Job market tightens for computer science and computer engineering grads as layoffs flood the pool
Unemployment remains notable for computer science and computer engineering majors, with rates at 6.1% and 7.5% respectively—among the highest across all college majors. The combination of fresh graduates entering the market at scale and widespread layoffs among seasoned software engineers has created a crowded field, making it harder for new entrants to stand out.
Shift in demand favors experience
Industry experts say the demand for software engineers hasn’t disappeared, but it has shifted toward more experienced talent. Daniel Zhao, chief economist at Glassdoor, notes that each year about 100,000 computer science graduates join the workforce. In an environment where overall tech employment isn’t growing, that wave of new graduates competes for a relatively small set of available roles, effectively clogging the hiring pipeline. At the same time, large tech companies such as Google, Meta, and Amazon have trimmed payrolls, leaving a surplus of seasoned candidates in the mix and raising the bar for entry-level applicants.
What new grads can do
Despite the tougher landscape, software engineering remains a high-value career with long-term potential. Standing out requires more than just a degree. The guidance from industry experts centers on a few pragmatic strategies:
– Don’t limit yourself to big tech: Opportunities exist across industries. Many sectors, including healthcare and finance, continue to hire tech talent and can offer stability even when the broader market faces headwinds.
– Stay current and upskill: Keeping pace with evolving technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, can differentiate candidates. Flexibility matters as technology changes—rather than going very deep into a single tool, be prepared to adapt to new developments.
– Diversify your job search channels: Relying on a single channel can narrow your opportunities. In addition to online boards, tap into your university career office, alumni networks, and other professional connections. Referrals and introductions remain a powerful route to opportunities.
– Leverage networks and weak ties: Networking remains essential. A “weak tie”—an acquaintance who can connect you to a new opportunity—continues to be an effective path to jobs, according to researchers cited in industry discussions.
– Engage with meetups and online communities: Building relationships with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn and at industry meetups can broaden your access to roles that aren’t always posted publicly.
Bottom line
The tech industry is still thriving in many respects, but the road to getting in has become more complex. A computer science or computer engineering degree is still a strong start, not a guaranteed ticket to a lucrative job. With deliberate upskilling, broadening of targets beyond big tech, and a proactive, network-driven job search, new graduates can still land software engineering roles despite the current competitive environment.
Summary
– CS and CE unemployment rates are among the highest, reflecting a crowded market due to large numbers of new graduates and layoffs among experienced engineers.
– Demand now leans toward more experienced developers, but opportunities remain across industries beyond major tech players.
– To improve odds, graduates should upskill, stay current with AI and other technologies, diversify job search channels, and leverage networks and referrals.
Additional notes for editors
– Consider adding concrete examples of in-demand tech stacks or certifications that align with the upskilling advice (e.g., AI/ML coursework, cloud platforms) to provide actionable guidance.
– A short sidebar with a 60-90 day plan for new grads could help readers translate these recommendations into steps.