IT'S official it's no longer uncool to work with computers.

For a long time derided as the preserve of geeks, working in IT is now chic.

That's the finding of a survey of 1,500 university graduates released today, which showed that nine out of 10 thought information technology an acceptable career to choose.

The survey was carried out by recruitment consultants Computer People, who believe the change is due to more people using computers as part of everyday life.

For example, downloading music and playing it on iPod and other mp3 players is now far more common than three years ago.

Managing director Adam Fletcher said: "Over the last 18 months we've seen a 20 per cent increase in the number of graduates applying for IT positions."

IT graduates are on starting salaries of up to £30,000, said the report.

Swindon's British Computer Society, which gives support to IT professionals, agrees with the findings.

Spokeswoman Victoria Reinthal said: "The IT profession has always suffered with a misconceived perception that IT is for geeks.

"But the notion that a career in IT is just for computer programmers is outdated.

"IT is an integral part of 21st century life with a variety of career options including graphic design, games design and working within the media.

"One of the BCS's objectives is to raise the profile of the profession and it is especially keen to attract more females into the industry.

"As technology is advancing at such a phenomenal rate, the opportunities for IT enthusiasts are endless."

Paul Jameson is the managing director of Outsource UK, a Swindon recruitment consultancy specialising in IT.

He said: "We've been going for 14 years in Swindon and we've seen a big change.

"At the beginning people were quite techie, with tank tops and things, but now it is a much bigger career than it used to be, as all walks of business life involve IT.

"We look for business-focused people who can communicate with users in different departments.

"Rarely do we recruit proper techies any more, although they are still out there. The vast majority of people we recruit are normal."