Admit it, have you also heard stories about how a schoolboy became a millionaire by creating an app in a garage? Or about the fact that they only take in IT with the "crust" of a prestigious university? The truth is somewhere in between. Let's find out if it is possible to build a successful career in IT without a diploma and where to get the very skills that will make employers forget about your "flaw" in the resume.  

Diploma vs Skills: Who chooses IT?

A university diploma is a base. It provides an understanding of algorithms, mathematical logic, and how systems work. But technology does not stand still: while universities are learning programming languages from five years ago, companies are already implementing AI and blockchain. 

Of course, a diploma from a prestigious university is a plus. But what if we say that companies like Google, Apple, and IBM have not required it for a long time? The main thing is to show what you can do. And where can you learn this, if not at the university? This is where additional education comes on the scene, and one of them is the IT STEP Computer Academy.

IT STEP: Global network, local capabilities

Founded in 1999, IT STEP today is an international educational network with branches in 22 countries, including the USA. In Kazakhstan, the academy is represented in 12 cities.

How does the IT STEP stand out from other courses?  

1. Learning that doesn't put you to sleep

There are no boring lectures about graph theory of the 19th century. The program is based on practice: You're immediately immersed in development, testing, design, or cybersecurity. The teachers are active IT specialists who know how to explain the difference between Python and Java.  

2. A diploma that is understood abroad

After graduation, you receive an international IT STEP diploma, recognized not only in Kazakhstan, but also in Europe, the USA and other countries. It's like a visa for your resume — it opens doors to foreign companies and startups.  

3. Career from day one

The Academy actively helps students and graduates in their job search. Many students start working during their studies, carrying out real projects. Imagine: you are studying, and your portfolio is already replenished with cases. 

What if I'm a complete zero in IT?

It's not scary! IT STEP offers programs for all levels: from "What is code?" to "How to optimize a neural network." 

For example, the Software Development course starts with the basics, and after a few months you will be able to create your own applications.  

By the way, flexible study schedule is not about "study whenever you want." It's about how you combine work, study and life without nervous breakdowns. Evening groups, online format, and curatorial support — you definitely won't be left alone with a 404 error here.  

How do I get started? 

Easier than setting up Wi-Fi!

1. Choose a course from programming to DevOps.  

2. Take a trial lesson — for free and without obligations.  

3. Create projects — the first results will be available in a month.   

And yes, an IT STEP diploma will be a great bonus. It will show that you have not just completed a course on YouTube, but have gained structured knowledge.  

Your code is your business card

You can build a career in IT without a university degree. The main thing is the desire to study and the correct choice of courses.

The IT STEP Computer Academy offers an international level of training, internship, and support that does not end after graduation.  

So, if you are one of those who is ready to change "What if?" to "I will do it!", take a look at the IT STEP website or at the nearest branch in Kazakhstan. Perhaps in a couple of years, it's your success story that will inspire someone to drop out of college and start coding.  

Sign up for a free lesson at the academy to find out which direction is right for you.

Phone: +7 (705) 535 35 53

Website: itstep.org

Instagram: itstep.astana

Astana:47 Syganak St., Eurocenter Business Center, 6th floor

P.S. By the way, Steve Jobs didn't graduate from university either. But we are not encouraging you to drop out of school — we just remind you that in IT your skills speak louder than any diplomas.