Computer Science Among Highest Unemployment Majors US

Recent data reveals that computer science, once a highly sought-after major promising strong job prospects, now ranks seventh among college majors with the highest unemployment rates at 6.1%. This trend is surprising given the field's previous growth during the COVID-19 pandemic and its popularity among undergraduates, but recent tech industry layoffs from companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have contributed to a saturated job market. Related fields such as computer engineering also face high unemployment rates, while some majors like nutrition sciences and civil engineering report much lower rates. Experts note that many graduates have unrealistic expectations, assuming that a computer science degree guarantees employment, but competition, employer preferences for proven skills, and the reputation of candidates' universities present significant hurdles. The rising unemployment among recent graduates is part of a broader trend affecting young job seekers, with Gen Z households receiving unemployment benefits increasing significantly. This situation underscores the need for students and educators to reevaluate career guidance and expectations in the evolving labor market.