For years, students were told that learning to code was a golden ticket to high-paying jobs in the technology industry. Encouraged by executives, public figures and national leaders, many pursued computer science degrees, expecting starting salaries well above $100,000 along with bonuses and stock grants.
However, the job market for new computer science graduates has taken a sharp turn. Layoffs at major tech companies and the rapid adoption of AI coding tools have reduced demand for entry-level programmers. Graduates are now facing some of the highest unemployment rates among recent degree holders, with 6.1 per cent for computer science and 7.5 per cent for computer engineering, more than double the rate for biology and art history graduates.
Manasi Mishra, a 21-year-old computer science graduate from Purdue University, spent a year applying for tech roles but only received an interview call from Chipotle. Similarly, Zach Taylor from Oregon State University has applied for over 5,700 tech jobs since graduating in 2023, securing only 13 interviews and no offers. Both describe the experience as demoralising, with some graduates even turning to non-technical roles to cover expenses.
The spread of AI coding assistants is making it harder for newcomers to break into the industry, with entry-level roles among the most likely to be automated. Many companies are also using AI to screen applicants, often rejecting candidates within minutes. This has left graduates feeling sidelined by technology they were once encouraged to master.
Some, like Audrey Roller, have tried to emphasise human skills such as creativity in applications, while others are exploring alternative career paths. Government jobs, once seen as an option, have also become harder to secure due to hiring freezes and budget cuts.
Despite these setbacks, some remain hopeful. Graduate Jamie Spoeri believes that adapting to AI could still open new opportunities. Tech education advocates are now shifting focus to AI training, with companies pledging major investments to prepare students for the evolving job market.
For Mishra, the challenges led her to discover a passion for tech marketing and sales. After applying for a sales role at a tech firm, she was hired and begins her new career this month.
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