I want a degree!

[Calum]

This is totally OT for a linux forum, but never mind, i have a feeling the people who post here will each have some input to a discussion of this nature.

I want a degree. Ideally, i want a degree which will put me in a good position to start applying for jobs in systems/networks administration of some kind. This is not a short term goal, i don't mind how long it takes, but i would like to work towards it. I have started studying part time, so i am only doing one course at a time (as opposed to taking several course at once, surprisingly) so it will take longer than normal for me to finish my degree, but that's good in some ways.

Anyway, i am currently doing the first course of my degree, and i want your opinions, whoever has the time or inclination to reply, about which direction to go in from here. Basically i have a few choices in the degree i can put this course towards, they are as follows:

BA/BSc (Honours) Computing and Mathematical Sciences
Description
If you're awarded this degree you'll be able to make an effective contribution to discussions and decisions about the use of and developments in computer and communication technologies. You'll understand the software aspects of computing and the issues to do with large-scale software development; and you'll be able to apply object-oriented analysis and design ideas and to develop small applications. You'll understand the notion of a mathematical approach and, depending on your choice of courses, you'll have gained at least one of the following:

• A broad understanding of, and practice with, basic ideas of modern pure mathematics (including analysis, geometry, group theory and linear algebra);

• A broad understanding of, and practice in using basic tools of applied mathematics (including mathematical methods, mathematical modelling and numerical analysis);

• Familiarity with a mathematical computer software package;

• A good foundation in the main areas of modern probability and statistics.

You'll be equipped with up-to-date computer skills together with the mathematical or statistical knowledge appropriate for jobs in fields such as engineering, business, finance, accountancy and education. You may need to undertake further training or study in order to enter a new career area.

BSc (Honours) Computing
Description
This degree will give you an excellent foundation for a career in computing. You will gain up-to-date knowledge of the principles and practice underlying modern computing. You will develop valuable analytical skills, expertise in object oriented programming and the skills needed for the design, implementation and management of sophisticated software systems.

Specialist Level 3 options offer you the opportunity to focus on highly relevant application areas such as databases, Internet computing or artificial intelligence.

Creating computing systems is not a solitary activity: it requires teamwork and people management skills. During this degree, you will get experience of tackling a software development task in a team. You will also undertake an individual project, so you can show how you are able to undertake a substantial piece of work on a topic you have selected. This project is not only valuable to employers as a show-case for your abilities and professional skills, it will also give you a solid preparation for graduate study should you be so inclined.

BSc (Honours) Information Technology and Computing
Description
If you're awarded this degree you'll have up-to-date knowledge of important concepts and trends in information technology and computing and their context. You'll be able to apply your knowledge and understanding in practical situations, and will have a range of relevant professional and key skills.

This degree should put you in a position to pursue a career in information technology, computing, communication technology and related fields, though you may need to undertake further training or study in order to enter a new career area. It may enable you to obtain professional recognition from the British Computer Society (BCS) or the Institution of Incorporated Engineers (IIE).

now that last one was the one i was going to go for, but do you think it will be sufficient? i am wary of getting a dud degree where nobody will want to employ me on the basis of it as i have seen that happen to quite a few associates and friends of mine. Or should i go searching at a different university to see what else is on offer? best to do that before i get too far into this one if i am going to do it at all...

what are the thoughts of the congregation?

[Tux]

I don't actually think that the difference between those two will reallly matter to you.
An employer is aware that your degree will not have covered exactly what you job title will entail, but doing those they can see that you have the intelligence to apply yourself to degree level study and all of the ones you just posted are revelevant and that's important. What would be nice is a course where you have a choice of specialisation for a project.
They all look good, but I agree with you that the second one looks most applicable. I don't belive you will find anything more specialised to systems/networking, computer science is probably the best you will get.

I don't really have much input here, but I have myself been looking at different computer degree courses. They don't seem to specialise greatly.
Good luck on your search.

[ThePreacher]

Dont just get a degree, try for your A+, N+, CCNA, Oracle DBA and all of the certifications you can get. It will only help when you graduate and must get a job.

[agent007]

Is a degree really that important to get a good job? I thought that employers wanted more of the hands-on type. Btw, what about a diploma?

007

[X11]

BS means exactly that BS!

From what I here anyway, maybe you should goto MIT.

Actually, Im going to start a commune for geeks, it will be self-sufficent, and there will be no money. I just need money to start it. Oh well, ill work somthing out, actually I need people to start it, people in once place.

How is this relevant?
Because you want a degree because you want a career, career is a capitialism keywork, which I will not go into, a geek comune is what we need.

[Copperhead]

BSc (Honours) Computing
Description
This degree will give you an excellent foundation for a career in computing. You will gain up-to-date knowledge of the principles and practice underlying modern computing. You will develop valuable analytical skills, expertise in object oriented programming and the skills needed for the design, implementation and management of sophisticated software systems.

Specialist Level 3 options offer you the opportunity to focus on highly relevant application areas such as databases, Internet computing or artificial intelligence.

