Abstract
This study examined the requirements of IT employers for university graduates on hard and soft skills, courses, and internships. The researchers examined important skills and tools in the labour market and attitudes toward various courses and internships. After conducting qualitative interviews with 10 employers in the IT field and thematic analysis, several key points were identified. Firstly, mathematical, fundamental, or deep knowledge of one programming language is more important to employers than basic skills in several programming languages. The importance of English language, algorithmisation, programming logic, and the logic of previously written programming code was also emphasised. Secondly, soft skills like communication, adaptation, teamwork, and time management are crucial, but employers also mentioned the importance of emotional intelligence, prioritising tasks, and desire to develop and learn. Thirdly, employers have a critical attitude towards courses and internships because there are many factors, such as direction, quality, content, and the type of final certification. The paper discusses the problems and opportunities of universities and students for successful training and employment, and the results will be useful in IT education.