UCAS has witnessed a surge in applications for Computing Courses

As reported by UCAS, there's a climb in the number of school leavers opting for computing courses. As per the UCAS chief executive, Ms Clare Marchant, "Students are opting for computing courses due to the rise in digital and AI." 

There's an increase in the number of applications this year, up 10% compared to 2022. A record number of 95,000 students have applied for computing and AI-related courses so far. However, what is surprising here is that most applicants fall under the age category of 18 years. This also shows how the young generation is not just technology-driven but is also curious about expanding their knowledge in this field. Furthermore, there's a rise of 2% in the student number applying for computer games and animation and 4% in artificial intelligence in 2023. 

Chris Derrick, the deputy headteacher at Kelvinside Academy in Glasgow, stated that the students applying for computer courses had developed these skills from a young age. This is mostly because of the increasing awareness of AI and computing skills in society, which have led students to pursue a degree and make a career in this field. He added that programming skill courses are readily available these days; thanks to YouTube and ChatGPT, the young generation gets easy access to crucial information. 

The latest UCAS 2023 update shows a rise in female student numbers from 16% to 18%; however, the subject remains widely male-dominated. In one of his statements, Rashik Parmar, Chief Executive of BCS, the Chartered Institute of IT, revealed, "Teenagers in the UK know that AI will change the world forever; it shouldn't surprise us to see this soaring demand for computing degrees". One thing is for certain AI and computing skills have become an influential part of our daily lives. The young generation has turned their passion into careers by pursuing technology courses.