Core Viewpoint - The computer science and software engineering fields, once considered lucrative and prestigious, are experiencing a decline in job prospects and salaries, leading to concerns about oversupply and diminishing demand in the industry [2][3][19]. Group 1: Salary and Employment Trends - The average monthly salary for computer science graduates has decreased from 8192 yuan to 7639 yuan over the past three years, with the field dropping out of the top ten in salary rankings [3]. - Software engineering has been listed among the poorly performing majors in Hebei Province, with low initial employment rates and high unemployment and waiting rates [5][6]. - In 2024, the number of computer science graduates is projected to be 1.179 million, with approximately 70,000 graduates specializing in computer-related fields, indicating a saturation of the job market [8]. Group 2: Educational Institutions and Enrollment - Many universities are discontinuing computer science and software engineering programs, with 26 software engineering degree points removed in the last five years, the highest among all disciplines [7]. - The number of institutions offering computer science programs has reached 995, with software engineering at 661, and enrollment in these programs continues to expand, particularly in less prestigious universities [9][11]. - Institutions are motivated to expand computer science programs due to high tuition fees, which can significantly boost their revenues [15][17]. Group 3: Job Market Dynamics - A significant portion of computer science graduates (over 30%) are unable to apply their knowledge in the workforce, with 22% citing insufficient skills for relevant positions, a rate higher than the average for engineering graduates [19]. - The rapid evolution of technology means that many graduates are not adequately prepared for the current job market, as academic curricula lag behind industry needs [21][22]. - The demand for traditional software development roles is declining due to advancements in AI and low-code/no-code tools, which are reshaping the industry landscape [22][23]. Group 4: Regulatory Changes and Future Outlook - Education authorities are beginning to regulate the expansion of computer science programs, with several provinces implementing restrictions on new enrollments in these fields due to oversaturation [24][25]. - The computer science profession may be entering a phase of strict control over its growth, similar to the decline seen in civil engineering [26]. - Despite current challenges, emerging technologies such as AI and quantum computing may still present future opportunities for the industry [27].