How to Make a Computer Science Degree Relevant in the Era of AI
In today’s New York Times Business section, the headline read: “Computing Grads Can’t Find Work.” The article noted that “tech firms are embracing AI coding assistants, reducing the need for entry-level software engineers.”
For years, computer science has been one of the most popular majors for high school seniors — and for good reason. It promised innovation, growth, and lucrative salaries. But as artificial intelligence reshapes the tech industry, families are left wondering: Will my student’s degree still lead to a career?
Why General Computer Science Degrees May No Longer Be Enough
The truth is, coding alone isn’t the differentiator it once was. With AI capable of writing and refining code in seconds, students who graduate as “general” software engineers may face steep competition from automation.
This doesn’t mean computer science is a dead end — far from it. It means students need to be more strategic and specialize early to position themselves in AI-resistant fields.
Specialization: The Key to Staying In Demand
Instead of preparing to “work anywhere in tech,” students should target industries where coding requires deep subject expertise. For example:
Engineering fields – Mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineering all require control systems coding that AI can’t easily replicate without human oversight.
Finance & Business – Accounting systems, trading algorithms, and data analytics tools need coders who understand complex financial processes.
Actuarial Science – Predictive modeling and risk analysis rely on highly specialized code that requires mathematical and statistical fluency.
Niche Industries – Healthcare technology, biotech, and aerospace all need software tailored to industry-specific regulations and workflows.
When students pair computer science skills with specialized knowledge, they don’t just write code — they solve industry problems that AI alone can’t tackle.
Planning Starts in High School
For families, this means making college choices that go beyond “rankings” and instead focus on:
Schools with strong interdisciplinary programs
Opportunities for internships in targeted industries
Majors or minors that complement computer science
Career services that connect students to niche markets
The Bottom Line for Parents
AI is changing the landscape of computer science careers, but with the right planning, your student can graduate job-ready and future-proof. The key is identifying specialized career paths early and aligning their college coursework, internships, and experiences to that vision.
📩 Let’s create a personalized plan to ensure your software-minded student thrives in the age of AI.