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Questions
Updated
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Translated from Spanish .
What are some careers in Computer Science that are promising?
What are some careers in Computer Science that are promising?
Hello, my name is Daniel. I am a junior in running start who is interested in Software Engineering but looking for other options as I'm afraid of AI impacting my future there. I need a plan B and even C. I was drawn into Software Engineer because coding was really fun to me and I was interested in how computers work. Cybersecurity is another career that I have been thinking about especially as it's related in security and I have been very interested in it. Though for right now I don't know what to pursue, if anyone has any suggestions about what careers in Computer Science would be worth pursuing and have promising future for me to check out that would be very helpful.
Thank you!
46 answers
Updated
Amit’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
It’s great to hear that you’re passionate about coding and how computers work—that curiosity is the foundation of a strong career in tech. Your concern about AI is valid, but the good news is that **software engineering isn’t going away**—it’s evolving. Instead of replacing software engineers, AI is becoming a powerful tool that developers use to be more efficient and solve bigger problems.
Since you're thinking about Plan B and C, here are a few **computer science-related career paths** worth exploring—each with strong growth potential and resilience to automation:
1. Cybersecurity
You already mentioned an interest in this—and you’re on to something big. Cybersecurity is **booming** and will be for the foreseeable future. With increasing digital threats, the demand for professionals in areas like ethical hacking, penetration testing, and incident response is growing rapidly. It’s hands-on, impactful, and aligned with your interest in security.
2. Cloud Computing / DevOps
With companies moving to the cloud, roles in cloud architecture, site reliability engineering (SRE), and DevOps are expanding fast. These positions require coding knowledge but also give you a broader systems perspective—plus they work hand-in-hand with security.
3. Data Engineering & MLOps
If you're interested in how data and AI work behind the scenes, data engineering might be a fit. It’s about building systems that prepare data for analysis or machine learning—crucial in AI, but more about infrastructure than modeling.
4. Embedded Systems / IoT Development
If you're fascinated by how computers and devices interact (like smart home gadgets, medical devices, etc.), embedded systems is a fantastic niche that merges software with hardware.
5. Tech + Something Else
You can also mix tech with another passion—like **healthcare technology**, **legal tech**, **game development**, or **environmental tech**. Hybrid careers are often more resistant to automation and let you stand out in the market.
**Advice**: Don’t worry about picking the “perfect” path right now. Try different projects, take intro courses, attend meetups or hackathons, and talk to professionals in those areas. The more you explore, the more confident you’ll become in your direction.
You're asking the right questions—just keep learning, stay curious, and be open to where your skills can take you. The tech world needs thinkers like you.
It’s great to hear that you’re passionate about coding and how computers work—that curiosity is the foundation of a strong career in tech. Your concern about AI is valid, but the good news is that **software engineering isn’t going away**—it’s evolving. Instead of replacing software engineers, AI is becoming a powerful tool that developers use to be more efficient and solve bigger problems.
Since you're thinking about Plan B and C, here are a few **computer science-related career paths** worth exploring—each with strong growth potential and resilience to automation:
1. Cybersecurity
You already mentioned an interest in this—and you’re on to something big. Cybersecurity is **booming** and will be for the foreseeable future. With increasing digital threats, the demand for professionals in areas like ethical hacking, penetration testing, and incident response is growing rapidly. It’s hands-on, impactful, and aligned with your interest in security.
2. Cloud Computing / DevOps
With companies moving to the cloud, roles in cloud architecture, site reliability engineering (SRE), and DevOps are expanding fast. These positions require coding knowledge but also give you a broader systems perspective—plus they work hand-in-hand with security.
3. Data Engineering & MLOps
If you're interested in how data and AI work behind the scenes, data engineering might be a fit. It’s about building systems that prepare data for analysis or machine learning—crucial in AI, but more about infrastructure than modeling.
4. Embedded Systems / IoT Development
If you're fascinated by how computers and devices interact (like smart home gadgets, medical devices, etc.), embedded systems is a fantastic niche that merges software with hardware.
5. Tech + Something Else
You can also mix tech with another passion—like **healthcare technology**, **legal tech**, **game development**, or **environmental tech**. Hybrid careers are often more resistant to automation and let you stand out in the market.
**Advice**: Don’t worry about picking the “perfect” path right now. Try different projects, take intro courses, attend meetups or hackathons, and talk to professionals in those areas. The more you explore, the more confident you’ll become in your direction.
You're asking the right questions—just keep learning, stay curious, and be open to where your skills can take you. The tech world needs thinkers like you.
Hello Amit, thank you a lot for your comment and advice!
Dani
Updated
Prasad’s Answer
I'll be brief.
Not all jobs will be replaced by AI, but most of the jobs will be powered by AI. Professionals without AI skills will have hard time finding the jobs. Hence, which ever specialization / category of job you chose, make sure to learn and master prevailing AI tools in that domain.
Some of the hottest skills in job market in near future: Cyber Security, Data Science + AI / ML, Gen AI with deep understanding of LLMs, Agentic AI based automation
Not all jobs will be replaced by AI, but most of the jobs will be powered by AI. Professionals without AI skills will have hard time finding the jobs. Hence, which ever specialization / category of job you chose, make sure to learn and master prevailing AI tools in that domain.
Some of the hottest skills in job market in near future: Cyber Security, Data Science + AI / ML, Gen AI with deep understanding of LLMs, Agentic AI based automation
Hello Prasad, thank you for your comment!
Dani
Updated
Frank’s Answer
Hi Daniel, why not start with some small projects or online courses? It's a great way to discover what excites you. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy offer fantastic content and training. This will help you explore different interests to see what you enjoy. Coding and AI are in high demand, though they can be challenging. Cybersecurity is also a great field, and you might find network and web security particularly interesting. Give it a try and see what sparks your passion!
Hello Frank, thank you for your comment and advice!
Dani
Updated
William’s Answer
Cyber security, web development & databases are good options b/c every manager is worried about security & (almost) every company needs a website & a database. AI is a tool that will be used by software developers & (probably) will not replace them (for the most part).
Getting an internship while still in college may help you get your foot in the door for a good job too.
William recommends the following next steps:
Hello William, I appreciate the comment!
Dani
Updated
Durganand’s Answer
1. Discover What Interests You
Computer science is a broad field. Some popular and growing career paths include:
Software Developer/Engineer: Creating apps and programs.
Data Scientist/Analyst: Making sense of data to help businesses make decisions.
Cybersecurity Specialist: Protecting systems from hackers.
AI/Machine Learning Engineer: Teaching computers to learn and solve problems.
Cloud Computing Specialist: Working with online storage and services.
Web or Mobile Developer: Building websites and apps.
Database Administrator: Organizing and managing data.
IT Project Manager: Leading tech projects and teams.
Network Engineer: Keeping computer networks running smoothly.
2. Take Small Steps to Build Your Skills
Start with the basics: Learn a programming language like Python or JavaScript.
Try out different areas: Take beginner courses or tutorials to see what you enjoy.
Work on small projects: Even simple projects can teach you a lot and boost your confidence.
3. Keep Learning and Growing
Stay curious: Technology changes quickly, so keep exploring new topics.
