A qualification in information systems is fast becoming one of the most valuable assets available to graduates today. Information systems degrees set graduates up to act as a liaison between the boardroom and the server room, strategically assessing a company’s technological requirements and matching them with the needs of management.
Compared with traditional IT roles, information systems jobs are more concerned with how business organisations can relate to and benefit from the technology that makes them tick, as opposed to focussing entirely on the technology itself. As such, the skills gained from an information systems degree can apply across all manner of vital job sectors, and it’s no wonder that over 77% of information system graduates are in employment.
Here are three ways in which an information systems degree can lead to a career progression you might never have expected.
Travel the world
Although simply waving your degree at a customs officer won’t get you on a flight, an in-depth knowledge of information systems is almost as good as a passport. While the UK tech industry is experiencing a boom period, the World Economic Forum has predicted that worldwide tech jobs across all sectors will gain a significant boost by the decade’s end.
SAP (short for Systems Applications and Products) is one such area which is growing exponentially; this career path deals with creating a supply chain for logistics, finance and human resources, and can be applied to all manner of sectors. Considering that English remains the “international language of business”, including within the world of SAP, fluency in both can make graduates extremely desirable worldwide. In Eursap’s list of tips for landing SAP jobs, it is noted that a fluency in languages is “a big differentiator,” not just in English, but German or Mandarin Chinese speaking nations as well.
Explore different sectors
According to Business Insider Magazine, demand for computer systems analyst positions is set to rise by 21% by 2014. Information systems degrees are one of the most crucial foundations to getting a role in this fast-growing sector, as both draw on technological savvy, critical thinking and problem solving.
Data analysis jobs are also highly sought after across all sectors, from robotics to sports. There are countless resources online which can outline the so-called “less-publicised professions” where data analysis is an essential role. Consequently, a qualification in information systems is the ideal foot in the door for this career, and could open you up to working in your dream sector.
Be your own boss
While the majority of information systems management positions are full time, many of the roles undertaken by information systems graduates are on a freelance basis. Considering the growth of the industry and jobs related to the degree, the opportunity to control your own professional destiny may seem difficult to pass up. Experts suggest finding niche platforms within your industry through which to network, rather that getting swept away with the tide on mainstream job listing sites.
For those with a higher level of experience and a wide portfolio of contacts, a consultancy position is also an equally high-demand role. According to recent figures, digital and tech consultants make up 28% of the consultancy market share, and that figure is likely to rise with the industry demand. So by building your reputation as a freelance systems analyst now, you’ll be set for life.
