Is computer science going to be replaced by AI? AI is changing how computing work gets done, and federal projections show the effect differs by role. Some routine coding tasks are becoming more automated, while software developer and information security analyst roles are both projected to grow. If you are considering aninformation technology degree, the more useful question is which computing roles are growing and which skills can prepare you for them.
What You Should Know Before You Start
Will AI make my degree outdated before I graduate?
AI is changing how some computing work is done. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) still lists a bachelor’s degree as the typical entry-level education for computer programmers, software developers, and information security analysts. Degree programs that focus on programming, data analytics, and systems fundamentals help students develop skills that remain relevant as technology evolves. Specific tools, such as programming languages, frameworks, cloud platforms, and AI coding assistants, may change or be replaced over time. The underlying concepts and problem-solving skills tend to evolve more gradually. By building astrong foundation in these areas, students can graduate with knowledge they can continue to apply as new technologies emerge.
Do I still need strong math and coding skills if AI can write code?
Yes, though the emphasis is shifting, strong math and coding fundamentals are still crucial for debugging and evaluating AI output. AI tools can generate code quickly, but understanding the logic, data structures, and systems thinking behind it lets someone direct, evaluate, and fix the result, and that reasoning is still built into most information technology and computer science coursework.
How long does an information technology degree take?
The timeline depends on the degree level. Abachelor’s degreein information technology or computer science typically takes about four years to complete, while anassociate degreeusually takes about two years and can serve as a pathway toward a bachelor’s degree later.
Table of Contents
What Is Artificial Intelligence in Computer Science?
According to Stanford University’s technology training team, artificial intelligence is generally defined as a branch of computer science focused on creating systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as understanding language, recognizing patterns, solving problems, and learning from experience.[1] AI builds on the same foundations students already study, including algorithms, programming, data, and computing systems.
Students may encounter AI across areas such as:
- Machine learning:Systems that learn patterns from data and improve performance over time
- Neural networks and deep learning:Technologies used in many modern AI applications
- Natural language processing:How computers understand and work with human language
- Computer vision:How systems interpret images and visual information
- Data science:How data is collected, analyzed, and prepared for use in models
At Keiser University, theBachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligenceincludes machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, so you can study these areas directly. Computing professionals also play a role in testing AI systems, identifying their limitations, and deciding how they should be used responsibly.
Will AI Replace Programmers? What the Federal Data Shows
BLS projects very different outcomes for different computing roles, and AI is part of the reason.
According to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, last updated August 27, 2026, employment for computer programmers is projected to decline 7% from 2025 to 2035.[2] BLS notes that many companies are expected to use technologies such as AI to automate repetitive programming tasks, and that some higher-skilled programming work will likely shift to software developers.[2] Programmers write, modify, and test code, while software developers design applications and plan how the pieces of a system will work together.
BLS projects employment for software developers to grow 10% over the same period, adding 174,700 jobs.[3] The agency attributes the strong demand to the continued expansion of software development for AI, the Internet of Things, robotics, and other automation applications.
Information security is also projected to grow. BLS projects employment for information security analysts to grow 21% from 2025 to 2035, citing increased use of AI as one factor driving the need for analysts to secure new technologies from outside threats.[4]
For students, the difference between these roles matters. Programming work that is mostly repetitive may face more automation, while BLS projects strong growth for software developers and information security analysts.
Why Computing Fundamentals Still Matter as AI Writes More Code
Computer science coursework typically builds a foundation in algorithms, programming, data structures, and problem-solving. At Keiser University, theComputer Information Systemsprogram covers many of the same fundamentals while placing more emphasis on how technology supports business operations, offering another path depending on your career goals.
That foundation matters because companies are expected to use AI to automate repetitive programming tasks.[2] AI can help produce code quickly, but code still has to be reviewed for accuracy, security, and fit for the problem it is meant to solve.
Understanding why a system works, where it can fail, and how to improve it can help you keep learning as the tools around programming continue to change.
The Future of Computer Science: Where Demand Is Growing
BLS projections run through 2035, a window that includes 2030. Overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations over that period, though growth varies by role.[5]
Several areas of computing connect directly to AI:
- Software Engineering: Building and maintaining the applications organizations rely on, including the software that powers AI tools themselves, a focus of Keiser’sBachelor of Science in Software Engineering.