Connect with others: Join online communities or talk to people in the field for advice and support.
Don’t stress about speed: It’s perfectly fine to move slowly and take breaks. Every bit of progress counts!
4. Build Experience Over Time
Look for internships or volunteer opportunities when you feel ready.
Add certifications or online courses to your resume as you go.
Remember: Everyone’s path is different—focus on what works for you.
Helpful Resources for Learning and Exploring
Online Learning Platforms:
Coursera
edX
Udemy
Codecademy
Khan Academy
Computer science is a broad field. Some popular and growing career paths include:
Software Developer/Engineer: Creating apps and programs.
Data Scientist/Analyst: Making sense of data to help businesses make decisions.
Cybersecurity Specialist: Protecting systems from hackers.
AI/Machine Learning Engineer: Teaching computers to learn and solve problems.
Cloud Computing Specialist: Working with online storage and services.
Web or Mobile Developer: Building websites and apps.
Database Administrator: Organizing and managing data.
IT Project Manager: Leading tech projects and teams.
Network Engineer: Keeping computer networks running smoothly.
2. Take Small Steps to Build Your Skills
Start with the basics: Learn a programming language like Python or JavaScript.
Try out different areas: Take beginner courses or tutorials to see what you enjoy.
Work on small projects: Even simple projects can teach you a lot and boost your confidence.
3. Keep Learning and Growing
Stay curious: Technology changes quickly, so keep exploring new topics.
Connect with others: Join online communities or talk to people in the field for advice and support.
Don’t stress about speed: It’s perfectly fine to move slowly and take breaks. Every bit of progress counts!
4. Build Experience Over Time
Look for internships or volunteer opportunities when you feel ready.
Add certifications or online courses to your resume as you go.
Remember: Everyone’s path is different—focus on what works for you.
Helpful Resources for Learning and Exploring
Online Learning Platforms:
Coursera
edX
Udemy
Codecademy
Khan Academy
Hello Durganand, thank you for taking the time to write your comment, I really appreciate it!
Dani
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
It's perfectly normal to feel unsure about your future, especially in a fast-changing area like computer science. The great news is that a CS degree offers many exciting opportunities, such as software engineering, cybersecurity, AI, machine learning, and blockchain. You're already doing well by following your passion. Now, focus on strengthening your skills by learning the basics like data structures, algorithms, and key programming languages. Work on personal projects, join open-source efforts on GitHub, and improve your problem-solving skills with platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank. Don't worry about AI—it's a helpful tool, not a threat. Learning to use AI can greatly boost your career as these skills are in high demand.
To boost your future, think about specializing in the areas that excite you most and keep learning through resources like MIT OpenCourseWare, Coursera, and Udemy. Get real-world experience through internships, freelance work, or volunteering, and connect with the tech community on LinkedIn, Stack Overflow, Discord, Reddit, or local meetups. Combining strong technical skills, practical experience, and a supportive network will pave the way for long-term success. Keep learning, stay curious, and believe in yourself—your future in computer science is full of exciting possibilities.
To boost your future, think about specializing in the areas that excite you most and keep learning through resources like MIT OpenCourseWare, Coursera, and Udemy. Get real-world experience through internships, freelance work, or volunteering, and connect with the tech community on LinkedIn, Stack Overflow, Discord, Reddit, or local meetups. Combining strong technical skills, practical experience, and a supportive network will pave the way for long-term success. Keep learning, stay curious, and believe in yourself—your future in computer science is full of exciting possibilities.
Hello Teklemuz, thank you for your advice a lot, I appreciate it.
Dani
Updated
Balaji’s Answer
Hello Daniel,
It's great to see you think proactively about your career and planning ahead.
Discover what is really interests you in and build skills and keep learning. Cyber security is good career option and you can also consider AI and ML, data engineering, DevOps, and cloud technologies & architectures (such as Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud).
Helpful Resources for Learning and Exploring -
Online Learning Platforms: Coursera, edX, Udem, Codecademy & Khan Academy
It's great to see you think proactively about your career and planning ahead.
Discover what is really interests you in and build skills and keep learning. Cyber security is good career option and you can also consider AI and ML, data engineering, DevOps, and cloud technologies & architectures (such as Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud).
Helpful Resources for Learning and Exploring -
Online Learning Platforms: Coursera, edX, Udem, Codecademy & Khan Academy
Hello Balaji, thank you a lot for your comment and information, I will check the resources out!
Dani
Updated
Sharadha’s Answer
Hi Daniel! It’s great that you’re thinking ahead and exploring different career paths in computer science. Software engineering is still a strong and in-demand field, but your concern about AI’s impact is valid—technology is changing fast, and being flexible is smart. Since you enjoy coding and are curious about how computers work, you’re already on a solid foundation to succeed in several CS-related careers.
One promising alternative is cybersecurity, which you’re already interested in. It’s a fast-growing field where companies constantly need skilled professionals to protect their systems from hackers and cyber threats. Cybersecurity careers like security analyst, penetration tester, or ethical hacker are not only stable but also challenging and exciting. It’s a great choice if you enjoy problem-solving and defending systems rather than just building them. Other strong career paths include AI/machine learning engineering, data science, and cloud computing (DevOps). These fields are expanding rapidly and offer great pay and opportunities. If you enjoy working with data or building smart systems, AI and data science are excellent choices.
On the other hand, if you like how systems run and scale on the internet, cloud engineering and DevOps might be a great fit. If you’re drawn to gaming or how computers interact with the real world, careers like game development, graphics programming, or embedded systems (like robotics or smart devices) could also be rewarding. These areas require strong coding skills and are less likely to be automated by AI anytime soon. Starting with a general computer science degree is a good move—it gives you flexibility to try out different specialties. Take classes in software development, cybersecurity, and maybe even AI early on to see what fits best. You’ll figure out what excites you most along the way. Let me know if you want help matching these paths to your specific strengths!
One promising alternative is cybersecurity, which you’re already interested in. It’s a fast-growing field where companies constantly need skilled professionals to protect their systems from hackers and cyber threats. Cybersecurity careers like security analyst, penetration tester, or ethical hacker are not only stable but also challenging and exciting. It’s a great choice if you enjoy problem-solving and defending systems rather than just building them. Other strong career paths include AI/machine learning engineering, data science, and cloud computing (DevOps). These fields are expanding rapidly and offer great pay and opportunities. If you enjoy working with data or building smart systems, AI and data science are excellent choices.
On the other hand, if you like how systems run and scale on the internet, cloud engineering and DevOps might be a great fit. If you’re drawn to gaming or how computers interact with the real world, careers like game development, graphics programming, or embedded systems (like robotics or smart devices) could also be rewarding. These areas require strong coding skills and are less likely to be automated by AI anytime soon. Starting with a general computer science degree is a good move—it gives you flexibility to try out different specialties. Take classes in software development, cybersecurity, and maybe even AI early on to see what fits best. You’ll figure out what excites you most along the way. Let me know if you want help matching these paths to your specific strengths!
