Do you speak Python, Java or C++? If these programming languages don’t ring a bell, it’s time to get up to speed. While the digital professions are recruiting, the practice of code is attracting more and more people. Gone are the days when computing was reserved for the maths geeks and engineers. Today, many schools learn to code and master the basics of development in three or five years. At stake, a diploma recognized by the State, and the guarantee of finding a job. If it has not always attracted, this sector has become more democratic with new innovative pedagogies.
Courses inspired by Epitech, a pioneering school in the field, launched by the Ionis group in 1999. “Our pedagogy is based on the autonomy of the students, explains its director, Marc Drillech. During the first weeks, the new ones are immersed in the fundamentals of programming. They learn to work in a team and without a teacher.” This intense moment of initiation, baptized the Pool, was taken up by the seven campuses of school 42, Xavier Niel.
How to choose a computer school?
Contrary to popular belief, these training courses are not intended only for scientists, but for all those interested in digital technology. “A student comes home first out of passion, insists Thierry Debarnot, co-founder of Gaming Campus and president of Quest Education Group. He saw a series on Netflix, became interested in hacking or video games.” This successful entrepreneur also launched the Guardia Cybersecurity School in September, a five-year cybersecurity training course, which already has 140 students in Paris.
And the offer is only growing. In February, the network of Holberton schools, from Silicon Valley, will make its first comeback in Paris, after Lille, Laval and Toulouse. But beware, not all of these schools issue a state-certified university degree. In his case, the Holberton training will stick to a level 5 or 6 professional certification.
How to get into a computer school?
Rest assured, there is no need to master computers: many students will discover the code during their studies. On the other hand, a choice must be made when entering one’s wishes on Parcoursup. Because the engineering schools involve long studies, a selection by competition and, often, a passage through an integrated preparation. The engineering diploma issued by establishments such as Epita, Efrei or Insa constitutes a label of excellence with employers. But they require a substantial budget between 3,700 and 9,400 euros per year.
Unlike training courses that highlight a pedagogy by project like 42, they will also expect a solid scientific background. “An engineering student will have the right to a more general course, summarizes Marc Drillech. But all students will do at least four internships during their schooling”, he insists. Another trend is dual training to broaden the graduate’s field of skills before entering working life.
What opportunities after his degree in computer science?
No worries for the future of these students. Consulting firms, technology groups, digital start-ups do not wait until they leave school to canvass these future talents. They often do this right from the internship or work-study program. Data scientist, full-stack developer, cybersecurity architect… The industry needs all kinds of experts. And wages are soaring. “Most IT jobs don’t exist yet,” says one industry veteran.
In cybersecurity alone, 15,000 positions are vacant in France, according to Microsoft, which has partnered with the network of Simplon vocational schools to train its engineers.
The testimony of Florent Drilhon, graduate in Data intelligence and artificial intelligence master’s from ESILV in 2022: “I see myself in project mode for a few years”
In high school, Florent Drilhon did not project himself into tech. “The meeting did not happen right away,” recalls this ESILV graduate. I had not had the opportunity to touch computers before going to engineering school.” At the time, he was not a nerd, a term used to designate a person obsessed computer science.”On the contrary, I went to study engineering to give myself time to choose.” programming, before opting in the fourth year for the Data & artificial intelligence master’s degree.
Recruited at the end of his end-of-study internship, he now works at Manty, a start-up that helps local authorities in decision-making. “I wanted to start my career in a meaningful job.” Collaborate with tech giants? Not necessarily his cup of tea. “I see myself working more in project mode for a few years,” says the man who also imagines one day launching his own start-up and managing a team. In the footsteps of the Netflix or Spotify success stories that inspire him.
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