Multimedia programmer : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, a degree/HND in the following relevant subject areas may increase your chances:

• interactive/multimedia technology or design/animation;
• computer science/software engineering;
• mathematics or physics;
• engineering or electronics;
• 3D design or digital art;
• graphic design/illustration;
• spatial design; fine/visual art.

Many university courses in multimedia and computer sciences have sandwich years in industry, which may be valuable for building up portfolios, and if you can offer previous hands-on experience, it is reassuring to employers hiring for entry-level positions. Employers will want to be sure that candidates have a strong programming background and so courses in mathematics, engineering, art and design may be a good entry route if you can also demonstrate aptitude and skills in multimedia applications.

Entry without a degree or HND is difficult in view of the intense competition, but having a strong portfolio or experience in designing personal web pages may help. Some employers may prefer graduates to Diplomates.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not necessary, though an MSc in Multimedia or similar may compensate for a non-relevant first degree.

An employer is unlikely to hire you without seeing examples of your work. Pre-entry experience is desirable and relevant vacation work, voluntary work, projects or placements will be an advantage. A flash disk, CD-rom or personal website demonstrating a broad skill set can be used to support a CV or application form. It is important to build up a good personal multimedia portfolio to demonstrate skills and creativity; this might include an interactive website, an animated computer game, or learning or presentation materials incorporating a variety of media.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• interactive design skills such as user/task analysis and interface design/evaluation;
• programming skills such as authoring, engineering and quality testing;
• understanding of layout, design and graphics;
• endless enthusiasm;
• ability to work effectively in a small project team;
• good communication skills;
• logical approach to problem-solving;
• ability to manage a complex range of tasks to meet deadlines.

Employers also usually look for knowledge and experience in a combination of:

• relevant software, such as Flash, Photoshop, Flex;
• programming languages, such as C++, Java, .NET;
• scripting languages, such as Actionscript 2 + 3, Javascript including AJAX, Ruby, SQL, PHP, XML, CSS, XHTML.

Actual employer requirements vary depending on the sector and the platform being used.

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