Do these jobs really require a degree ?

Tyrant^

Folks,

Ive been looking for a job in computer networks and I see most of the multinational companies have in their ads the first requirement is "Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline (or equivalent)".
The IT Degrees I know of mostly focus on software development which is completely different than networks and I dont see how having a degree would provide any substantial benefit for the required role.

Im just wondering what are your opinions on this. I suppose I am kind of worried that the HR departments are receiving my CVs and dumping them straight in the bin, but I do have certifications and relevant experience for the roles that I apply for.

Thanks

x43r0

I don't think so but a degree it easier to quantify as opposed to practical experience.


Some might call it lazy HR. I guess its just easier for them to ask for X degree as a min requirement

omen80

Tyrant^ wrote: »

Folks,

Ive been looking for a job in computer networks and I see most of the multinational companies have in their ads the first requirement is "Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline (or equivalent)".
The IT Degrees I know of mostly focus on software development which is completely different than networks and I dont see how having a degree would provide any substantial benefit for the required role.

Im just wondering what are your opinions on this. I suppose I am kind of worried that the HR departments are receiving my CVs and dumping them straight in the bin, but I do have certifications and relevant experience for the roles that I apply for.

Thanks

That's the problem with HR departments, they look for buzzwords and if they don't find them they just throw your CV in the bin. Same goes for recruiting agencies. You're always better off tailoring your CV for each position you apply for.
A degree in Computer Science mostly consists of programming but you are also exposed to operating systems and networks.
A network engineer is generally required to have some Cisco qualifications also though.

Royale with Cheese

I work in software development and 90% of my degree (computer science) is irrelevant to my job. It's just a HR thing. They can have their pick of many candidates right now and will use anything to weed the number of applicants down. I guess they also see it as some kind of proof you're capable of committing yourself to and completing a task.

CiaranC

Degrees from the ITs are very hands on. I did three years of networks, both theoretical and practical in lab settings with current cisco gear. The network modules were more or less just CCNA/CCNP with cisco stripped off the materials.

I notice even entry level support jobs are looking for degrees these days. Comes with the territory of a recession I suppose.

Tom Dunne

Think of a degree not in terms of the content covered, but in terms of achieving a certain standard in education. It is an, albeit crude, measure of ability in terms of work, problem solving and ability to meet deadlines.

That's what employers are looking for, and to be honest, I do not believe it has anything to do with the recession.

Mr. Loverman

Degrees show you are able to commit to something and can follow a system. Basically it reduces the risk somewhat that you're a flakey maverick.

Saying all that the company where I work say you must have a degree but in reality we don't care as long as you have good experience or seem like a good match.