How AI may be shutting US computer science graduates out of entry-level jobs

The once-promising path for U.S. computer science graduates is now fraught with challenges, as artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly automates tasks and reshapes the job market. Data from sources like Indeed shows a significant decline in junior-level job postings, a trend corroborated by a recent report from the Burning Glass Institute, which found that automation now threatens over half of entry-level roles across multiple sectors. This shift is leaving many recent graduates in a difficult position, struggling to find a foothold in the very industry they were trained to enter.

At the heart of the issue is the growing capability of AI tools to handle foundational tasks that were once the exclusive domain of entry-level professionals. Generative AI can write code snippets, debug routine errors, and automate basic data analysis, effectively taking on the “grunt work” that served as a crucial stepping stone for new hires. As a result, companies are now more likely to seek out experienced professionals who require less training, rather than junior talent.

Compounding the problem is the use of AI in the hiring process itself. Many companies now employ AI-powered systems to screen resumes, analyze video interviews, and even predict a candidate’s suitability for a role. While these tools can increase efficiency, they can also create a disconnect. Automated systems may favor candidates with specific keywords or traditional career paths, potentially overlooking a recent graduate who might have a different, but equally valuable, skillset. This has created an “AI loop” where graduates use AI to create applications, only to have them screened and rejected by another AI system.

However, some industry leaders believe that this shift isn’t a death knell for computer science degrees, but rather a redefinition of the profession. They argue that a degree provides a foundation in “systems thinking” and core principles that AI cannot replicate. The future, they suggest, lies not in competing with AI, but in collaborating with it. The next generation of successful computer scientists will be those who can leverage AI as a tool, using their uniquely human skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving to design and oversee complex systems.

As the landscape continues to evolve, graduates are faced with the imperative to adapt. Beyond their academic credentials, they need to demonstrate proficiency in using AI tools, a strong understanding of ethics, and the ability to think creatively about system architecture. While the path to an entry-level job may be more challenging than in years past, the demand for AI-savvy professionals is stronger than ever, suggesting that while some doors may be closing, others are being created for those who are ready to embrace the change.