A computer science degree is incredibly valuable in the UK job market. In a report in October 2024, TechUK noted that 95% of tech employers (particularly SMEs) have experienced skills shortages, including in software engineering and cyber security. A UK government study shows that around 70% of cyber firms report at least one "hard-to-fill" vacancy, with over half of those firms attributing the difficulty to a shortage of technical skills.
But, what jobs can you realistically look to apply for once you graduate? We’ll look at the top five roles you should be able to apply for once you finish your time at Coventry University.
Software engineer/developer
Software engineers and developers are the creators behind the apps, games, websites and systems we all rely on every day. They turn ideas into functional technology, whether that’s designing a new mobile app, building the systems that keep hospitals running or developing the AI tools shaping the future.
It’s a career for problem-solvers, builders, and people who love figuring out how things work. As a professional in this field, you’ll write code, design solutions, test your creations, and constantly innovate. No two days look the same — one moment you might be debugging a game feature, the next you’re working with a team to design a new cloud service that millions could use.
Software engineering is also one of the most in-demand and well-paid careers in the UK. Every sector now needs skilled developers, meaning you can work in fields like gaming, fintech, cyber security, health tech, robotics, entertainment and so much more.
Data analyst/data scientist
Data analysts and data scientists are the detectives of the digital world. As a data analyst, you’ll uncover insights hidden inside huge amounts of information. You will also help companies predict trends, make smarter decisions and solve real-world problems.
Using coding, statistics, machine learning and visualisation tools, you might forecast customer behaviour, detect fraudulent activity, or even help researchers cure diseases.
It’s a perfect role if you’re a curious thinker who enjoys spotting patterns, asking big questions and turning complex data into clear answers. As data continues to drive every industry, from sport and gaming to climate science and finance, skilled analysts and data scientists are in incredibly high demand.
Cyber security analyst/consultant
Cyber security analysts and consultants protect the systems, networks and data that society depends on. In this role, you would be one of the guardians standing between organisations and cyber threats, investigating attacks, identifying weaknesses and building strong defences.
One day you might be analysing suspicious activity, the next you’re running penetration tests to uncover vulnerabilities or advising companies on how to stay secure.
As cyber threats increase across the UK and globally, cyber security professionals are essential, and the field is packed with exciting, meaningful opportunities.
Systems analyst/IT consultant
Systems analysts and IT consultants help organisations use technology more effectively. They sit at the intersection of people and tech, understanding how a business works, identifying its challenges and designing solutions that make everything run better.
On a day-to-day basis, you might analyse workflows, improve databases, test new software, or help roll out large-scale IT systems. It’s a career that blends technical knowledge with communication, teamwork and strategic thinking.
If you enjoy solving problems, improving processes and working with different teams, this is a dynamic and impactful path with opportunities in almost every sector.
UX designer/web developer
UX designers and web developers shape the digital experiences we interact with every day. Web developers build the technical foundations of websites and apps, while UX designers focus on how they look, feel and function for users.
Together, they create intuitive, accessible and beautifully designed digital products, from e-commerce sites and mobile apps to interactive tools and online services.
It’s an ideal career if you enjoy blending design, psychology and technology. With the demand for high-quality digital experiences booming, skilled UX designers and web developers are more sought-after than ever.
Other available roles
You may wish to look at other roles as well. A computer science degree can provide you with the skills to apply for roles as a game developer, IT project manager, hardware engineer, forensic analyst and much more.
You might not even end up in a technical role. Many computer science graduates move into careers in business, finance and consulting. A computer science degree provides a large number of transferrable skills, whether that’s problem solving, prioritisation and communication, that will be valuable in other fields.
Looking to the future
The skills covered in a computer science degree can open many doors for your future career, spanning not just classic coding roles, but also data, security, analysis, design and consulting. The broad scope of the subject allows you to explore these different, in-demand areas and find the path you truly love.
A computer science degree will also provide you with the transferable skills needed to fill roles that don’t even exist yet. As the likes of AI, computer systems and more evolve into the future there will be new opportunities opening up. You will want to be at the forefront of technological developments to stay relevant in today’s fast-moving world of technology.
If you are looking for a career in any of the exciting, high-value fields discussed here, a Coventry University Computer Science MSci/BSc (Hons) degree can provide the perfect stepping stone.
