Studies: Majority of IT students drop out of university
Of all new information and communication technology (ICT) students since 2015, 60 percent have dropped out of universities, and of those who have left for jobs, most are not working for ICT companies.
Two studies, one on reasons for ICT students dropping out, and a second on ICT students working, showed that 90 percent of masters degree level students have a job during studies, with 75 percent working in IT.
CentAR research center senior analyst Janno Järve said the main reason is financial. He said salaries in ICT are high and cannot be matched by scholarships or stipends, adding that often university courses are constructed to allow students time for jobs.
One study found that there is a great salary gap between those who finish studies compared to those who drop out to take a job, with the latter earning far less.
Besides financial reasons, many quit university because they are unhappy with the courses offered or the organization of study. Of those who quit, slightly over 50 percent are happy with courses and study organization. That figure is 90 percent for fresh students.
The two studies concluded that the number of ICT students finishing studies in the set time is lower than in many other fields. ITC students do not work more than students of other fields, although they do work more in the masters degree level.
Editor: J.M. Laats
