Is a Career Change into IT Really Out of Reach for Beginners?

Any change in career path is daunting, not only for the financial risks but for the fear of being the new kid on the block. The IT sectors is one of the most in demand for skill sets and experiences, but its technical qualifications put many off from joining it. Never fear! If you research properly and train yourself, it is never too late to have an IT career and be part of this flourishing industry.

Making that switch can be the best decision you ever make. What is the point of toiling away in a role that makes you bored or even unhappy? Working in IT and technology sector can be rewarding and stimulating. It is incredibly varied with many pathway options to embark and progress.

The first thing is to decide which area you want to focus on. IT professionals, especially cyber security, have been proven as the most popular profession employers are searching for. Check out our guide on how to break into IT security.

Other IT jobs include working in software developing, analyst, web design and technical support. These roles may require specific degrees like computer science and long-term training, but some accept vocational and apprenticeships for entry level positions. It all depends on how much time you are able to invest into getting the right position. We offer a range of flexible online courses that will give you the right platform to launch your IT career.

Courses range from beginner level to specialist certifications. Some account for the equivalent of the first 2 years of a university degree, allowing a speedier progression into the profession. Designed by globally recognised institutions such as Redbridge and Hudson, you can enrol anytime and access the material from anywhere, just as long as you have an internet connection. Many courses are career programs with job placement schemes included – so you are guaranteed an instant foothold into the sector after you complete your studies.

For example, our Cisco Networking for Beginners is the perfect starting point for those who are considering a career in IT security. It is designed for absolute beginners and assumes no prior technical knowledge. It guides you through the basics, helping you build a foundational IT literacy to understand and practise Cisco Networking after the course. You will be awarded with worldwide recognised CompTIA and Cisco certificates and valuable cyber security skills.  

We also offer a 12 month course that will certify you as an IT support technician. You will start at a basic beginner stage and finish with options to become a support analyst, consultant or network engineer. IT support is one of most widely sought roles and is considered the backbone of all companies. At the end of the course, you will achieve the prestigious Microsoft MCSA certificate which will prove your expertise to any employer.

For a pathway into data management, our SQL course will give you the perfect introduction. SQL is a programming language used for managing data systems, a skill highly desired by businesses. You will gain the Microsoft MCSA in SQL 2016 Data Administration certificate with an official badge that can be displayed on your CV.

Interested in becoming a web developer but can’t speak a word of code? Always wanted to work as a software engineer or have a role in video games, like a game designer? Our Full Programmer Bundle Course has it all; a foundational introduction into C#, Python and Javascript. Without requiring any prior knowledge to join, it will teach you how to code software applications, how to navigate fluently with HTML and how to add effects to web pages with CSS. Web developers are incredibly desirable as businesses aim to modernise their interface and digital reach.

Not all IT jobs are highly technical. There are many IT professional who have softer skills such as project managers, sales representatives and consultants. These roles will benefit from your previous experience and be seen as more of a stepping stone from your previous career history.

Our Microsoft courses are not only for IT jobs but will certainly fast-track your CV for all career sectors. You can stand out from the crowd by gaining expertise abilities in all Microsoft applications. The Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is internationally respected and will open paths to executive and senior positions in any role, especially administration and PA.

The great thing about IT is its flexible and foundational influence. Every company, from start-up to heritage, has an IT base. You can move across companies such as finance or marketing to suit your interests. If you are not sure which area to enter or if there are multiple ones you are interested in, try taking a couple of shorter IT courses. These can be completed after a couple of weeks during your own time and can be expanded on if you enjoy a certain one.