According to a Newsweek report based on data from the New York Federal Reserve Bank, computer science ranks seventh among college degrees with the highest unemployment rates, with an unemployment rate of 6.1%. This is slightly lower than fields like physics (7.8%) and anthropology (9.4%). Related fields like computer engineering are also seeing rising unemployment, with a rate of 7.5%. This trend raises concerns about the actual demand for tech graduates in the current job market. In contrast, fields such as nutrition sciences, construction services, and civil engineering have significantly lower unemployment rates, some as low as 0.4%.
The report also highlights a broader trend: unemployment among recent graduates is increasing. As of February, the number of Generation Z households receiving unemployment benefits has risen by 32% compared to the previous year, further intensifying concerns about job security for young people. Speaking to Newsweek, HR consultant Bryan Driscoll noted that many students believe a computer science degree guarantees success. However, in reality, intense competition, limited job opportunities, and growing student debt have become significant barriers. He also pointed out that employers are increasingly focusing on candidates’ backgrounds or alma mater (the institution they graduated from) rather than their skills.
These findings underscore a growing disconnect between perceptions of certain degrees’ value and real-world job outcomes. This highlights the need for better career counseling in the evolving job market. Students must understand market demand and the importance of continuously upskilling when choosing a course of study.
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