- Cybersecurity: Protecting networks, data, and systems as organizations adopt more connected and AI-enabled technology, a focus of Keiser’sBachelor of Science in Cybersecurity.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: According to BLS, employment for computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 22% from 2025 to 2035, and these experts will be needed to help create new AI technologies.[6] Keiser’sBachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligenceis one pathway into this area.
- Cloud Infrastructure: AI applications depend on computing infrastructure, networks, data storage, and security working together, the focus of Keiser’sBachelor of Science in Cloud Engineering.
At Keiser University, we focus on helping students build the technical foundation that carries across these programs, so you can adapt as AI and other technologies change how this work gets done. Ourguide to IT degree concentrationsbreaks down how they compare.
Why Keiser University
At Keiser University, we help students build a broad foundation in computing while also giving them opportunities to specialize in areas that continue to evolve with the technology industry. Ourinformation technology programsinclude bachelor’s degree options inArtificial Intelligence,Cybersecurity,Software Engineering, andCloud Engineering, along with associate degree pathways and aMaster of Science in Information Security.
Keiser University also offers small class sizes and instruction from faculty with industry experience, giving students more opportunities to ask questions, build practical skills, and connect what they learn in class to real-world technology careers. Flexible scheduling options can also make it easier for working adults to continue their education while <a href="https://bitcomme.com/ben-zinder-joins-pkf-investment-banking-as-managing-director-and-co-head-2/” title=”Ben Zinder Joins PKF Investment Banking as Managing Director and Co-Head”>managing other responsibilities.
For 50 years, we have empowered students through career-focused education, building a legacy of academic excellence and student success while helping shape the future of higher education.
Since opening our doors in 1977, the university has remained committed to preparing graduates with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to succeed in today’s workforce. Keiser University has grown into one of Florida’s largest private, not-for-profit universities, serving approximately 20,000 students and a network of more than 100,000 alumni.
As a Keiser University student, you’ll benefit from:
- An institutionallySACSCOC-accredited university. SACSCOC accreditation confirms that Keiser University meets established standards for educational quality and institutional effectiveness, ensuring students that Keiser University is committed to maintaining academic excellence.
- Over100 programsto choose from. Keiser’s degree programs align with today’s workforce and the real-world experience employers look for.
- Flexible learning options, including on-campus, online, hybrid, and one-class-at-a-time formats.
- Personalized academic and career support, with dedicated faculty and career services.
- Financial aid, scholarships, and tuition guidance to help make education more accessible.
- Proud member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU).
- 50 years of educational excellence with a proven focus on student success and outcomes.
If you are weighing computing programs, our admissions counselors can help you compare theinformation technology degreesoffered at Keiser and find the one that fits your goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I start with an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in information technology?
The right starting point depends on your timeline and goals. As AI takes on more routine coding tasks, the broader technical foundation of a bachelor’s degree becomes more useful for roles in programming, software development, and information security. An associate degree offers a faster path into the field. At Keiser University, many students start with the Associate of Science in Information Technology and transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree later.
Do I need a computer science degree to work in artificial intelligence or cybersecurity?
Not every technology role follows the same education path. For cybersecurity, BLS notes that some information security analysts enter the field through training and certifications, though a bachelor’s degree is the typical entry-level education.[7] For artificial intelligence roles, BLS lists
a master’s degree as typical.[8] At Keiser University, ourArtificial IntelligenceandCybersecurityprograms build the broader technical knowledge these fields require.
How can I keep my skills current as AI continues to change the field?
Treat specific tools and languages as things that will keep changing, and focus on skills that transfer: programming logic, data fundamentals, and evaluating new tools as they appear. Many computing professionals also continue their education through certifications or an advanced degree.
Sources
- AI Demystified: Introduction to AI, Stanford University IT
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer Programmers, Job Outlook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers, Job Outlook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Information Security Analysts, Job Outlook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer and Information Technology Occupations, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer and Information Research Scientists, Job Outlook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Information Security Analysts, How to Become One, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer and Information Research Scientists, How to Become One, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