Hello Sharadha, I really appreciate your comment and support. I will definitely be looking more into the careers that you mentioned. Thank you for taking the time to write your comment :)
Dani
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know you have interest in Computer Science.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many Computer Science related careers, e.g. Web Designer, Apps Developer, ERP developer, System Architect, Network Administrator, Database Administrator, Cybersecurity Professional, Information System Auditor, Data Scientist, Application Support, etc. You can find out more online. Each of these careers have specific knowledge domain
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to some alumni or someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Choose relevant courses in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many Computer Science related careers, e.g. Web Designer, Apps Developer, ERP developer, System Architect, Network Administrator, Database Administrator, Cybersecurity Professional, Information System Auditor, Data Scientist, Application Support, etc. You can find out more online. Each of these careers have specific knowledge domain
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to some alumni or someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Choose relevant courses in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Hello Rebecca, thank you a lot for your suggestions!
Dani
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Great question and it’s smart to think ahead! Besides Software Engineering, there are several promising careers in Computer Science you can explore. Cybersecurity is a fantastic option with strong demand and job security, especially since you’re already interested in it. Cloud computing is another fast-growing field where companies need engineers to build and maintain cloud systems. Data science and data engineering are also exciting areas where you work with large datasets to uncover insights. Another great path is DevOps or site reliability engineering, which focuses on automating infrastructure and keeping systems running smoothly. AI is definitely changing Software Engineering, but it will also create new opportunities, so don’t feel like you have to give it up entirely. I’d recommend trying out small projects or online courses in these areas to see what excites you.
Hello Ryan, thank you a lot for the supporting and helpful comment :)
Dani
Updated
Savyata’s Answer
Hi Daniel, it's great to hear about your passion for coding and curiosity about how computers work! Besides Software Engineering and Cybersecurity, you might consider careers like Data Science, which focuses on analyzing data to help make decisions; Cloud Computing, which involves managing and developing services on the internet; and AI/Machine Learning, where you can work on creating smart systems (which can be a complement rather than a threat to software skills). Another promising area is DevOps, combining development and operations to improve software delivery. These fields are growing and offer diverse opportunities. Keep exploring what excites you most, and remember, your coding skills will be valuable in many paths.
Hello Savyata, thank you for your comment, I really appreciate it!
Dani
Updated
Sidharth’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
I totally get where you’re coming from. The rise of AI is definitely changing the tech landscape, but honestly, I wouldn’t let it scare you away from Software Engineering. In fact, knowing how to use AI as a software engineer can actually make your work more interesting and valuable. For example, you can use AI to automate repetitive coding tasks, help with debugging, or even build smarter apps. If you start experimenting with AI now, it’ll actually boost your portfolio and make you stand out when you apply for jobs.
As for other promising careers in Computer Science, cybersecurity is a fantastic option—there’s a huge demand for people who can keep systems safe, and that’s not going away anytime soon. You might also look into fields like data science, cloud computing, or even user experience (UX) design, all of which are growing and offer lots of opportunities since there is a human element that AI can not mimic. My advice is to keep exploring what excites you, try out some projects in different areas, and don’t be afraid to combine your interests—like building secure AI-powered apps or tools. The tech world is big, and your curiosity and willingness to learn will serve you well no matter which path you choose!
I totally get where you’re coming from. The rise of AI is definitely changing the tech landscape, but honestly, I wouldn’t let it scare you away from Software Engineering. In fact, knowing how to use AI as a software engineer can actually make your work more interesting and valuable. For example, you can use AI to automate repetitive coding tasks, help with debugging, or even build smarter apps. If you start experimenting with AI now, it’ll actually boost your portfolio and make you stand out when you apply for jobs.
As for other promising careers in Computer Science, cybersecurity is a fantastic option—there’s a huge demand for people who can keep systems safe, and that’s not going away anytime soon. You might also look into fields like data science, cloud computing, or even user experience (UX) design, all of which are growing and offer lots of opportunities since there is a human element that AI can not mimic. My advice is to keep exploring what excites you, try out some projects in different areas, and don’t be afraid to combine your interests—like building secure AI-powered apps or tools. The tech world is big, and your curiosity and willingness to learn will serve you well no matter which path you choose!
Hello Sidharth, thank you a lot for your comment. It was really great advice and encouragement :)
Dani
Updated
Jarod’s Answer
Cybersecurity is a fantastic career choice with a bright future. There are many exciting areas to explore, like Data Engineering, Cloud Security, DevOps, and more. Try working on some projects to discover what you love most. Enjoying your work is important, and hands-on experience can help you find your passion. If you like seeing the big picture and connecting the dots, consider roles like Security Architect or Cloud Architect. These positions might be a great fit for you as you grow in your career.
Hello Jarod, thank you for the comment and advice!
Dani
Updated
Amber Elaine’s Answer
I chose Software Engineering because it offers a lot of career flexibility. My school combined System Engineering (like management and documentation), Electrical Engineering (hardware work), and Computer Science (software building). You could also take extra classes in areas like Cloud Computing or Cybersecurity. I aimed for a mix of everything. In careers like Software Engineering and Computer Science, AI is just a tool, not a replacement. I've had three internships where we couldn't use AI. It will change things, but only as a tool. What helped me choose this path was reaching out to people on LinkedIn who had jobs I was interested in. They were really friendly and answered my questions. As a first-generation student, I know it can be overwhelming. Watching "day in the life" videos of different degrees can also help. Career fairs are great for talking to companies and learning about roles in your field of interest. Colleges usually have several. Many people from other engineering fields move into Software Engineering, so don't let AI scare you, especially if you're interested in it.
Hello Amber, thank you so much for writing this comment. It does tend to get overwhelming for me but thank you for your advice!
Dani
Updated
Revanth’s Answer
There are many exciting career paths to explore, especially with the fast growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Careers in AI and Machine Learning are leading the way, offering chances to work with new technologies like natural language processing and intelligent automation. These jobs are perfect for those who love data, algorithms, and solving problems. If you enjoy working behind the scenes to create and maintain systems, consider a career in DevOps or Cloud Engineering. These roles are great for those interested in automation and cloud platforms.
Data Science and Analytics are also in high demand, as companies use data to make important decisions. If you love building software and applications, Software Engineering or Full Stack Development can offer you variety and job security. For those interested in protecting digital systems, Cybersecurity Engineering is a great choice. If you want to combine AI with operations, MLOps or Data Engineering is an exciting field focused on expanding machine learning systems.
Lastly, if you have a technical background and good communication skills, Product Management might be a good fit, allowing you to help shape AI-powered products. Choose a path that matches your interests, whether it’s coding, data, infrastructure, or product strategy. The future of computer science is closely linked with AI in every area.
Data Science and Analytics are also in high demand, as companies use data to make important decisions. If you love building software and applications, Software Engineering or Full Stack Development can offer you variety and job security. For those interested in protecting digital systems, Cybersecurity Engineering is a great choice. If you want to combine AI with operations, MLOps or Data Engineering is an exciting field focused on expanding machine learning systems.
Lastly, if you have a technical background and good communication skills, Product Management might be a good fit, allowing you to help shape AI-powered products. Choose a path that matches your interests, whether it’s coding, data, infrastructure, or product strategy. The future of computer science is closely linked with AI in every area.