Creating computing systems is not a solitary activity: it requires teamwork and people management skills. During this degree, you will get experience of tackling a software development task in a team. You will also undertake an individual project, so you can show how you are able to undertake a substantial piece of work on a topic you have selected. This project is not only valuable to employers as a show-case for your abilities and professional skills, it will also give you a solid preparation for graduate study should you be so inclined.

I've read some of your posts on this forum, and this sounds like it suites you perfectly. You get to learn about programming, work in an environment where you can persuade push/pop others (to open source I hope ), and lintroduces you to higher levels of the degree like computer construction. Object Oriented Programming is the keyword in that phrase. They will probably start you off in C++ or Java. Most, if not all, of the Gtk or Qt stuff you see in *ix incorporates this.

It is a good place to start. Actually, I probably shouldn't be giving advice, since I am a confused student as well

I started off in the first topic you listed: BA/BSc (Honours) Computing and Mathematical Sciences . Very tough. If you have the patience to work with the level of mathematics it involves, I'd say go for that. Otherwise, start with the programming degree.

[Tux]

BS means exactly that BS!

From what I here anyway, maybe you should goto MIT.

Actually, Im going to start a commune for geeks, it will be self-sufficent, and there will be no money. I just need money to start it. Oh well, ill work somthing out, actually I need people to start it, people in once place.

How is this relevant?
Because you want a degree because you want a career, career is a capitialism keywork, which I will not go into, a geek comune is what we need.

nah I was looking into MIT it cost way to much, you can get the similar courses in England for literally 10x less money.
Although I suppose you don't get the MIT kudos, but at the end of the day once you're into a job it matters what you *can* actually do.

[Linux Frank]

Well Calum if you would allow me to make a few comments. Get the most general and the toughest qualification you can. Make sure you do something that will stretch you, trust me you would not be happy with breezing through a BA (people with independant lives never are), and at the end of the day the tougher courses teach you more, and hence they increase your blagging capabilites, which in the technical sectors is one of the most important skills you can get.

My suggestion is the computing in Maths would be the best, but it depends where you want to go. That one is for someone who is undoubtedly looking to go for a Masters, and maybe going PHD (it is aimed at algorithm and encryption types, maybe those heading for embedded design or ASIC). I would forget the last one. A degree for Information Technology. Sorry if I upset people but that is buzz word learning, the practical details of the course do not seem to be up to much. I'd probably say that the computing one is right for you. A little of everything and offers a better employment resume. Remember the most important thing a qualification gives you is the first job you get from it. That is where employers look after seeing you have a relevant degree.

I'd also try and get a job with a company that knows you are aiming this way, they might put you in at the bottom level and allow you to work up as your skills improve. As you are taking a long time this is important, because degrees in computing will run out of date very quickly compared to other types, and it is easier to keep up with the game if you are involved with it through work.


Edit : Oh yeah, go to MIT, I can wave at you while you work away at your degree.

Edit 2 : Oh and yeah again, excuse my manners, best of luck, nice to see people trying to achieve something more than the easy road.

[X11]

Why not write a book?

I actually know a guy who will have a book about all kinds of things published soon.

[ThePreacher]

BS means exactly that BS!

From what I here anyway, maybe you should goto MIT.

Actually, Im going to start a commune for geeks, it will be self-sufficent, and there will be no money. I just need money to start it. Oh well, ill work somthing out, actually I need people to start it, people in once place.

How is this relevant?
Because you want a degree because you want a career, career is a capitialism keywork, which I will not go into, a geek comune is what we need.

LOL!!!

A degree is not bull oops, look in the newspaper, 90% of IT jobs require at least a bachelors degree. Trust me, I know. I can tell you right now the importance a degree has in the IT industry. Ive been trying to get a job with a lot of skills and no paper to back that up, and they dont even look in my direction twice. But all is not bad, Im graduating within a year with a bachelors in computer science. The truth is also that I really did learn quite a bit from taking college classes. Especially the programming classes.

[agent007]

Can someone pls tell me if a diploma in computer science compares to a degree? Is it OK for a good job in the IT field? coupled with other certifications that is....

007

[ThePreacher]

Can someone pls tell me if a diploma in computer science compares to a degree? Is it OK for a good job in the IT field? coupled with other certifications that is....

007

Well Im guessing a diploma for you would be similar to an associates degree. I personally have an associates degree in computer info. systems, and I have had a hard time getting a job. But with the right certifications it might be enough at least to get started.

[agent007]

Guys,

DO u think its too late to enroll for a degree programme at the age of 23? Whats ur opinion?

thanks.

[Void Main]

23 too old? Mwuahahahahahaha!!!! Too old? Hah ahaahaha!!!! Uh, no that's not too old.

I would somewhat agree and disagree with comments in this thread. I don't believe it matters a lot right now whether you have a degree or not, everyone is having a hard time finding a job. You will see many job listings that say they require a BS OR an equivelant number of years work experience. If you don't already have the experience then get your degree. I personally prefer experience over the degree but there are many places that do not agree with the way I think. At any rate, having a degree certainly will not hurt you, except for possibly increasing your debt.

[agent007]

Thanks for the info VoidMain.....Gave me quite a relief. Will be moving to NZ to get one.

thanks.