When families ask me about the volatility in tech, I remind them that this isn’t the first time computer science has faced disruption or skepticism. As an engineering dean and former CS professor, I’ve had a front-row seat for these cycles for more than 30 years, and what has always endured are the evergreen skills that technology can’t replace. Learn why the degree remains valuable, how it continues to deliver strong career and salary outcomes, and how students can pursue it strategically to build future-proof skills in a changing tech landscape.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are being widely applied in nearly every aspect of our modern world. Yet, very few colleges and universities offer a formal AI major or degree. Indeed, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, only twelve US institutions currently offer a formal major in artificial intelligence. Learn about these programs and answers to some common questions about AI, including pathways to a career in AI.

If you have questions about applying to college as a computer science (CS) major, you’ve come to the right place. I’m an engineer, a dean who oversees the CS curriculum in the School of Engineering at Tufts University, a former CS professor, and a college counselor specializing in STEM. I’ve synthesized over 30 years of experience supporting college students majoring in CS to create this complete guide to the college application process for computer science majors.

A strong personal statement (the “college essay”) shows who you are as a person and what makes you unique and different from other students with similar grades, courses, standardized test scores, and activities. A powerful college essay differentiates and individualizes you in the extremely competitive CS application pool. It may persuade an admissions officer that you are a Deep-Fit™ for their institution and boost your chances of acceptance. Learn how to write a standout personal statement as a CS major.

Computer Science skills can be developed through a top-ranked CS program (via a strong CS fingerprint built up in high school), a CS major at a small liberal arts college (perhaps after discovering a CS interest in college), post-baccalaureate or graduate work, a job, and activities. Opportunities abound for someone with talent and a genuine interest in computer science.

The podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in computer science admissions, particularly parents whose children are interested in pursuing computer science as a major. I highlight how to have a strong computer science fingerprint on the college application, why creative students may want to consider computer science, computer science-related majors for students to consider, and advice for navigating this highly competitive major.

Because CS is a discipline overrepresented in the applicant pool, admission as a CS major can be far more competitive than for other majors. Admission to schools as a CS major is supported with clear direction in the field reflected in activities, resume, and coursework: a strong CS “fingerprint.”