Hello Revanth, thank you for taking the time in writing your comment. You gave me a lot and great information, I really appreciate it!
Dani
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
I understand the concerns regarding AI, but I believe it will end up being another tool to help us do our jobs more efficiently. I would say it is still worth pursing computer science as a degree as you are not just limited to only one certain field. Computer science is a pretty broad field and you could be doing many different things related to it, it can range from Web development work, security, data analysis, networking, cloud, etc. You might have to broaden your scope on what you might want to do, but with a computer science degree you should be able to handle most of those fields. In college you also may be able to take classes that specialize more in certain fields like Security or AI, it also does not have to be just through school on learning these things. You can explore different things and learn on your own as well regarding the different fields of computer science.
I understand the concerns regarding AI, but I believe it will end up being another tool to help us do our jobs more efficiently. I would say it is still worth pursing computer science as a degree as you are not just limited to only one certain field. Computer science is a pretty broad field and you could be doing many different things related to it, it can range from Web development work, security, data analysis, networking, cloud, etc. You might have to broaden your scope on what you might want to do, but with a computer science degree you should be able to handle most of those fields. In college you also may be able to take classes that specialize more in certain fields like Security or AI, it also does not have to be just through school on learning these things. You can explore different things and learn on your own as well regarding the different fields of computer science.
Hello Chris, thank for taking the time to write your comment, I really appreciate it :)
Dani
Updated
TJ’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
My advice is to look into a career in consulting as there are many options for you. In the same consulting company, you can be a programmer, work in data analytics, cyber security, project management, and a whole slew of other opportunities. With your Computer Program background, you could fit into any of the fields that I listed.
TJ
My advice is to look into a career in consulting as there are many options for you. In the same consulting company, you can be a programmer, work in data analytics, cyber security, project management, and a whole slew of other opportunities. With your Computer Program background, you could fit into any of the fields that I listed.
TJ
Hello TJ, thank you for your comment!
Dani
Updated
Ash’s Answer
There are many different career paths to pursue in Computer Science. Cybersecurity is especially popular right now, and demand for it will continue to grow as computer systems become more integrated into every aspect of our lives. Other interesting options include software architect or enterprise architect—roles that focus on building and integrating applications at the enterprise level.
If you’re interested in data, I recommend considering data science (which is more focused on theory, math, and research) or data engineering (which is more practical and hands-on). Data engineers build data pipelines between and within applications. Cloud engineering is another exciting field, involving work with solutions from cloud providers like Microsoft Azure and Amazon AWS.
You really can’t go wrong with any field within computer science. My advice is to start with one that interests you and adjust your path as you gain more experience and discover what you enjoy most.
If you’re interested in data, I recommend considering data science (which is more focused on theory, math, and research) or data engineering (which is more practical and hands-on). Data engineers build data pipelines between and within applications. Cloud engineering is another exciting field, involving work with solutions from cloud providers like Microsoft Azure and Amazon AWS.
You really can’t go wrong with any field within computer science. My advice is to start with one that interests you and adjust your path as you gain more experience and discover what you enjoy most.
Hello Ash, thank you a lot for your advice, I really appreciate it!
Dani
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Dani,
It’s great that you’re studying computer science—that foundation will open up many doors for you. Rather than worrying too much about where AI is heading, I recommend focusing on identifying real-world problems, whether in your daily life or in industries that interest you. Use your skills to develop solutions, especially by leveraging large language models (LLMs), and start building software to address those needs. As you work on more projects, you’ll naturally discover new areas and career paths in computer science that you might not have considered before. This hands-on experience will not only strengthen your resume but also help you stay competitive in the job market, especially during interviews. In short, by actively building and exploring, you’ll uncover promising career opportunities that align with your interests and skills.
It’s great that you’re studying computer science—that foundation will open up many doors for you. Rather than worrying too much about where AI is heading, I recommend focusing on identifying real-world problems, whether in your daily life or in industries that interest you. Use your skills to develop solutions, especially by leveraging large language models (LLMs), and start building software to address those needs. As you work on more projects, you’ll naturally discover new areas and career paths in computer science that you might not have considered before. This hands-on experience will not only strengthen your resume but also help you stay competitive in the job market, especially during interviews. In short, by actively building and exploring, you’ll uncover promising career opportunities that align with your interests and skills.
Hello William, thank you for writing your comment. You gave me great advice that I will put into use :)
Dani
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Hey Daniel,
Choosing to study computer science is a smart move, and here's why. You'll find that many jobs in this field pay well, and engineers are often treated very well, especially AI engineers right now. I've worked at several companies where they offer amazing perks like arcade rooms, gyms, and meals from top chefs just for engineers.
If you're thinking about becoming an engineer, it's good to know which roles are in demand and pay the best. AI engineering is quite complex, which is why it's one of the highest-paying roles. I'm talking about full-scale machine learning engineers, not just those working with generative AI. They are in high demand.
Then there's DevOps, which involves deploying services and managing cloud infrastructure like AWS or Azure. My current role is in ML Ops, which combines AI models with infrastructure knowledge. It took a lot of learning to get here, and my background is in game software. I've transitioned through various roles like game software, DevOps, backend development, QA, blockchain, and now AI ML Ops.
I suggest you stay flexible and keep learning new skills. Just because you start in one role doesn't mean you'll stay there forever. Adapting makes you valuable to your company and marketable if you want to switch jobs.
Good luck, and I hope this helps!
Choosing to study computer science is a smart move, and here's why. You'll find that many jobs in this field pay well, and engineers are often treated very well, especially AI engineers right now. I've worked at several companies where they offer amazing perks like arcade rooms, gyms, and meals from top chefs just for engineers.
If you're thinking about becoming an engineer, it's good to know which roles are in demand and pay the best. AI engineering is quite complex, which is why it's one of the highest-paying roles. I'm talking about full-scale machine learning engineers, not just those working with generative AI. They are in high demand.
Then there's DevOps, which involves deploying services and managing cloud infrastructure like AWS or Azure. My current role is in ML Ops, which combines AI models with infrastructure knowledge. It took a lot of learning to get here, and my background is in game software. I've transitioned through various roles like game software, DevOps, backend development, QA, blockchain, and now AI ML Ops.
I suggest you stay flexible and keep learning new skills. Just because you start in one role doesn't mean you'll stay there forever. Adapting makes you valuable to your company and marketable if you want to switch jobs.
Good luck, and I hope this helps!
Hello Mark, thank you a lot for writing your comment, it was really helpful, thank you!
Dani
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Dani! Do not hesitate to activate several plans at once. Both of a centripetal [center-seeking] and a centrifugal [center-leaving] genre. So, you specialize in a computer programming language such as Python which deals adequately with 'big data'. For your generalist consulting which does not focus on one center, do several pursuits in supplying clients with remote internship research work. An example would be treating the Internet like a huge library and doing searches for clients which may be academic, for instance with PubMed or Research Gate SEE https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ ALSO https://www.researchgate.net/
This way you are not confining yourself because you have other supporting activities. You could utilize Cornell University's LII [Legal Information Institute]
for law firm searches.
