Computing and IT

The rapid expansion of tech-related employment across the UK makes computing and IT one of the most promising career paths for Service leavers. From cyber security and cloud engineering to data analytics and software development, opportunities continue to grow as technology shapes every part of modern life. If you’re ready to translate your military skills into a future-focused, high-demand sector, this could be the perfect time to step into a tech career.

What’s involved?

Information technology (IT) covers all the systems and tools used to create, store, manage, and exchange information — from business data and cloud services to apps, digital media, and online communication. As an umbrella term, IT spans both computing and telecoms, forming the backbone of what is often called the information revolution. It involves everything from software and hardware to networks and cyber security, ensuring data is processed, protected, and accessed securely.

Because technology underpins almost every aspect of modern life, IT careers exist in every industry. You might be developing software, building digital infrastructure, analysing data, maintaining systems, or helping users solve technical problems. Whether in finance, defence, government, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, or the public sector, virtually every organisation depends on IT to operate.

The scale and variety of roles in this sector is enormous. As you’ll see in the ‘Typical IT jobs’ section, careers range from hands-on technical work to creative, analytical, or customer-focused roles — making IT one of the most flexible career fields available to Service leavers.

Skills shortages

The tech industry continues to face major skills gaps, especially in advanced technical areas such as programming, cloud computing, and systems architecture. Cyber security is one of the most urgent shortages, with demand for specialists far outstripping supply as organisations try to defend against increasingly sophisticated threats. This creates strong opportunities for roles such as cyber security analysts, information security officers, and risk managers.

Data centres and data analytics are also experiencing significant shortages. Employers are seeking people who can combine technical ability with problem-solving and an understanding of wider business needs. For Service leavers with strong numeracy, systems experience, or a background in secure operations, these gaps present excellent entry points into a growing and resilient industry.

Skill up while serving

Many Service personnel already work in specialist IT, communications, or electronics roles, giving them a strong foundation for civilian tech careers. Even those outside these branches often gain valuable technical and problem-solving skills that transfer well into areas like cyber security, networking, or systems support. Before leaving, it’s worth identifying where your skills best fit the civilian IT landscape and whether you need to upskill or specialise further.

A wide range of computing and IT training is available through the resettlement system, including courses from preferred MOD providers. These can help you update technical knowledge, gain industry-recognised certifications, or explore new areas such as cloud computing or cyber security—making your transition into the tech sector smoother and more competitive.

Get qualified!

Building your theoretical knowledge while still serving will give you a strong head start when transitioning into civilian IT roles. You can develop skills through individual study, online courses, college programmes, or distance learning, and then enhance them with hands-on training during resettlement.

The qualifications you need will depend on your chosen career path. Some roles require learning specific software, programming languages, or cloud platforms, while others focus on broader IT skills. Many employers welcome Service leavers with the right attitude, problem-solving ability, and willingness to learn—even if they lack previous commercial experience.

To improve your job prospects, try to gain experience linked to ICT, complete an ICT or business-related qualification, and demonstrate transferable skills such as communication, troubleshooting, and teamwork. Whether through conversion courses, work placements, or entry-level training routes, there are multiple ways to build the competence employers look for in today’s tech industry.

Computing and IT qualifications

Computing and IT offer a wide range of qualification routes, from academic study to industry-recognised technical certifications. Academic qualifications such as foundation degrees, HNDs and HNCs provide a strong theoretical grounding, typically in subjects like computer science or software engineering. For beginners, an A-level or GCSE in computer science can be a useful starting point.

Alongside academic study, there are practical, skills-focused options. NVQs (Levels 1–5) and apprenticeships provide hands-on training based on national occupational standards and can be supported through Standard or Enhanced Learning Credits, depending on the level. These qualifications are valued by employers and help build workplace-ready experience.

The fast pace of the industry means vendor certifications are also highly important. These demonstrate expertise in specific technologies from major providers such as Microsoft, Cisco, AWS or CompTIA. Most IT professionals hold a mix of generic and vendor-specific qualifications so they can operate confidently across different systems, platforms and technologies.

Whichever path you choose, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills will greatly enhance your employability and prepare you for further progression in this rapidly evolving sector.

Which course?

The range of IT and computing courses is vast, offering everything from short introductory sessions to full academic degrees.

Short courses (typically one to five days) provide focused training in areas such as wireless communications, IP networking, product development or traffic engineering. These are often privately delivered and tailored to specific skills gaps, with prices usually starting around £600 for a single day and rising to £1,400 for a week-long programme.

