The British Computer Society (BCS) has criticised the government's decision not to recognise IT as a subject important to public interest, saying the move will discourage new entrants to the sector.

From September, degree-level graduates wishing to take on further studies in the field of computing will be forced to pay their fees in full. Those studying science, technology, engineering or maths will continue to receive funding from the government, but IT-based courses are not to be included in this category.

This change will dissuade graduates from switching career paths at a time when the industry is in particular need of fresh blood, said Dr Mike Rodd, Learned Society director at the BCS.

"Given that the huge demand for IT workers far outstrips the pool of IT graduates, employers are looking for graduates from other disciplines," he said.

"This funding change slams the door on many who would otherwise look for some education to support their job change. We are gravely concerned that the government is prepared to gamble on employees and employers picking up the cost, especially given the significance of the IT sector to the UK’s economy."

The BCS said that it was a "fair principle" to prioritise funding for students without a first qualification, and said that it would encourage companies to pay for the training of new staff. But the advisory body maintains that the change of structure could hurt the UK in the long run.

“There appears to be a real lack of understanding on the part of the government about what will happen on the ground if this funding is removed,” said Rodd.

Elsewhere, a campaign group for the computer games industry has warned that UK universities are not giving their graduates the skills required for a career in development.

Of the 81 degree courses on offer at UK universities, only four are accredited by government monitor Skillset, according to Games Up?.