Getting a job with a pass IT degree

Corcs001

I recently finished college with an ordinary pass degree(because I'm **** with theory subjects) and was wondering how likely it would be to get a job abroad, preferably in the uk with this? I cannot go back to college unless I get at least a year's experience. Was looking at a few job sites and they usually say grad's must have a 2:1 or higher. Tis a bit worrying!

kizzyf

In fairness just apply for jobs. Most of the time they never ask you what type of degree you have anyway. Once you get some work experience it really does become irrelevant. I suppose in times like this when it's harder to get work employers may be more choosy but don't get too hung up on it.

leeroybrown

Work on improving your skills in your own time. If you get an interview having a decent range of skills that you've worked on your self always impresses. Consider getting some kind of formal certification in an area you're interested in. Using practical skills and experience to get yourself into an entry level helpdesk role then working your way up might be your best bet.

Unfortunately, you'll also need patience. There's another thread here at the moment started by a graduate with a 1.1 who can't find anything either. With only a pass degree you'll find it harder again.

MysticalRain

It depends on what area of IT you're aiming for. It probably matters more for software development than IT admin/help desk jobs. Although at the end of the day, it's experience that matters the most, and that's what screws graduates. The more you progress in your career, the less the caliber of your degree will matter. I think you should be more focused on gaining practical experience to put on your CV (either doing voluntary IT work, nixers on the side, or working on your own projects).

I haven't worked in the UK myself, but the impression I get from browsing jobs listings is that some UK employers can be quite snobby when it comes to recruiting graduates because of perceived dumbing down of university degrees. You'll see employers asking for applicants from "red brick universities only".

razorblunt

UK companies tend to really scrutinise results even down to having you compare your Leaving Cert points to there points which is a bit pointless really.

Like most have said acquire the skills in your own time, and apply anyway all they can do is say no.

hideous ape

Most people with IT qualifications regardless of level all go the same route after college. Entry level IT job like HelpDesk or Tech Support for 1 year of experience, that will get you on the list for the better job interviews. You will also learn a lot about yourself and your abilities/weaknesses. The pay is usually crap, some managers at this level can be utter bstards and the work can be tough but generally this first job will be the toughest:)

Companies hire people suitable for the job not a qualification suitable for the job. I have met some very highly educated idiots in my time. Some people were great at college but are next to useless in the real world. Once you have one years experience then apply for any job that you feel you could manage and is within your skill set. Most job specs are done by HR anyway, saw an ad looking for 1 years experience with Windows 7 before the Beta was even released???