Business Consulting is a fruitful endeavor too. I do a consult of a different sort for medical patients. Doctors diagnose and I modify their nutritional intakes. You can generalize with tutoring students and helping them with assignments.
This way you are not confining yourself because you have other supporting activities. You could utilize Cornell University's LII [Legal Information Institute]
for law firm searches.
Business Consulting is a fruitful endeavor too. I do a consult of a different sort for medical patients. Doctors diagnose and I modify their nutritional intakes. You can generalize with tutoring students and helping them with assignments.
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Yashasvi’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
It's great to see you thinking proactively about your future and considering multiple career paths! Your interest in software engineering, cybersecurity, and how computers work gives you a strong foundation for many exciting opportunities in the tech field. Here are some thoughts and suggestions to help you explore your options:
1. Software Engineering
Why it's still promising: While AI is changing the landscape, software engineers are needed to build, maintain, and improve the systems that power AI and other technologies. AI tools can actually make software engineers more productive, not replace them entirely.
Plan B: Consider specializing in areas where human creativity and problem-solving are crucial, such as user experience (UX), product management, or systems architecture.
2. Cybersecurity
Why it's a great option: As technology advances, so do security threats. Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand to protect data, networks, and systems from attacks. This field is expected to keep growing as digital threats evolve.
Roles to explore: Security analyst, penetration tester, incident responder, or security software developer.
3. Other Promising Computer Science Careers
Data Science & Analytics: Use data to solve real-world problems in business, healthcare, sports, and more.
Cloud Computing: Help organizations move to and manage their operations in the cloud (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
DevOps & Site Reliability Engineering: Focus on automating and improving the software development process and system reliability.
Embedded Systems/IoT: Work on smart devices, robotics, and hardware-software integration.
AI Ethics & Policy: As AI becomes more prevalent, experts are needed to address ethical, legal, and societal impacts.
4. How to Explore Further
Take introductory courses: Try out classes or online tutorials in different areas (e.g., cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing).
Join clubs or competitions: Participate in coding clubs, cybersecurity competitions (like Capture the Flag), or hackathons.
Talk to professionals: Reach out to people working in different tech roles to learn about their day-to-day work.
Internships or volunteering: Gain hands-on experience in various fields to see what you enjoy most.
5. Final Thoughts
It's normal not to have everything figured out right now. The tech field is broad and constantly evolving, so skills you learn in one area often transfer to others. Stay curious, keep learning, and you'll find a path that excites you and offers stability.
It's great to see you thinking proactively about your future and considering multiple career paths! Your interest in software engineering, cybersecurity, and how computers work gives you a strong foundation for many exciting opportunities in the tech field. Here are some thoughts and suggestions to help you explore your options:
1. Software Engineering
Why it's still promising: While AI is changing the landscape, software engineers are needed to build, maintain, and improve the systems that power AI and other technologies. AI tools can actually make software engineers more productive, not replace them entirely.
Plan B: Consider specializing in areas where human creativity and problem-solving are crucial, such as user experience (UX), product management, or systems architecture.
2. Cybersecurity
Why it's a great option: As technology advances, so do security threats. Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand to protect data, networks, and systems from attacks. This field is expected to keep growing as digital threats evolve.
Roles to explore: Security analyst, penetration tester, incident responder, or security software developer.
3. Other Promising Computer Science Careers
Data Science & Analytics: Use data to solve real-world problems in business, healthcare, sports, and more.
Cloud Computing: Help organizations move to and manage their operations in the cloud (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
DevOps & Site Reliability Engineering: Focus on automating and improving the software development process and system reliability.
Embedded Systems/IoT: Work on smart devices, robotics, and hardware-software integration.
AI Ethics & Policy: As AI becomes more prevalent, experts are needed to address ethical, legal, and societal impacts.
4. How to Explore Further
Take introductory courses: Try out classes or online tutorials in different areas (e.g., cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing).
Join clubs or competitions: Participate in coding clubs, cybersecurity competitions (like Capture the Flag), or hackathons.
Talk to professionals: Reach out to people working in different tech roles to learn about their day-to-day work.
Internships or volunteering: Gain hands-on experience in various fields to see what you enjoy most.
5. Final Thoughts
It's normal not to have everything figured out right now. The tech field is broad and constantly evolving, so skills you learn in one area often transfer to others. Stay curious, keep learning, and you'll find a path that excites you and offers stability.
Hello Yashasvi, thank you a lot for taking the time in writing your comment. Your guide is really helpful and I really appreciate your support, thank you :)
Dani
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Alex’s Answer
The other answers offer excellent suggestions, especially around Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Data Engineering! To add a few less-common paths:
Tech Sales is looking for people who know CS and can really understand the products they are selling. Also, consider Politics/Public Policy; we desperately need younger individuals in policy who deeply understand technology. While it may not always be the highest-paying role, its societal impact can be huge. Best of luck, and don't be afraid to apply for roles that are not the common starting traditional job for someone who has a CS degree.
Tech Sales is looking for people who know CS and can really understand the products they are selling. Also, consider Politics/Public Policy; we desperately need younger individuals in policy who deeply understand technology. While it may not always be the highest-paying role, its societal impact can be huge. Best of luck, and don't be afraid to apply for roles that are not the common starting traditional job for someone who has a CS degree.
Hello Alex, thank you for your comment, you provided some different angles for my future career that I haven't seen or thought about, I appreciate it!
Dani
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Mike’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
Thank you for this question. It is very relevant. There have been reports of a reduction in hiring for certain technology roles. However, I am convinced that there will be a good amount of wonderful employment opportunities for software and hardware engineers well into the future. So follow your dream. AI can do a lot, but the AI needs a manager.
Cybersecurity is especially promising.
Plan B and Plan C can be various areas of Computer Science. The areas that you are most interested in will be the ones that will give you the most success.
In terms of which Universities to apply to, choose schools and departments that best align with your interests. The University of Washington is a wonderful school. I recommend that you apply to at least five colleges.
A University with a good name is wonderful, but not all important. Success will be found by people who attend good state colleges. I recommend colleges with established (not new) computer science departments.
Also, you can investigate how many students succeed in finding work by looking for the college career research pages. Most colleges have these. The career research page for UW is here: https://careers.uw.edu/outcomes These pages can tell you how many students succeeded in finding work or internships for a given year.
Thank you for this question. It is very relevant. There have been reports of a reduction in hiring for certain technology roles. However, I am convinced that there will be a good amount of wonderful employment opportunities for software and hardware engineers well into the future. So follow your dream. AI can do a lot, but the AI needs a manager.
Cybersecurity is especially promising.
Plan B and Plan C can be various areas of Computer Science. The areas that you are most interested in will be the ones that will give you the most success.
In terms of which Universities to apply to, choose schools and departments that best align with your interests. The University of Washington is a wonderful school. I recommend that you apply to at least five colleges.
A University with a good name is wonderful, but not all important. Success will be found by people who attend good state colleges. I recommend colleges with established (not new) computer science departments.
Mike recommends the following next steps:
Hello Mike, thank you for your information, very helpful.
