US Computer Science Enrollments Plunge as AI Reshapes Entry-Level Tech Jobs

Undergraduate enrollment in U.S. computer and information science programs fell more than 12% this fall, with graduate rolls down over 10%, according to preliminary fall data released Thursday by the National Student Clearinghouse, extending last year's decline and reversing years of growth. Over two years, undergraduate computer science enrollment has dropped 18.4% and graduate enrollment 27.1%. Matthew Holsapple, NSC's senior director of research, called the magnitude "striking" for a field that until recently was among higher education's fastest-growing. The shift comes as AI makes computer science graduates' job searches harder and companies cut many entry-level programming roles. An August Bureau of Labor Statistics report identified computer and math occupations as among those most exposed to AI. Overall undergraduate enrollment was nearly flat, up 0.6%, the fourth straight annual gain but below fall 2025's 2.4%. Graduate enrollment slipped 1.6% on a 3.7% drop in master's programs. Community colleges were the sole bright spot, adding 1.2%. The preliminary data exclude international students; a January final report will include them.