Top emerging computing careers every teacher should know
National Centre for Computing Education
Every child in every school in England should have access to a world-leading computing education.
User Experience (UX) Designer
Ever wondered what career blends creativity, tech, and problem-solving? User Experience (UX) Design is all about making apps, websites, and digital products intuitive and enjoyable. UX designers research user needs, create prototypes, and test designs.
Students who enjoy creativity, problem-solving, and psychology will thrive in UX design. Key skills include design thinking, communication, and proficiency in tools like Figma or Adobe XD. With demand growing across industries - from gaming to e-commerce - UX design offers an exciting, future-proof career for those who want to blend technology with human-centred design.
We asked Sam, our UX and UI Designer, about why he loves the industry he’s in.
“My favourite thing about the UX industry is being able to empathise and translate the way people think into a functional product that benefits the community and makes their lives easier. You get to make the world a bit easier to understand.”
Cybersecurity Analyst
According to?the LSE, over 52% of UK businesses have experienced at least one cyber-attack since 2020, a number that is set to rise as hackers become smarter.
Ultimately, cybersecurity analysts are the digital world’s detectives, stopping attacks before they happen. From outsmarting hackers to protecting top-secret data, this career is fast-paced, high-stakes, and always evolving - perfect for students looking to make a real change in an important, in-demand industry.
You can introduce your class to the world of cybersecurity with our latest video featuring Veno Senthil, a Technical Support Manager at Cisco. Watch as she shares insights into the industry, the skills needed, and what it’s like to work in this exciting and fast-growing field.
Software and Applications Developer
According to Forbes, the demand for software and app developers is set to surge by 57% in the next five years! While software development isn’t new, the roles within it constantly transform with emerging tech and industries, offering students endless opportunities in an exciting and dynamic field.
It’s also important for students to realise that software development isn’t just about coding in an office; it powers some of the most exciting and unexpected careers. For instance, developers can create AI for video games, design software that controls theme park rides, fine-tune music streaming algorithms, and even program robots with personalities. With technology constantly advancing, students can shape the future in countless creative ways.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
As AI and machine learning develop at lightning speed, AI engineers are leading the charge. They design smart systems that analyse huge datasets, train models, and build applications that learn and adapt. From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, AI engineers are shaping the future one algorithm at a time.
Students with strong analytical minds, problem-solving skills, and a passion for technology will thrive in this field. Key skills include coding (Python, Java), data analysis, and an understanding of algorithms. With AI revolutionising industries from healthcare to entertainment, this career offers endless opportunities for those motivated by innovation.
Cloud Architect
Cloud specialists are shaping the future of digital infrastructure, ensuring businesses have secure, scalable, and efficient storage solutions. From Cloud Architects designing robust systems to Engineers and Security Specialists protecting data, this field is at the heart of modern technology.
Students who enjoy problem-solving, IT systems, and cybersecurity topics will excel in cloud computing. Key skills include networking, programming in languages such as Python and Java, and understanding cloud platforms like AWS or Microsoft Azure. As businesses increasingly rely on cloud technology, this career offers exciting opportunities in every industry, from finance to gaming and beyond.
Whatever the future holds, the National Centre for Computing Education is here to keep you informed with the latest insights and teaching strategies, helping you and your students stay ahead of the curve.