Taiwan Students Rethink Computer Science Careers as AI Advances
By Klein Wang/Lily LaMattina
Is AI making a computer science degree less valuable? At National Taiwan University, the computer science course fell from fourth to 11th in popularity this year, as some worry AI could make the degree less competitive in the job market. But students and professors say the degree still provides a valuable foundation in the field.
REPORTER:
For years, computer science was one of the most sought-after college degrees in Taiwan. Software engineers were in high demand, with high salaries and the promise of stable careers. But AI is changing that narrative.
REPORTER:
At National Taiwan University, computer science fell from fourth to 11th in popularity this year. The shift sparking debate among students online. Some worry AI could replace coding work, making a computer science degree less competitive in the job market. But some students on campus say they still see the value of the degree.
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT:
I chose it because it's a field I'm genuinely interested in so I think I'll still finish the degree. Even if I think AI might affect my future career path I think after AI replaces some jobs there may be other, new jobs that emerge.
REPORTER:
That optimism is shared by both undergraduate and graduate students alike. They argue that computer science can still provide a foundation for adapting as technology changes.
PHD STUDENT:
But as computer science students I think having that background gives us an advantage when exploring deeper or more promising applications in the future compared with students who don't have a computer science background.
REPORTER:
Professors are also rejecting the idea that AI makes coding skills obsolete. They say students still need to understand the foundations behind the technology.
Kao Cheng-yan (RETIRED COMPUTER SCIENCE PROFESSOR, NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY):
Information retrieval, search, databases these underlying technologies programming languages and overall software architecture are all very important.
REPORTER:
AI may reduce demand for some entry-level work, but students say the key is adding courses in addition to coding that broadens their skills.
PHD STUDENT:
I don't think that means we'll be unable to find jobs. As I mentioned, what may be replaced are people who only know how to code but for our field if you take courses in other fields or departments and build knowledge in other areas I think that actually gives us an advantage.
REPORTER:
Young professionals are also having to adapt.
WORKING PROFESSIONAL:
So I think students entering the field today will still be learning new skills and those skills will continue to evolve over time. Right, I just think that's how technology works. I think students entering now can still learn what they need for the future and they can continue learning newer things as technology advances.
REPORTER:
For students, the question is less whether AI will change their careers rather whether they can keep changing with it.
