The Impact of a Computer Science Degree on Entry-Level Software Engineering

When I earned my degree in computer science in 1968, it didn't do me much good. At that time, I was already earning a good income, and the companies that hired me were looking for experience rather than degrees. Everywhere I went, they told me that they knew if they hired me, I would be gone in six months, seeking better opportunities. As a father, I watched my son's journey in software engineering, and his story highlights the nuanced impact of formal education in the field.

My Experience

My experience in the 1960s showed that having a degree in computer science didn't necessarily provide a competitive advantage. My job required experience more than a degree, and I was doing well without it. However, as the market evolved, the value of a degree shifted.

My Son's Journey

My son began programming at 15, teaching himself and taking on small jobs. At 17, while he was still attending junior college, three ex-IBM VPs and their secretary offered him a job at a startup. They all learned Unix together, and the company they built thrived. Even though my son had a degree, his real-world experience and industry connections proved invaluable, allowing him to advance in his career.

The Role of Degrees in the Job Market

Today, a degree in computer science, software engineering, math, or a related field can significantly affect whether you get hired. Companies often prefer candidates with these qualifications because it's easier to train someone with a solid academic foundation in programming languages, data structures, and algorithms.

Industry-Specific Requirements

Some industries require a specific educational background to match their product offerings. For example, in the software engineering field, a coding bootcamp might not suffice, as these bootcamps often focus more on practical skills and less on theoretical knowledge like Calculus or Physics. However, understanding these concepts is crucial for those who want to work in highly technical positions or need to understand the underlying principles of software development.

Choosing the Right Career Path

The importance of a degree varies depending on the specific role you want. For instance, graphic arts might be more relevant for designing web pages or video games, while database skills are highly valuable in the banking sector. Therefore, when you're entering the job market, it's crucial to align your education with your career goals.

Focusing on Strengths

Ultimately, the key is to apply for positions that match your skills and strengths. For instance, in my career, I focused on life-critical software, where a Master's degree was often preferred. However, in highly technical jobs like mine, 80% of the engineers hold at least a Master's degree. This trend underscores the growing importance of advanced education in certain sectors.

Whether a computer science degree is worth it depends largely on your career aspirations. If you aim to work in a highly technical field, a Master's or a PhD might be necessary. For other career paths, a bachelor's degree or relevant certifications might be sufficient. The most important factor is to have a clear understanding of the industry you want to enter and the skills required for the roles within it.