Computer science ranks seventh among college majors with the highest unemployment rate, at 6.1%, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. That’s higher than many expect from a degree that has been promoted as a pathway to a secure and high-paying career. For years, the buzz around coding and tech jobs has drawn thousands of students into the field, but the reality is proving to be more complicated.
A Popular Major With a Hidden Risk
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The numbers don’t look great for computer science graduates. Physics majors face an unemployment rate of 7.8%, while anthropology tops the chart at 9.4%, and computer engineering, closely tied to computer science, comes in at 7.5%. Computer science may not have the worst rate, but it’s high enough to raise questions about how much security the degree really offers.
The contrast is surprising against other fields. Majors are showing unemployment rates that dip as low as 1.8% for nutrition sciences, 1% for construction services, and 3.4 % for civil engineering. These careers may not grab headlines, the data shows they are much steadier options at present.
What Went Wrong for Tech Grads
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The pandemic-era tech boom sparked a rush of students into computer science programs, but the job market didn’t grow at the same pace. Major companies, including Google and Amazon, scaled back and laid off thousands of employees. Many businesses also cut engineering budgets and outsourced roles, which left fewer opportunities for graduates.
Finance expert Michael Ryan compared it to a gold rush that ended just as more people showed up with shovels. Thousands of new graduates are entering the workforce every year, yet entry-level roles are disappearing. At the same time, companies want candidates with years of experience, strong portfolios, and proven track records.
Beyond the Degree
In a crowded field, prestige and background often matter more than raw skill. Graduates from prestigious universities or those with connections are usually selected first, which leaves others to struggle despite having the same training.
This gap between expectations and reality is leaving many students frustrated. They worked hard, chose a “top” major, and did everything they were told to, but the promised stability hasn’t materialized. Some are stuck chasing unpaid internships or taking jobs outside their field, just to get by.
What Students Should Keep in Mind
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The situation doesn’t mean computer science is a dead end. Tech jobs still exist, but the path is less straightforward. Building personal projects, contributing to open-source work, and gaining internships early can make a graduate stand out. Expanding skills into areas like IT support, cybersecurity, or data analysis can also open doors.
At the same time, career guidance may need to shift. Instead of presenting computer science as a guaranteed ticket to success, advisors and schools would better serve students by preparing them for the realities of the job market. A degree can help, but it’s not enough on its own anymore.
Computer science will likely stay one of the most popular majors, but popularity doesn’t always equal opportunity. For students considering the field, it’s wise to weigh the risks and plan accordingly.