Dani
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Calvin’s Answer
Hi Dani, the field of cybersecurity is full of exciting opportunities. You can explore many different roles and find one that matches your interests. With technology moving to the cloud, there are even more options, whether you want to work on cloud security or focus on traditional setups. You can choose a technical path, like solving security issues, or a non-technical one, like developing security policies. As the importance of security grows, so will the demand for skilled professionals. To kick off your journey, think about getting certifications like CompTIA Security+.
Hello Calvin, thank you a lot for your comment on this question and my last one:)
Dani
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Soumik’s Answer
Cybersecurity is a good career option; however, you can also consider AI and ML, data engineering, DevOps, and cloud technologies & architectures (such as Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud).
Hello Soumik, thank you for your comment!
Dani
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Paulomee’s Answer
Hey Daniel !
What you are feeling right now, I’m sure thousands of other tech people mirror. It’s alright to feel this. One thing important to learn and accept about the field of technology and computer is that it’s always growing and changing and us being someone who love this field have to continue growing and learning as well. Understand this, AI is not going to replace everything , at least not anytime soon, but AI will definitely power a lot of these fields. It might be worth while to take up AI related courses online, learn python, LLMs , learn more about cloud based systems , machine learning and also ofcourse being up to date with cyber security technologies. As long as you have the will and interest to learn, you can do wonders in the field of technology.
Wishing you the very best.
What you are feeling right now, I’m sure thousands of other tech people mirror. It’s alright to feel this. One thing important to learn and accept about the field of technology and computer is that it’s always growing and changing and us being someone who love this field have to continue growing and learning as well. Understand this, AI is not going to replace everything , at least not anytime soon, but AI will definitely power a lot of these fields. It might be worth while to take up AI related courses online, learn python, LLMs , learn more about cloud based systems , machine learning and also ofcourse being up to date with cyber security technologies. As long as you have the will and interest to learn, you can do wonders in the field of technology.
Wishing you the very best.
Hello Paulomee, thank you a lot for your comment and information!
Dani
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DEVANG’s Answer
Computer science offers many job options. You can work in IT security, data analysis, AI, software development, and more. These roles are available in various industries like finance, healthcare, education, and government. Hope this helps.
Hello Devang, I appreciate the comment!
Dani
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Sainudheen’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
It is great to see you are passionate about Software Engineering and additionally thinking of Cybersecurity. Both skills are at still on high demand now. Even though there are many AI Models exist currently, building AI/ML applications using those AI models to meet custom business need is still a requirement. To meet that objective, many companies are starting to build teams with people who has skills in Software Engineering including application architecture/coding, Data Science expertise, Cloud Engineering with platform architecture/DevOps. Also, all such custom applications need to meet company's/ industry security requirements. So, the AI/ML teams are adding people with Cyber Security skills as well.
To me, your plan A with Software Engineering is still a positive and successful path. Adding additional skills/understanding of Cybersecurity and cloud hosting will be an added advantage to grow in your career.
It is great to see you are passionate about Software Engineering and additionally thinking of Cybersecurity. Both skills are at still on high demand now. Even though there are many AI Models exist currently, building AI/ML applications using those AI models to meet custom business need is still a requirement. To meet that objective, many companies are starting to build teams with people who has skills in Software Engineering including application architecture/coding, Data Science expertise, Cloud Engineering with platform architecture/DevOps. Also, all such custom applications need to meet company's/ industry security requirements. So, the AI/ML teams are adding people with Cyber Security skills as well.
To me, your plan A with Software Engineering is still a positive and successful path. Adding additional skills/understanding of Cybersecurity and cloud hosting will be an added advantage to grow in your career.
Hello Sainudheen, I really appreciate your comment and answering my worries, I appreciate it!
Dani
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Don’s Answer
Hello Dani,
It is unfortunate that you are feeling less assured about doing software engineering and it is good that you are thinking about a Plan B and C if you want to do something different. If you are interested in Cybersecurity there are jobs like Cybersecurity Analyst, Cloud Security Engineer, Ethical Hackers and Malware Analysts for example. If you are thinking about doing computer science there are jobs like software developer/engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst/Engineer, Data Scientist/Analyst, Web Developer and Machine Developer for example. I would definitely explore Cybersecurity and Computer science because there are good possibilities for both. Hope this was helpful and best of luck to you in your career!
It is unfortunate that you are feeling less assured about doing software engineering and it is good that you are thinking about a Plan B and C if you want to do something different. If you are interested in Cybersecurity there are jobs like Cybersecurity Analyst, Cloud Security Engineer, Ethical Hackers and Malware Analysts for example. If you are thinking about doing computer science there are jobs like software developer/engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst/Engineer, Data Scientist/Analyst, Web Developer and Machine Developer for example. I would definitely explore Cybersecurity and Computer science because there are good possibilities for both. Hope this was helpful and best of luck to you in your career!
Thank you Don for your comment :)
Dani
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Billy’s Answer
Hi Dani,
Great question—I'm really glad you're already thinking about your future!
Let me start with a quote from the world of hockey:
“Skate to where the puck is going, not where it is now.”
In other words, try to look ahead and think about where the world is going, not just what’s popular today.
You’ve got a long and exciting career ahead of you, so it’s important to find something that matches both your interests and your strengths. If you enjoy what you do, work won’t feel like a chore—it’ll feel like a journey you’re excited to be on.
Here are some areas that are growing fast and could be great career paths in the future:
Digital Assets & Decentralized Finance: Think of digital money like Bitcoin. These systems run on code, and we need smart people to build and improve them.
Cybersecurity: As more of our lives go online, we need experts to protect our information from hackers and cyber threats.
Quantum Computing: This is a new kind of super-powerful computing that could change everything we know about technology.
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI): This is about building machines that can learn and think like humans. It’s still early, but it’s coming.
Self-Driving Cars: Cars that drive themselves use AI, and this field is growing fast.
Space Technology: Imagine writing the software that helps rockets land back on Earth or even travel to other planets!
Energy Management: As the world uses more energy, we need better ways to manage and save it.
All of these fields are full of exciting challenges and opportunities to make a difference.
To stay inspired and keep up with what’s happening in the tech world, I personally never miss an episode of Bloomberg Technology or Bloomberg Crypto—both are available on YouTube and offer great insights into the latest trends and innovations.
This is part of my own lifelong learning habit, and I encourage you to build one too. Staying curious and always learning is one of the best ways to grow and succeed in any career.
I’ve been in the technology field for over 30 years, and I’m still learning every day. The world of tech is always evolving, and that’s what makes it so exciting. Staying curious has helped me stay ahead and continue enjoying the journey.
Most importantly, choose a path that feels right for you. When your work matches your passion, you’ll enjoy the ride.
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
Great question—I'm really glad you're already thinking about your future!
Let me start with a quote from the world of hockey:
“Skate to where the puck is going, not where it is now.”
In other words, try to look ahead and think about where the world is going, not just what’s popular today.
You’ve got a long and exciting career ahead of you, so it’s important to find something that matches both your interests and your strengths. If you enjoy what you do, work won’t feel like a chore—it’ll feel like a journey you’re excited to be on.
Here are some areas that are growing fast and could be great career paths in the future:
Digital Assets & Decentralized Finance: Think of digital money like Bitcoin. These systems run on code, and we need smart people to build and improve them.
