What’s Behind the Drop in Computer Science Majors
A recent All Sides with Amy Juravich Tech Tuesday segment on WOSU Public Media explored a trend many IT educators are already seeing: enrollment in computer science programs is declining after more than a decade of rapid growth.
The conversation featured guest Doug McCollough, Executive Director of The Beta District and a member of NITIC’s National Visiting Committee (NVC). While the discussion was grounded in Central Ohio, the themes resonate well beyond the region.
Guests pointed to growing student uncertainty around traditional computer science pathways, driven in part by highly visible tech layoffs and questions about how AI is reshaping entry‑level roles. At the same time, industry leaders emphasized that technology jobs are not disappearing. They are evolving. Employers continue to value graduates who can adapt, apply technical skills in real‑world contexts, and work alongside emerging technologies.
For IT faculty nationwide, the takeaway is clear: enrollment shifts are as much about perception as they are about labor market realities. The conversation reinforces the importance of employer engagement, applied learning, and clearly communicating how IT and computing careers are changing, not shrinking.
Listen to the full conversation:
Tech Tuesday: What’s behind the drop in computer science majors?