Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It? A Candid Look at the Realities

Why Choose (or Not Choose) Computer Science?

On Zhihu a user asked, “Why not choose a computer science major?” The highly up‑voted answer, though subjective, outlines several perceived drawbacks of the profession.

Key Observations

Job stability concerns : Many believe a programmer’s career peaks around 35 years old, after which they risk being replaced by younger talent.

Lack of social status : Compared with lawyers, doctors, or civil servants, programmers are seen as having fewer societal resources and less prestige.

Health and lifestyle issues : Long hours, constant debugging, and a sedentary lifestyle lead to hair loss, back problems, and vision issues.

Personal Experience

The author, a 985‑graduated computer science student, describes his own journey: intense LeetCode practice, high‑pressure internships, and eventual employment at a large tech firm. He notes that salaries often appear inflated because they include stock options that vest over several years, and that real take‑home pay can be modest after taxes.

Industry Evolution

In the early 2000s, computer science was low on the prestige ladder, but the rise of mobile internet and AI revived its appeal. However, the author argues that the current internet boom has passed, with capital now favoring autonomous driving and new energy sectors.

Who Might Still Benefit?

Women : Few females in tech can give male colleagues a gender advantage in the workplace.

Extremely poor backgrounds : CS offers relatively quick employment after a bachelor’s degree.

Otaku, bookworms, introverts : Those who prefer computers over social interaction.

Immigration seekers : Programming skills can facilitate moving abroad.

Students from lower‑tier universities : CS can provide decent office jobs when other fields offer few opportunities.

Life Timeline Comparison

The answer presents a detailed timeline comparing three fictional characters—A (computer science), B (medicine), and C (finance)—through high school, university, internships, graduate studies, employment, marriage, and long‑term career outcomes. It highlights the heavy workload, health risks, and limited social life for the CS path versus the relatively stable, higher‑status trajectories of the other fields.

Conclusion

The author concludes that computer science is not the universally “sweet” career it is portrayed to be; its future earnings depend heavily on the continued growth of the internet, which may be waning. Prospective students should weigh personal circumstances and consider alternative majors unless they fit the specific profiles listed above.