Computer Science Jobs in Decline

 

Eddie Hart studied computer science and cybersecurity at Newcastle University, graduating in 2024.

He says he knew getting into the tech workforce would be a challenge, but "I thought it would be a little easier".

Even when "junior" roles were advertised, they often demanded two or more years professional experience, Mr Hart says.

"It's not realistic, and it's just discouraging the good candidates from even trying."

To him it seems clear that potential employers are using AI tools to automate the simpler parts of coder's work, tasks which would traditionally allow newcomers to build up experience.

While companies undoubtedly benefit from using AI in some parts of their operations, says Mr Hart, "I don't think replacing developers entirely with AI is sustainable."

ChatGPT, and other coding tools, are being blamed for a collapse in tech job openings, particularly for younger software developers and engineers.

A report by the UK's National Foundation for Education Research showed a 50% decline in tech job adverts between 2019/20 and 2024/25, with entry level roles particularly affected.

The report cited the "anticipated impact of artificial intelligence" as one of the factors behind this.

At the same time, software developers have widely adopted AI code tools, while simultaneously expressing distrust in their output.

Research by Stack Overflow, a software knowledge platform, shows almost half use AI tools daily, despite just one third actually trusting the output of such tools.

Prashanth Chandrasekar, CEO of Stack Overflow, says it's "a tricky time to graduate".

More broadly, he says, its research shows developers are choosing to stay put, despite many expressing dissatisfaction with their work. "People are probably running for safety a little bit."

All of this means young technologists are finding it harder to get that critical first job.

Author: Joe Fay, BBC