The Gartner Group is warning of a worldwide shortage in IT personnel (Thompson 2008). The extensive use of web based media and the universal and widespread adoption of new technologies has resulted in a shortage of appropriately qualified graduates, globally, who possess the necessary technological skills in today’s rapidly changing business environment. Despite this growing demand for technological skills, recruitment on to degrees in computing based disciplines is declining.

This paper represents a snap shot of student interests, further education subjects studied and proposed degree subject for students in years 12 and 13, through the collection of data from students on Merseyside, and via statistical comparison of national degree applications and A level achievement for 2006 and 2007.

This study:
1. Identifies the issues that impact on the student’s choice of degree specialism
2. Determines what intervention is necessary to encourage students to choose Computing as a degree specialism
3. Identifies at what stage this intervention is would be most effective.
Thompson I, “Gartner warns of IT skills shortage, IT just not sexy enough”, vnunet.com, 08 Feb 2008