Is Computer Science Becoming the New Civil Engineering? A Deep Dive into Career Trends

1. The Golden Decade of China's Internet

From 2011‑2012 to the recent years, China experienced a "golden decade" of internet growth, where many students aimed to start companies, build products, or pursue PhDs instead of seeking ordinary jobs. Venture capital was eager to fund app prototypes, and even junior students could secure seed funding, creating a highly competitive and lucrative environment.

During this period, salaries were high, but the market became increasingly saturated, and the rapid expansion of mobile internet eventually slowed, leading to a more elite and selective hiring landscape.

2. Talking About Civil Engineering

The author recounts his father's experience in civil engineering, noting that the profession was attractive in the 1980s‑2000s due to massive infrastructure projects and housing construction. While civil engineers once earned substantial incomes and could buy multiple properties, the sector has since cooled as China's construction needs plateaued.

Even though the civil engineering market still offers occasional high‑pay opportunities, especially abroad, it no longer enjoys the same growth momentum as the earlier internet boom.

3. What Is Computer Science Really Like?

The author argues that choosing computer science should be driven by genuine interest in programming and problem‑solving rather than solely by potential earnings, as the field's peak profitability may only last a few years while a career can span four decades.

While entry‑level jobs in tech remain relatively easy to obtain, especially for those with a degree and some project experience, the author warns against chasing high‑profile algorithm positions that demand intense, long‑term competition.

He also notes that layoffs tend to affect roles with high replaceability—simple business‑logic developers—while senior engineers and specialists are less likely to be cut.

4. Computer Science Remains One of the Best Majors

Despite the end of the internet's golden era, the author believes computer science still offers one of the best career paths for the coming decades, with strong salary prospects compared to fields like finance, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, law, or medicine.

Success in tech primarily depends on solid education, project experience, and interview preparation, while long‑term earnings are also influenced by personal investments and career choices.