Creativity is More Important Than Math or Programming in ICT Studies; 'It's No Longer Coding All Day'

Creativity is now a more vital skill than traditional math or programming in ICT studies at Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, challenging the long-held image of ICT professionals solely 'coding all day.' The Institute for ICT is fostering a broader understanding of the field through diverse student projects.

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ICT is also making nice care robots for the hospital. It is quite a broad study.

Recent student work includes a prototype digital training environment for the military to experiment with mine placement and other obstacles, and a simulation model for the municipality of Nieuwegein to address heat stress and waterlogging through urban redesign. They also created a tool for eye specialists to assist dementia patients in eye tests.

These projects highlight the evolving nature of ICT, moving beyond pure coding to encompass problem-solving and creative application. This shift is particularly relevant as the Dutch government, through its 'Talent Strategy,' seeks to increase enrollment in critical sectors like digitalization and AI, aiming to align young people's career choices with future economic needs.

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At our open days, parents ask: does it still make sense to study ICT?

Despite a recent decline in ICT student numbers, partly due to concerns about AI replacing programmers, the demand for ICT professionals remains high. Over 15,000 ICT vacancies existed in the Netherlands by the end of 2025, with projections indicating a potential shortage of over 100,000 by 2030. While some employers are hiring fewer junior coders, the role of ICT professionals is expanding to include understanding the core problem behind a request and collaborating with clients, tasks that AI currently cannot fully replicate.

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What is true: some employers are hiring fewer junior employees.