A Crisis for Newly Minted CompSci Majors -- entry level jobs gone

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the challenges faced by newly minted computer science graduates in securing entry-level jobs, particularly in the context of rising unemployment rates and the impact of AI on the job market. Participants explore the implications of these trends on the value of computer science degrees compared to other fields, as well as the evolving nature of job roles in technology.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that unemployment rates for computer science graduates are significantly higher than for graduates in other fields, citing a Federal Reserve Bank of New York study.
  • Others argue that while AI is taking over many entry-level jobs, it is also creating new high-paying positions in machine learning, although these may be less accessible to recent graduates.
  • One participant shares anecdotal evidence of a brilliant individual who dropped out of a prestigious university and found high-paying job offers without a degree, suggesting a shift in the value of formal education in tech.
  • Historical parallels are drawn by a participant who reflects on past technological advancements that have displaced jobs, emphasizing the need for adaptability in the workforce.
  • Concerns are raised about the future of testing roles, with some participants suggesting that as AI systems become more complex, the demand for skilled testers will increase, while also noting the risk of AI replacing these roles.
  • Discussion includes the notion that AI may introduce new challenges, such as the need for subject matter experts to identify AI-generated errors or "hallucinations."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the impact of AI on job availability and the future of computer science degrees. There is no consensus on whether the situation is entirely bleak or if new opportunities may arise, indicating ongoing disagreement and uncertainty.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various historical job displacements due to technological advancements, highlighting the evolving nature of roles in the tech industry. The discussion also touches on the complexities of AI and its implications for job security and the testing profession, without resolving these issues.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to recent graduates in computer science, educators in STEM fields, industry professionals concerned about job market trends, and those exploring the implications of AI on employment.

  • #61
From the link in the above:

"I don't think AI is going to put lawyers out of business, but I think lawyers who use AI will put those who don't use AI out of business," he said. "And I think you can say that about every profession."

If you also do AI (as part of a double degree or even a master's), it really doesn't matter what your primary degree is; you will be ahead of those who do not do it. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, but the following would look great on a resume (note - admission is simply doing three subjects - you could even do it after HS - or during if you have what the great Jaime Escalante calls 'Ganas')

https://www.colorado.edu/cs/academics/online-programs/how-it-works

At my old alma mater, QUT, a number of their degrees (Engineering, Mathematics, Biomedicine) now include an optional fourth year, and you graduate with a Master's in AI and Data Science.

Thanks
Bill
 

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