Demand for computer scientists surging — not shrinking — as AI marches on
The Lassonde School of Engineering was featured in the Toronto Star in a piece entitled “Demand for computer scientists surging — not shrinking — as AI marches on”
AI’s rapid advance into computer coding represents a massive shift in how our digital world is evolving, leaving many students and parents wondering — if AI can automate tasks, solve problems and now write code, is computer science still a smart career choice?
All signs point to yes.
AI may be changing how work gets done, but the reality is demand for graduates who can create and govern reliable digital systems is on the rise.
“It’s a really exciting time to be in computer science,” said Emily Kwang, assistant professor of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, at York University’s Lassonde School of Engineering, a top choice for students who want a degree that stays relevant as technology changes.
“The field is changing rapidly, but computer science graduates get to be a part of it. You’re going to be the ones designing the new digital world, building it and shaping the future of how AI-based tools are incorporated into our daily lives,” Kwang said.
Across Canada, labour-market projections show sustained demand for software developers and programmers, with Employment and Social Development Canada expecting 76,300 job openings over the next decade. Canada added 66,600 technology jobs in 2024 alone, at a rate faster than the U.S.
As AI takes on routine tasks, the humans who work in computing can focus on higher-value work, like making sure the systems are safe, secure and private, accessible and inclusive. Computer scientists are needed to make sure the systems work in the real world; a high-value role many say is more fulfilling.
A study by RBC confirms Generative AI doesn’t eliminate the need for computer scientists, it changes what they spend time on. Developers using GenAI completed tasks 56 per cent faster, freeing them for higher-value work like design decisions, testing, and security. The RBC report said GenAI’s productivity boost could add $180 billion a year to Canada’s economy by 2030 — all of that growth powered by people who can build and govern reliable digital systems.
A survey of start-ups cited in the same report found 63 per cent expect AI won’t reduce headcount but expand the job market and improve it.
And it’s not just tech companies driving the demand. Every sector — from healthcare and finance to energy, transportation, media and government — now runs on digital systems.
As demand for software, digital systems and AI-literate talent continues to grow, Lassonde is responding with a range of computing-related programs, including computer science, digital media, computer engineering, software engineering, cybersecurity, and computer science for software development.
Whatever program they choose, students get the strong mix of academic training and hands-on learning they need to adapt as computer science moves toward complex, creative, real-world problem solving. All programs are geared toward preparing students to build technology that works for people.
Students are learning the fundamentals like how software and hardware integrate, how to ensure data quality, how to write and test code, and how to adapt as tools change. In labs and through co-ops and in placements with leaders in the field, they are applying what they learn in the classroom, so they leave ready to explore a wide range of jobs.
Graduates go on to work in areas such as machine learning and robotics, graphics and user interface design, and data mining.
“Computer science is one of the most flexible and transferable fields out there,” said Sukaina Habib, a fourth-year Computer Science student at Lassonde. “I want to build accessible, human-centered systems that improve people’s lives and solve real-world problems. The possibilities are endless.”
Habib said she feels confident she will find her place in the fast-moving digital workforce because of the training and experiences she’s had at York. She has already completed two co-op placements, one as a software developer at BMO and another working in cloud operations at GFL Environmental. She has conducted AI research in the lab, participated in hackathons and completed a capstone project that taught her how to work in multi-disciplinary teams.
Her experience has already attracted attention from top employers. Habib even received several full-time job offers. “I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had, and I hope my story can encourage other students — especially those who are unsure — to explore computer science with confidence,” said Habib.
Now a computer science PhD student, Sai Tedla has interned at some of the world’s largest tech firms over his time at York, including Samsung, Adobe and Sony. His chosen specialty is finding new ways to integrate AI into consumer electronics, specifically cameras.
“All of these projects that I’ve done for modern AI imaging have turned into patents,” he said, including one innovation that animates still photography and creates new ways of experiencing visual memories.
“There has never been a more exciting time to be in computer science than now. We are just scratching the surface of what we can achieve with AI and our computational tools and students will be the ones driving the change,” said Shweta Mahajan, assistant professor, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science at Lassonde.
The school’s Computer Science program is putting students at the forefront of this new technology.
“AI is not a replacement; it’s rather a force multiplier. As AI takes centre stage, we will see more demand for computer science researchers and practitioners who can bridge the gap between different sciences and AI.”
Learn more about the Computer Science program at York University: Computer Science| Future Students | York University
To explore more AI and Computer Science programs offered at York University: AI and Computer Science | Future Students | York University