AI may be denting computer science graduates’ job prospects, data shows
Data obtained for the 2027 Guardian University Guide published on Saturday, September 11, 2026, shows that coding and software development were the fastest-falling occupations for graduates last year, while employer demand for graduates in well-paid roles in financial categories such as economists and management consultants also declined. Experts said graduates looking to work in those […]
The 2027 Guardian University Guide reveals that AI may be adversely affecting the job prospects of computer science graduates. Coding and software development have become the fastest-falling occupations for graduates, while demand for skilled professionals in financial areas like economists and management consultants has also declined.
Matt Hiely-Rayner, the director of Intelligent Metrix consultancy, explains that the proportion of computer science graduates finding professional jobs as coders or programmers has dropped from around 40% to just 28% in the previous year. The proportion of computer science graduates entering any graduate-level occupation has also decreased from over 60% two years ago to just 50%.
Charlie Ball, head of labour market intelligence for Jisc, notes that computer science graduates are diversifying into related roles like cybersecurity and network engineering. However, the overall trend in the software developer labour market is evident. Ball suggests that while AI may not have caused the decline directly, it has played a significant role in shaping the industry.
Economics graduates, who once enjoyed robust demand from employers, are also experiencing changes in their job prospects. They are now expected to have familiarity with AI, as most finance employers are using it to change rather than replace jobs. Despite this, the market remains fast-moving, and some employers are experimenting with AI, leading to potential job cuts.
The Guardian's annual assessment of undergraduate courses highlights the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the London School of Economics as the top three overall. The University of Birmingham has risen to its highest ever position of 14th overall due to improved student satisfaction. Birmingham's Vice-Chancellor, Adam Tickell, explains that the university is preparing students for the changing labour market by incorporating sought-after skills into its courses and providing options for undergraduates to add an intercalated year in subjects like AI and data science.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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