Are you an experienced professional wishing to advance your tech career or a young IT professional looking to learn the necessary skills?
You might have already completed your Business Analysis Training and think, “What’s next?” If so, you must have certainly considered the idea of joining a professional body such as the British Computer Society (BCS).
But is the British Computer Society Membership truly worth it? Does it provide enough value to justify the effort and financial expenditure?
This blog will explore these questions through a cost-benefit analysis, helping you decide if BCS membership is the right step for your professional journey.
Table Of Contents
- What is the British Computer Society?
- The BCS Membership Costs: What Do You Pay?
- The BCS Membership Benefits: What Do You Gain?
- The Real Question: Is BCS Membership Worth It?
- Conclusion
What is the British Computer Society?
First, let us analyse what this society is all about. The British Computer Society, or BCS as it’s widely known, is the Chartered Institute for IT in the UK.
It was established in 1957 with the goal is to advance computing and IT standards of excellence.
The company grants several membership levels, ranging from Professional and Fellow grades to Student and Associate memberships. Every level has advantages and expenses.
The BCS Membership Costs: What Do You Pay?
When we discuss BCS membership costs, it is not limited to the membership fees alone. Yes, that’s the first thing that comes to mind, but other elements must also be considered.
Membership Fees
Your chosen level of membership determines the fees. Here’s the fee structure as of 2024:
- Student Membership: About £20 yearly.
- Associate Membership (AMBCS): About £99 per year.
- Professional Membership (MBCS): About £143 annually.
- Fellow Membership (FBCS): About £179 per year.
These fees could seem fair or excessive depending on which stage of your career you are in. But even a £99 annual cost may be substantial for those who are starting their career.
Time Investment
Beyond the money, the time you spend also comes as an expense. Participating fully in the BCS, using events, Special Interest Groups (SIGs), or even volunteer work, requires a time commitment. If you combine studies, employment, or both, this might add up to a significant outlay.
Additional Costs
Although many materials are free for members, some certifications, classes, or special events may cost extra. These add up to the total cost if you want to maximise what BCS provides.
The BCS Membership Benefits: What Do You Gain?
Let us now discuss the possible advantages. Any investment—in time, money, or effort—must produce a return. A BCS membership has the following benefits:
Professional Recognition and Credibility
Being a BCS member offers one main advantage: professional recognition. Having AMBCS, MBCS or FBCS along with your name will let colleagues, companies, and clients know that you maintain high standards and take your professional growth seriously.
Access to Resources and Knowledge
Members of BCS get access to several resources free of cost. From industry studies and research papers to webinars and specialised periodicals, there is an abundance of materials to keep you current.
These materials can be quite helpful for anyone preparing for certifications or wishing to focus on a particular field.
Networking Opportunities
Let us not undervalue the influence of networking! Online and offline, BCS organises a range of events where members may network with other professionals, business leaders, and possible mentors.
Whether you’re participating in an online SIG or a local branch event, these networking chances can open doors that might otherwise stay closed.
Professional Development and CPD
In IT, Constant Professional Development (CPD) is vital. Structured CPD options presented by BCS membership let members monitor their learning and skill improvement.
It’s a fantastic approach to guarantee a constant development that is in line with industry standards.
Discounts on Certifications and Training
BCS provides discounts on certain certifications and training courses. These reductions could save money if you seek certifications like the Chartered IT Professional (CITP).
The Real Question: Is BCS Membership Worth It?
Your job role, professional objectives, and degree of willingness to interact with what BCS provides will mostly determine this.
For Students and Recent Graduates
If you are a student or just starting your career, the less expensive Student Membership offers excellent value.
You can access materials, begin networking early, and understand industry trends for a nominal charge. The actual worth, though, will come from how actively you engage with what is offered.
For Mid-Level Professionals
Professional Membership (MBCS) benefits are valuable for those who have a few years into their careers.
You probably want to establish credibility, grow your network, and maybe work towards more certifications.
The investment could also bring new employment prospects, better wages, or more seamless career changes.
For Senior Professionals
A Fellow membership (FBCS) would help seasoned professionals, especially those in leadership roles, better establish their reputation and create fresh opportunities for influence and contribution in the IT industry.
Still, the advantages will probably be less obvious and more about thoughtful leadership, status, and community service.
Conclusion
So, is a membership in BCS worth it? The answer relies on you. As per The Knowledge Academy free resources, BCS membership could be a smart investment if you’re seeking a badge of respectability, access to a rich network, chances for continuous education, and a means of differentiating yourself.
But if you need more time to be ready to participate, that is, show up for events, use resources, and network, the value you gain might not be worth the expense.
It is worth it if you’re ready to take advantage of everything BCS offers!