Cybersecurity: As more of our lives go online, we need experts to protect our information from hackers and cyber threats.
Quantum Computing: This is a new kind of super-powerful computing that could change everything we know about technology.
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI): This is about building machines that can learn and think like humans. It’s still early, but it’s coming.
Self-Driving Cars: Cars that drive themselves use AI, and this field is growing fast.
Space Technology: Imagine writing the software that helps rockets land back on Earth or even travel to other planets!
Energy Management: As the world uses more energy, we need better ways to manage and save it.
All of these fields are full of exciting challenges and opportunities to make a difference.
To stay inspired and keep up with what’s happening in the tech world, I personally never miss an episode of Bloomberg Technology or Bloomberg Crypto—both are available on YouTube and offer great insights into the latest trends and innovations.
This is part of my own lifelong learning habit, and I encourage you to build one too. Staying curious and always learning is one of the best ways to grow and succeed in any career.
I’ve been in the technology field for over 30 years, and I’m still learning every day. The world of tech is always evolving, and that’s what makes it so exciting. Staying curious has helped me stay ahead and continue enjoying the journey.
Most importantly, choose a path that feels right for you. When your work matches your passion, you’ll enjoy the ride.
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
Hello Billy, thank you for the possible careers to explore! As of right now for my career (apart of Software Engineering), I really want to explore Artificial General Intelligence, Space Tech and Cybersecurity.
Dani
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Kyle’s Answer
Dani - In the tech industry today, two key elements are shaping the future of IT: Data and AI. Companies are focusing on AI, making data crucial for powering AI tools. Businesses aim to cut costs and increase productivity, and IT professionals can now use AI to quickly provide answers, suggestions, and solutions tailored to business needs. While businesses will still require networking, cybersecurity, and infrastructure support, most tools in these areas will also be AI-driven. Learning how AI can boost your career is a smart choice in computer science right now.
Hello Kyle, I really appreciate you commenting!
Dani
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Vidhya’s Answer
AI won’t replace programmers, but it will become an essential tool in their arsenal. It’s about empowering humans to do more, not do less. - Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft.
AI can be a powerful tool for programmers, assisting them in writing better code and accelerating development cycles. AI still lacks creativity and problem-solving skills, so it won’t replace programmers.
AI is just a tool designed to help us and as long as we use it responsibly, it can make learning, working and everyday life easier. Even with AI advancing, skilled software engineers are needed to build, manage and improve the technology.
There are many other exciting opportunities in Computer Science beyond this. fields like Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing , Game development and Robotics are growing fast and offer great career paths. Go ahead with your passion!
AI can be a powerful tool for programmers, assisting them in writing better code and accelerating development cycles. AI still lacks creativity and problem-solving skills, so it won’t replace programmers.
AI is just a tool designed to help us and as long as we use it responsibly, it can make learning, working and everyday life easier. Even with AI advancing, skilled software engineers are needed to build, manage and improve the technology.
There are many other exciting opportunities in Computer Science beyond this. fields like Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing , Game development and Robotics are growing fast and offer great career paths. Go ahead with your passion!
Hello Vidhya, thank you for your comment and support! I really appreciate it :)
Dani
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Mario’s Answer
Hi Daniel!
I totally understand your feelings—choosing a career path is exciting but can also be a bit overwhelming with technology evolving so quickly. It's great that you're thinking ahead, which shows you're on the right path.
Don't let worries about AI stop you from pursuing software engineering if that's your passion. Many students feel the same, but skilled programmers who can team up with AI tools are becoming more valuable. Think of AI as a helpful assistant that takes care of routine tasks, so you can focus on the creative problem-solving that you love about coding.
Having backup plans is a smart move! Since you're interested in cybersecurity, that's a field with a lot of future potential. New technology always brings new security challenges, and we need people who can think like both attackers and defenders. If you enjoy solving puzzles, you'll probably love the challenge of cybersecurity.
There are other paths you might like too. If you're curious about how computers work on a deeper level, consider systems programming or embedded systems. These areas involve everything from the software in cars to the infrastructure that powers the internet. Or, if you enjoy connecting technical teams with the real world, technical product management could be a great fit, allowing you to shape what gets built and why.
I totally understand your feelings—choosing a career path is exciting but can also be a bit overwhelming with technology evolving so quickly. It's great that you're thinking ahead, which shows you're on the right path.
Don't let worries about AI stop you from pursuing software engineering if that's your passion. Many students feel the same, but skilled programmers who can team up with AI tools are becoming more valuable. Think of AI as a helpful assistant that takes care of routine tasks, so you can focus on the creative problem-solving that you love about coding.
Having backup plans is a smart move! Since you're interested in cybersecurity, that's a field with a lot of future potential. New technology always brings new security challenges, and we need people who can think like both attackers and defenders. If you enjoy solving puzzles, you'll probably love the challenge of cybersecurity.
There are other paths you might like too. If you're curious about how computers work on a deeper level, consider systems programming or embedded systems. These areas involve everything from the software in cars to the infrastructure that powers the internet. Or, if you enjoy connecting technical teams with the real world, technical product management could be a great fit, allowing you to shape what gets built and why.
Hello Mario, thank you for taking the time in writing your comment and showing the various paths for CS, I very much appreciate it!
Dani
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Hey Daniel,
Honestly, you’re asking the right questions early on. It’s true that AI is changing the landscape for software engineering, especially for junior roles, but that doesn’t mean opportunities are disappearing, they’re just evolving. If you enjoy coding and understanding how systems work, you’re already ahead. For example, cybersecurity is a field that’s only going to grow; attackers are always getting smarter, so defenders need to stay one step ahead, and there’s a constant demand for people who can think both like builders and breakers. Cloud engineering and DevOps are also strong options (what I do), since everything is moving to the cloud and companies need people who can automate infrastructure, optimize deployments, and manage cloud-native applications. If you’re interested in AI, consider learning how it works under the hood and even building with it—there’s a lot of work in training models, deploying them, and ensuring they’re ethical and reliable. Data science and analytics are also promising, since every company wants to make sense of their data, and if you enjoy finding patterns and telling stories with numbers, this could be a great fit. Embedded systems and IoT are worth looking into if you like working close to the hardware, as these areas are less likely to be automated away and offer plenty of interesting challenges. Finally, if you find you’re good at communicating and organizing, technical product management or consulting could be a great way to leverage your technical background while working with people and driving projects forward.
Honestly, you’re asking the right questions early on. It’s true that AI is changing the landscape for software engineering, especially for junior roles, but that doesn’t mean opportunities are disappearing, they’re just evolving. If you enjoy coding and understanding how systems work, you’re already ahead. For example, cybersecurity is a field that’s only going to grow; attackers are always getting smarter, so defenders need to stay one step ahead, and there’s a constant demand for people who can think both like builders and breakers. Cloud engineering and DevOps are also strong options (what I do), since everything is moving to the cloud and companies need people who can automate infrastructure, optimize deployments, and manage cloud-native applications. If you’re interested in AI, consider learning how it works under the hood and even building with it—there’s a lot of work in training models, deploying them, and ensuring they’re ethical and reliable. Data science and analytics are also promising, since every company wants to make sense of their data, and if you enjoy finding patterns and telling stories with numbers, this could be a great fit. Embedded systems and IoT are worth looking into if you like working close to the hardware, as these areas are less likely to be automated away and offer plenty of interesting challenges. Finally, if you find you’re good at communicating and organizing, technical product management or consulting could be a great way to leverage your technical background while working with people and driving projects forward.
