Solutions architect

You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in computing.

Relevant subjects include:

• computer science
• software development
• business information systems
• computing systems engineering
• cloud computing

Choosing a course that includes an internship or industry work placement could give you an advantage when looking for jobs.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You could apply to do a Digital and Technology Solutions Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

This takes around 4 years to complete and combines work-based training with academic study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

You can apply directly for jobs if you have experience in computing, for example software development.

It's also helpful if you have some experience and knowledge of the industry you want to work in, for instance banking, digital communications or retail.

Career Tips

You'll find it useful to have an understanding of service design principles, IT industry standards and agile project management methods .

Further Information

You can find out more about working and training in computing from:

• The Chartered Institute for IT
• techskills
• GOV.UK

As a solutions architect, you could:

• work with clients to understand what they need
• propose potential solutions to meet client requirements
• assess the strengths, weaknesses and costs of different options
• present recommendations to clients
• take part in the planning and design of the preferred solution
• work closely with other professionals in the project team
• manage the switch over to a new or improved computer system
• make sure the upgraded system works with other parts of the client's network both now and into the future

You could work at a client's business or in an office.