what is the compsci job sector really like?

I see a lot of things online saying that if you take CS you wont be able to find a good job. Is this really true? What is the current state of the software/AI industry really like?

Reply 1

Rob Bellic

It's bad. There's been a glut of grads so getting an entry level job is hard, plus loads of people have been jumping on the CS bandwagon because they think it will make them rich (it won't).

There isn't really an "AI industry" in the UK. Most of the jobs in AI are in the US, and the only AI jobs in the UK are for researchers or for professionals with lots of experience. Everyone doing "AI degrees" (which are just re-skinned data science courses) at mediocre unis now are going to be struggling to find related employment when they graduate.

Reply 2

University of Salford Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post by akashDTV

I see a lot of things online saying that if you take CS you wont be able to find a good job. Is this really true? What is the current state of the software/AI industry really like?

Hi there,

The concern about finding a good job in computer science, particularly in fields like software development or AI, is understandable - it’s a competitive industry, but don’t let that discourage you. While it’s true that breaking into the field can feel challenging initially, once you get your foot in the door, opportunities tend to open up quickly. I’ve seen this first-hand with colleagues on my placement and students from my course.

Here are some key points to consider:

Demand for Skills: The tech industry continues to grow, and skilled professionals in software engineering, AI, and data science are in demand. While there may be fluctuations in specific sectors, companies are always looking for people with strong technical skills and a problem-solving mindset.

Getting Experience Matters: Internships, placements, or personal projects can make a huge difference when job hunting. Employers value practical experience that demonstrates your ability to apply what you’ve learned. If your university offers a placement year or industry connections, it’s worth exploring those options.

University Careers Services: At the University of Salford, our careers service helps students with job hunting, CV writing, and even mock interviews to prepare for the application process. I recommend checking if your university has a similar service - it can be incredibly valuable in helping you stand out in a competitive field.

Specialisation and Continuous Learning: As the AI and software industries evolve, staying current with technologies and tools is crucial. Consider certifications, attending hackathons, or contributing to open-source projects to demonstrate your commitment to learning and growth.

While competition exists, don’t let the fear of the job market hold you back. With preparation, practical experience, and determination, you’ll put yourself in a strong position to succeed. The effort is worth it

Best of luck with your studies and future career - you’ve got this! 😊
Arslan – University of Salford Student Representative