Replit CEO Amjad Masad has cautioned students against pursuing computer science degrees purely for high-paying tech jobs, arguing that artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping what it means to build a software career.
AI Reshapes Computer Science Career Expectations
Speaking on the “20VC” podcast released on Saturday, Masad said students should avoid entering computer science if they are motivated only by financial gain or expectations of landing roles at companies like Google.
Masad said, “If you don’t feel like you’re drawn to it like a fly drawn to a light, then don’t go into it because someone told you you’re going to make a boatload of money working for Google.”
He said computer science became a magnet for enrollment after it developed a reputation as a straightforward path to lucrative work.
In his view, the rise of AI tools means that the dynamic is shifting and the easy-money narrative no longer fits.
Masad also called out the advice itself, saying, “It’s pretty dumb to tell people to go into computer science if they’re not really intrinsically interested in it.”
Masad, who co-founded coding platform Replit, said the field has shifted significantly from the early 2000s, when many entered computer science out of curiosity about how computers work.
He said rising demand later turned it into a "hyped up" path to high salaries, but argued AI is now changing that equation by automating more coding tasks.
Still, he said opportunities remain for those deeply interested in the field, especially in areas like machine learning and systems development, where foundational knowledge continues to matter.
AI Reshaped Tech Hiring And Coding Careers
Earlier, Reddit Inc (NYSE:RDDT) CEO Steve Huffman said AI-trained candidates, especially new graduates, could have held an advantage in hiring because they were already familiar with AI-assisted coding.
He noted that younger engineers adapted more naturally to AI tools, while companies risked missing top talent if they delayed hiring.
At Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:UBER), executives reported a major shift toward AI-driven development, with most engineers using AI tools and internal systems generating thousands of code changes weekly with limited human involvement.
Former President Barack Obama also warned that AI could already outperform a large share of programmers and automate many routine coding tasks, suggesting that only highly skilled developers would remain in strong demand.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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