Jobs are just a click away for IT students

Computing students at Edge Hill University are building a strong reputation in industry as they celebrate the first anniversary of an innovative scheme to support businesses.

A year ago, the University's Enterprise Projects Team set up a unique initiative to get students to work with companies on a number of long-term IT-based projects.

Throughout the year they have designed websites, databases, mobile applications and other software for a number of organisations in the north-west region including hotels, law and security firms.

Spearheading these projects has not only increased employment opportunities for the students by giving them practical experience in a real work setting, but it has also generated additional income for the University.

As a result, all five graduates from the Computing and IT degree programmes have either walked straight into jobs or set up their own business. A couple now boast working for some of the UK's top technology firms such as Datel and The Hut Group.

Due to the success of the first year, the University is continuing this important work between students and businesses.

Michael Banford, Enterprise Projects Co-ordinator, explained: "The idea for this initiative first came about a year ago from talking to businesses that had projects for our students to work on that couldn't be fulfilled on short work-placements. Identifying and filling this gap in the market allows the students to utilise their project management and technical skills. By liasing with the clients, they are responsible for coming up with ideas for design, content, navigation and other business solutions. In the 12 months it has been running it has been a huge success and is having a positive impact."

A total of 14 projects have been completed or ongoing, they are generating income and enhancing the student experience. New partnerships have also been formed between the University and employers, who now have input into course content to ensure programmes meet the expectation of the jobs market.

Michael said: "This is a very unique scheme we are running here and the benefits are clear to see. Our students are able to gain first-hand experience working on live projects, which is proving to potential employers that they are more than capable of fulfilling their requirements when they leave University, and this is why they are being offered jobs as soon as they graduate. Plus, our unique links with these businesses ensures that we are tailoring our degree courses to suit the needs of our students and potential employers, which is a win-win situation all round."

Edge Hill Business School offers a number of courses in computing. You can train as a web developer or prepare for a number of careers in the IT industry. For more information visit the website www.edgehill.ac.uk/courses.