Hello Scott, thank you for writing your comment. I enjoyed reading it and seeing the various opportunities there are!
Dani
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May’s Answer
There are SO many careers that you can go into with Computer Science. Even with the resurgence of AI, there will still be a need for software and cybersecurity engineers to keep up with the evolving technology and emerging threats.
I started college with a major in Computer Science and then eventually switched my Junior year to Computer Information Systems, which felt like a better fit for me. I am currently in cybersecurity consulting which helps companies improve their cybersecurity posture. Some of it is strategy driven and some of it is hands-on technical work. I've worked with people who have a Computer Science degree so that's one of the many careers you can pursue.
I would recommend looking into AI certifications; I took an AWS AI certification recently and I'm sure there's many more out there if you are interested in using your degree alongside AI.
I started college with a major in Computer Science and then eventually switched my Junior year to Computer Information Systems, which felt like a better fit for me. I am currently in cybersecurity consulting which helps companies improve their cybersecurity posture. Some of it is strategy driven and some of it is hands-on technical work. I've worked with people who have a Computer Science degree so that's one of the many careers you can pursue.
I would recommend looking into AI certifications; I took an AWS AI certification recently and I'm sure there's many more out there if you are interested in using your degree alongside AI.
Hello May, thank you a lot for writing your comment. It is really helpful :)
Dani
Updated
Yashwanth Reddy’s Answer
Some promising careers in Computer Science include software engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. These fields are in high demand, offer strong salaries, and have room for growth. If you're starting out, focus on building a solid foundation in programming, algorithms, and systems, and consider internships or certifications to explore which path fits you best.
Hello Yashwanth, thank you a lot for your comment :)
Dani
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
Hello Dani,
There are many exciting careers in computer science. Here are some options you might consider:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Software Architect
- Principal Software Engineer
- Cybersecurity Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Information Security Analyst
- Big Data Engineer
I've worked as a Development Software Engineer Manager, and I've had the pleasure of working with Software Engineers and Software Architects. These roles are available in many companies and organizations, offering great opportunities for growth and success.
There are many exciting careers in computer science. Here are some options you might consider:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Software Architect
- Principal Software Engineer
- Cybersecurity Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Information Security Analyst
- Big Data Engineer
I've worked as a Development Software Engineer Manager, and I've had the pleasure of working with Software Engineers and Software Architects. These roles are available in many companies and organizations, offering great opportunities for growth and success.
Hello Patricia, thank you so much for your comment!
Dani
Updated
Reddy’s Answer
Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning (AI & ML) will be have promising future
Hello Reddy, thank you for the comment!
Dani
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Computer science is a great exciting field. There are multiple promising areas for your consideration. You can explore programming, cyber security, computer systems operations. The cloud is also an exciting area that enabled a lot of applications. Keep in mind that there are a lot of possibilities depending on your interests. Most of these fields are expanding and very promising. I would recommend that you learn a little bit about each one of these areas and then deep dive into the area that you believe you have great interest for.
Hello Steve, thank you a lot for the advice!
Dani
Updated
Jim’s Answer
I'm glad you asked! My area of expertise, Internet and Networking Infrastructure has fallen out of favor for new students, and frankly a lot of us that run the core of the Internet are getting older and will be retiring in the next 10-20 years. What I'm talking about is network engineering, the systems that carry and route your connections between your laptop and the servers out in the Internet. Think the gigabits and terabits of data flowing under the ocean and across the continents ... someone has to make sure they get all the packets to the right place.
When I got started, it was before there really was an Internet, but today, I'd say start with learning about IP networks, switching, and routing. Dig into how that page on your web browser gets there. Understand how DNS works, how BGP tells the routers where to send your packet and what a CDN does for you.
This is the stuff most people overlook. They just assume it will work, but there's a whole career that's both lucrative, needed, and genuinely interesting.
When I got started, it was before there really was an Internet, but today, I'd say start with learning about IP networks, switching, and routing. Dig into how that page on your web browser gets there. Understand how DNS works, how BGP tells the routers where to send your packet and what a CDN does for you.
This is the stuff most people overlook. They just assume it will work, but there's a whole career that's both lucrative, needed, and genuinely interesting.
Hello Jim, thank you for your comment, I will take a look at it!
Dani
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DEVANG’s Answer
Computer science has lots of opportunities and person can work in IT security, Data Analyst , AI , software developer and many more fields. This roles also found in different industries including finance, healthcare , education, government sector and many more. Hope this helps.
Hello Devang, thank you for writing your comment!
Dani
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Kristin’s Answer
Software Engineers have many chances to work with and even create AI. You can learn to code AI models and explore fields like robotics, machine learning, and computer vision. People play a key role in developing AI technologies. You might also find systems engineering and devops interesting as a developer.
Hello Kristin, thank you for commenting, I appreciate it a lot!
Dani
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Federico’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
It's crucial to align your tech skills with your interests. Many jobs need both technical and functional abilities. As AI advances, it's essential to find workers who understand business processes and can suggest tech-supported solutions.
While coding is important, AI is now excellent at generating code from prompts. Therefore, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are vital for a tech career. The best technologies are those that solve problems and simplify our lives.
It's crucial to align your tech skills with your interests. Many jobs need both technical and functional abilities. As AI advances, it's essential to find workers who understand business processes and can suggest tech-supported solutions.
While coding is important, AI is now excellent at generating code from prompts. Therefore, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are vital for a tech career. The best technologies are those that solve problems and simplify our lives.
Hello Federico, thank you for your comment :)
Dani
Updated
Terry’s Answer
Cybersecurity is a promising field with growing demand and strong job security, especially as threats increase. AI and Machine Learning are booming and offer many paths from engineering to ethics. Software Engineering is still valuable, focus on system design, cloud and Dev Ops to stay future proof. Data Engineering is also in demand as every company needs clean, reliable data. Whichever path you choose, blend technical skills with problem-solving and adaptability to stay ahead.
Hello Terry, I really appreciate the comment :)
Dani
Updated
Vijay’s Answer
Cybersecurity is a fantastic career if you enjoy solving problems and want to make a real impact. You'll act like a digital detective, keeping data and people safe from online threats. It's a rapidly growing field, offering strong job security and excellent pay. The work is always exciting, as you're constantly learning new things to stay ahead.
Start by learning the basics of IT, computer networking, and operating systems like Windows and Linux.
Explore online learning platforms which have detailed information & courses around all domains of cybersecurity
There are some free platforms like tryhackme which allow you to have real hands-on practice in a game like environment
Explore certifications in the cybersecurity that appeal to you. They are really worth to credentialize your skills & knowledge to peers & potential employers
Vijay recommends the following next steps:
Hello Vijay, thank you for having the time to reply to my question. I really appreciate the recommended steps you gave for me!
Dani
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