Further education (FE) colleges offer part-time courses lasting one to three terms. These lead to recognised qualifications such as the entry-level CCNA, IT User Qualifications (ITQs), NVQs, or City & Guilds awards. Costs usually begin at about £400 per term, and courses often require 10 additional hours of weekly study. Topics may include website design, programming, IT support and even public space surveillance (CCTV). These qualifications are well recognised within the telecoms and IT sectors and can provide a stepping stone to more advanced study.

Longer part-time or full-time courses, such as BTEC Diplomas or IT and Telecoms Apprenticeships, take at least a year and include workplace learning. Entry requirements typically include up to five GCSEs, although some programmes allow learners to gain maths and English alongside their studies. These pathways offer strong progression into the industry.

Higher-level training includes undergraduate degrees (e.g. Computer Science, Electronics with Satellite Engineering), postgraduate degrees (e.g. Telecommunications Engineering, Computing for Commerce and Industry) and doctoral programmes (e.g. Intelligent Systems, Distributed Computing). Professional doctorates suit those wanting to apply advanced knowledge directly within the workplace. Entry criteria vary, but A-levels or an Access to HE Diploma are usually needed for degree-level study. Costs range from £10,000 to £60,000 depending on the level and institution, though funding options may be available. These qualifications typically open doors to senior technical, consultancy, and management roles.

What’s out there?

There is an enormous variety of IT and computing courses available, ranging from entry-level introductions to highly technical programmes. Depending on your goals, you might explore options such as:

• Diploma in Engineering Computer Systems and Telecoms
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in ICT Systems and Principles, or Networking and Systems Support
• A seven-hour online course in Voice Switching, covering telephony, telecoms and VOIP
• Beginner-level part-time or weekend courses in basic computing, including common applications, software and digital skills
• Foundation Degree/Level 4 in Business Information Technology
• Four-day Database Administration course

In addition, the Open University offers a wide range of free IT and computing learning materials via iTunes—an excellent starting point if you're exploring your interests or building foundational knowledge before committing to formal study.

COMPUTING AND IT APPRENTICESHIPS
As mentioned above, this industry offers a host of highly relevant apprenticeships at different levels, with providers ranging from innovative SMEs to leading multinational companies. This page of the Prospects website is a great place to start your search. Alternatively, use your favourite search engine to discover more options. Or browse the government’s apprenticeship website (check out the ‘Digital’ section) or Find Apprenticeships, both of which allow you to search for apprenticeship opportunities by area of interest and location.

Professional vendor qualifications 

Professional vendor qualifications certify your skills in a specific manufacturer’s technologies. These credentials are valuable when the vendor is a major industry player, but it’s worth remembering that their relevance can change as technology evolves.

Microsoft certifications remain among the most recognised worldwide. Microsoft has replaced its older exams with a newer range of role-based certifications, designed to show that you can meet the demands of current technical job roles.

Microsoft isn’t the only major vendor in this space. Cisco Systems, for example, offers globally respected networking certifications, and many IT professionals hold a portfolio of vendor-specific qualifications to stay competitive across different platforms.

Professional bodies

CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association) offers a well-known suite of industry certifications that validate core IT knowledge and support skills. Developed by subject-matter experts, these certifications are widely recognised across the sector and often form part of broader ICT training programmes. They are commonly used as foundation-level qualifications for those entering technical roles.

BCS – The Chartered Institute for IT is the UK’s professional body for chartered IT practitioners. It provides a broad range of qualifications, from entry-level certificates to advanced professional exams that can be equivalent to honours-degree level. BCS certifications recognise both academic achievement and practical experience, supporting career progression through to chartered status.

Use your ELC

Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of learning can be taken, provided it is offered by an approved provider listed on the ELCAS website and is at level 3 or above. For full details of how to make the most of your ELC, refer to the in-depth features elsewhere on the Quest website

COMPUTER SAYS YES!

In this sector, it of course goes without saying that an enormous number of courses and qualifications are available to study online. However, it’s still wise to confirm with training providers that the course(s) you are interested in can be completed via this study route.

Finding employment

Securing a role in the computing and IT sector typically involves a mix of qualifications, hands-on experience, effective networking, and presenting a strong, targeted CV. Work placements or project-based experience can greatly improve your prospects, especially when transitioning from the Forces.

If you are moving into a role similar to your Service speciality, you may be able to enter at a comparable level. Those switching to a new technical area may start lower on the ladder, but progression can be rapid. Computing and IT is a fast-moving industry with vast opportunities; many professionals change roles or employers every few years as new technologies emerge and career paths evolve. With continuous in-house training and a strong demand for adaptable talent, Service leavers with the right technical and interpersonal skills can advance quickly.