AI may be denting computer science graduates’ job prospects, UK data shows

A new analysis of recent UK graduate data reveals that AI may be negatively impacting the job prospects of computer science and economics graduates. The 2027 Guardian University Guide indicates that coding and software development are among the fastest-falling occupations for graduates, with the proportion of computer science students finding professional coding roles decreasing from about 40% to 28%.

Additionally, the proportion of computer science graduates moving into any graduate-level occupation has dropped from over 60% to 50%. Experts suggest that AI may be directly responsible for these trends, as its growing capabilities allow for the rapid production of software and analysis. Matt Hiely-Rayner, director of the Intelligent Metrix consultancy, noted that AI's efficiency in handling routine tasks in computer science may be a key factor in the observed decline.

Charlie Ball, head of labour market intelligence for Jisc, acknowledged that while AI has likely played a role, there is currently insufficient evidence to definitively attribute the changes to it. However, he pointed to the diversification of computer science graduates into related fields like cybersecurity and network engineering as a potential response to the shifting job market.

Similarly, economics graduates, who previously enjoyed strong demand in well-paid roles, have also experienced a decline in employment prospects. Ball explained that finance employers are leveraging AI as a tool to enhance job functions rather than replace them entirely, but they seek graduates familiar with AI technologies. Universities are adapting by incorporating in-demand skills into their curricula and offering specialized intercalated years in subjects such as AI and data science.