholarships
The cost of an IT course depends on the program, with diplomas costing a few thousand rupees and degrees being more expensive. Scholarships are often available.
Usefulness Across Various Fields
IT skills are useful across various fields, including finance, education, healthcare, and marketing. Three out of four jobs in the coming years will need digital skills [4].
Beginner Courses
For beginners in IT, courses like BCA, diploma in web development, or a beginner Python course are suggested.
Flexible Work Arrangements
IT courses offer flexibility in work arrangements, such as working from home or freelancing.
Career Outlook
IT is presented as a way to learn how to solve real problems that matter, rather than just a shortcut to a job. Degree courses in IT, such as BCA, BIT, BE/B.Tech in Information Technology, usually take 3-4 years and include both theory and hands-on training.
Accessibility for All
Commerce or arts students can also study IT, as many programs accept students from all backgrounds. Scholarships are available for IT students, such as the ICT Scholarship (Ministry of Education, Nepal), Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, Google Women Techmakers Grant, and university-based merit and need scholarships.
Stress and Eye Strain
IT careers can be stressful due to work pressure and deadlines. Long hours of screen time can lead to eye strain or fatigue.
Starting Salaries in India and Abroad
IT graduates in India typically earn between INR 3.5 to INR 7 lakh annually at entry-level, while starting salaries in countries like the US and Canada range from $50,000 to $80,000 per year.
Entry-Level IT Jobs
Entry-level IT jobs include web developer, support technician, junior programmer, and database assistant. After completing a diploma in IT, jobs such as web designer, IT support assistant, junior developer, or freelancing online are possible.
In conclusion, IT offers a strong combination of practical skill development, strong job prospects, good starting salaries, and continual growth, making it a valuable course choice after 12th compared to other disciplines [1][3].
[1] https://www.naukri.com/career-guides/it-career-guide-for-freshers-2022
[2] https://www.careerindia.com/career-guides/it-career-guide
[3] https://www.edexcedu.com/blog/it-career-guide-for-freshers/
[4] https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/01/digital-skills-future-of-work-world-economic-forum/
- IT education provides access to a multitude of career paths in various domains such as software development, cybersecurity, digital marketing, animation, web development, and more.
- Universities and colleges offer degrees and diplomas in IT, providing students with the opportunity to specialize in areas like cybersecurity, AI, data science, and more.
- Upon graduation, IT professionals can expect attractive salary prospects with starting salaries ranging from ₹4 to ₹6 lakh per annum, depending on skills and experience.
- IT careers have a promising outlook due to the sector's rapid growth, fueled by technological innovations and digital transformation, ensuring ongoing learning and growth opportunities.
- With the help of online platforms like Coursera, edX, and NPTEL, individuals can learn specific IT skills and pursue further studies even from remote areas.
- IT skills are valuable across various fields, including finance, education, healthcare, marketing, and more, ensuring a wide range of job opportunities in the digital economy.
