Don’t Major in Computer Science [Here’s Why]

Computer science is a fascinating field to study, but it might not be the right major for you. Just like every other major, CS isn’t suited for everyone. Why it has some benefits, this article is about reasons you may not want to become a computer science major.

For most of us, it’s hard to imagine a life without computers. We rely on them for everything from browsing the web to playing games and watching movies. But not everyone can see the attraction of computer science as a major.

The field is filled with challenges and setbacks, and you may find yourself struggling in your classes. You’ll spend many hours learning new techniques and programs that you don’t know how to use.

If you’re considering majoring in computer science, read on before you make your decision.

What is a Computer Science Major?

Computer science is a broad study area encompassing computer science, information technology (IT), and data science. It includes theoretical analyses, algorithms, programming languages, and their application in various fields.

The major areas of study are artificial intelligence, computational complexity theory, computer graphics, database systems, information retrieval, machine learning, and software engineering.

It is a field where you will be focusing on the application of computer technology to solve real-world problems.

You will be involved in solving problems related to the design, development, and operation of information systems and computer software applications.

1. Don’t major in computer science if you don’t like math

It’s not just the math courses that are tough, though; they’re also often among the most interesting and engaging classes of the entire college career.

You could get into CS by majoring in something else, but if math isn’t your thing, then you’ll probably hate it when you get into it.

2. Don’t major in computer science if you’re not interested in computers

If you don’t like computers, then it might be hard for you to enjoy the coursework. CS majors are constantly interacting with computers, so they need to know how to use them.

You could end up feeling frustrated if your computer skills aren’t up to scratch or if the programs that you come across aren’t designed for people who have different needs than yourself.

3. It is extremely difficult and requires a lot of time and effort

If you are looking for an easy course, majoring in computer science isn’t the best idea. It is extremely difficult and requires a lot of time and effort. You will have to keep track of what you need to study each day.

You will have assignments due every week. Sometimes more than once a week, which means that if you don’t study enough each night before going to bed, you won’t get any sleep and will have less energy during the day.

4. It takes many years to be a specialist

Computer science is one of those subjects where there are so many sub-disciplines that it might take you more than a decade to become an expert in any area (at least if you choose a program that requires lots of coursework).

If you want to work in the industry or academia, then this might not be a problem — but if you want to start working immediately after graduation, then it could be tough going.

5. If you love art and humanities more than computers

Computer science can be a fascinating subject. It’s a field that has truly caught the attention of the world, and there are many career opportunities in it.

However, if you love art and humanities more than computers, then it might not be worth your time to major in computer science.

6. It offers little opportunity to obtain social skills

Indeed, you can’t get a job unless you have a degree in computer science, but the degree itself does little to prepare you for life after graduation.

Most CS students don’t find themselves in positions where they need to collaborate with others or express their ideas clearly.

This means that many of them have difficulty communicating with others, whether it’s at work or in college classes.

7. It requires a very specific set of skills, making it harder to pivot from one field to the next

If you have no interest in working as a programmer, this may not be the major for you. While programming skills are essential for almost any career, they’re not everything.

Even if you want to work at a startup or are passionate about computer security, being a good engineer won’t translate directly into success in your field. You need to know how to code.

8. You won’t learn much about other fields of engineering

Another reason you shouldn’t major in computer science is that you won’t learn much about other fields of engineering. This is because it is not a field of study, but rather an interdisciplinary field of inquiry.

CS encompasses all aspects of computing, including software engineering, algorithms and data structures, operating systems, databases, artificial intelligence, and data mining.

9. You get bored easily

If you find yourself getting bored easily while reading or doing homework, then maybe computer science isn’t for you.

Not only will this make it difficult for you to retain information from class or textbooks, but it could also lead to procrastination or even depression if you don’t like what you’re learning or how much work is involved with it.

What Can You Do With a Computer Science Major?

  • Data scientist
  • Software tester
  • Systems analyst
  • Web developer
  • Product manager
  • Business analyst
  • Computer scientist
  • Software engineer
  • Software developer
  • Network architect
  • Full-stack developer
  • Engineering manager
  • Database administrator
  • User interface designer
  • Cloud computing engineer
  • Information security analyst
  • Information technology specialist
  • Chief information security officer
  • Software quality assurance manager
  • Mobile application designer or developer
  • Research and development (R&D) scientist
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning engineer

Job Outlook for Computer Science Major

According to BLS projections, from 2020 to 2030available jobs for computer science majors are expected to grow by 22%. That’s much faster than the average for all occupations.

On average, over the decade, BLS projected about 3,200 available jobs for mathematicians every year. Quite lower than that of mathematics majors which are about 5, 200.

The 3,200 jobs are expected to be available as a result of the need to replace workers who change careers/jobs or exit the labor force.

Generally, getting a job after graduation as a computer science major can be a little difficult as there are not so many available jobs compared to some other disciplines.

How Much Does a Computer Science Major Make?

Computer science majors can pursue a variety of career paths, including programming or designing software applications or systems, web design, database management, computer forensics and security, system administration and management, data mining and data analysis, computer hardware engineering, and robotics.

Your average salary will depend on any of these careers you choose to pursue. Therefore, the average salary can vary by job title.

However, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, the average salary of computer science majors per year was $131,490 as of May 2021.

FAQs

Is computer science a safe major?

Computer science is a safe major with great opportunities and earning potential. However, it’s a hard major.

Is computer science a good major for the future?

Following the Bureau of Labour Statistics’ prediction that from 2020 to 2030, available jobs for computer science degree holders are expected to grow by 22%, computer science is a good major for the future.

Conclusion: Is a Computer Science Major Worth It?

If don’t like computers or abstract concepts, then a degree in computer science is not worth it for you. But if you’re one of those people who love computers and programming, then don’t let the above reasons dissuade you from pursuing this interest in college.

You’ll enjoy your time more than anything else, and once you graduate, you’ll be ready to take on the world helping individuals, organizations,s and even the government with your skills depending on where you get employment.

Nevertheless, you must know that this is one of the most difficult majors and it requires a lot of time and effort. Therefore be sure you’re ready to put in the work and time required before you settle with computer science.

I hope you found this article helpful. You should check out the degree pages of the website. There are helpful articles that will point you to what you can do with whatever degree you choose to pursue.

Thank you for reading.