Interest in computer science at Yeshiva College has seen fluctuations in enrollment, with the introductory Computer Science course reaching a peak in Fall 2022. That semester, 73 students were enrolled, while 26 students took the parallel course on the women’s campus. However, recent trends indicate a sharp decline in enrollment, with just 16 students on the Wilf campus and 4 students on the Beren campus this fall.
This downward trend mirrors a national decline in computer science majors. After a steady increase up to 2024, there was a reported 12.5% decrease in enrollment from 2025 to 2026 across the United States. While some attribute this drop to evolving perceptions about job security in the field, concerns remain regarding whether this reflects an actual shift in the job market.
Media coverage over the past years has painted a bleak picture of job prospects in technology, with one article in August 2025 suggesting that AI tools have significantly reduced the availability of entry-level programming positions. Despite such predictions, recent reports indicate that unemployment figures among new graduates were overstated, though anxiety persists about the relevance of a computer science degree in a landscape dominated by rapidly advancing technology.
To address these concerns, Professor Judah Diament and Professor Alan Broder, chairs of the computer science departments at Yeshiva College and Stern College, provided insights. Diament highlighted a historical pattern where technological advancements lead to speculation about the obsolescence of software engineers. He stated, “Productivity has never made software engineers irrelevant,” emphasizing that new tools create increased demand for skilled engineers who can manage emerging technologies effectively.
Diament shared an experience with a technical leader from a major tech company who relied heavily on AI for coding, only to find that the rapid production of code led to numerous production issues. He stressed that human oversight remains essential for effective software development.
Broder noted that recent graduates have found employment or graduate school placements at rates consistent with previous years. He mentioned that of 25 recent graduates from Yeshiva College, 23 secured job offers or graduate program admissions. Both he and Diament acknowledged that although the number of engineers needed might be fewer, new opportunities in AI-related positions are emerging as companies continue to seek skilled talent.
In response to the changing technological landscape, YU has modified its curriculum to incorporate AI applications in computer science courses. For example, an Advanced Distributed Systems course now allows students to use AI tools for their final projects, and a Data Structures course integrates AI to aid in building unit tests. However, some students, like Sarah Schafer, expressed concern about a possible disconnect between academic training and the evolving demands of the industry.
Schafer reflected, “Bad engineers just end up producing more bad code,” highlighting her worries about the adequacy of her education in preparing her for a successful career. Future graduates face uncertainties in how their skills will adapt to the changing landscape of computer science jobs, a sentiment echoed by students like Akiva Nachum Rosenberg, who emphasized the importance of foundational computer skills, regardless of market fluctuations.
Looking ahead, students must navigate a shifting paradigm. While some pursue computer science for its intellectual challenges, others may reconsider their paths based on perceived job stability. Students like Yakov Halstuch remain optimistic, valuing the critical thinking skills learned through their computer science education.
