Best undergraduate degree in the dawn of AI?

December 20, 2023

Any science technology engineering or math (STEM) undergraduate degree should work well in this day and age. As technology approaches the beginning of the Artificial Era, humans should remain very flexible when choosing their professions. Prospective college students should also pursue some classes in the humanities and liberal arts to deepen their understanding the human condition. Advances in technology, especially in AI, will prove very challenging to human psychology. An understanding of the human condition may help humans cope with what is to come. 

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in engineering probably represents the best overall value from a statistical point of view. Pursuing degrees related to medical services can also be almost guaranteed to be worthwhile. Last but not least, a foundational degree in computer science should not hurt, and could keep the doors open to many different career paths. 

The economic value of a college education is still undeniable. According to BestColleges.com, a college degree is still a good investment for most people in 2023. College graduates earn more than non-graduates, have a better chance of getting a job, and are less likely to be unemployed. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average weekly earnings in the United States based on education level are:

• High school graduates: $809
• Associate degree graduates: $963
• Bachelor's degree graduates: $1,334

According to a report from the Institute for Higher Education Policy, 83% of schools provide an positive return on investment (ROI) within 10 years. This means that students can recoup what they would be making with a high school diploma plus the cost of their college degree within 10 years. According to CNBC, without factoring in scholarships or other financial aid, the return of a college degree still tends to outweigh the investment.

A college degree is indispensable and required for certain career paths that require graduate education or certain licensing requirements. For example, accountants, engineers, lawyers, psychologists, nurses,  physicians, university professors, etc. cannot be pursued with only a high school diploma. However, a degree isn't necessary for all career paths. There are plenty of trades and businesses that do not require a college education or bachelor's degree. They do require entrepreneurship and smart work.

Regardless of the field of study, humans should commit to lifelong learning, grit, and adaptability. Paradoxically, while technology will keep making things objectively easier and user-friendly, it will keep making life psychologically hard, confusing, and stressful for humans. 

Besides any field in engineering and biomedical sciences, a computer science degree may be the best bet for a foundational undergraduate college education.

Computer Science

A computer science degree is an academic program that focuses on the study of computers, algorithms, data structures, and the principles of computing. In simple terms, a computer is an electronic device that turns input into output. An algorithm is a series of steps or procedural instructions to apply to the input and turn it into output. Data structures are ways of organizing and storing data in a computer (e.g. arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs).

A computer science degree provides students with a solid foundation in various aspects of computer science, including computer theory, programming, hardware, software, and problem-solving. Computer theory is the branch of computer science and mathematics that studies how efficiently problems can be solved using computational algorithms. Computer programming is writing the rules to be followed by computers when processing data input into data output. Hardware is any physical component of a computer from external devices such as a keyboard and mouse to internal devices such as the microchips within the central processing unit (CPU) and the graphics processing unit (GPU); memory drives; the motherboard, etc. Software is any set of programming instructions to be followed by the computer. Computerized problem-solving is converting the steps to perform a task into an algorithm (sequence of steps) that a computer can perform to process certain input into certain output.  

A computer science degree covers foundational and fundamental concepts in the field. This includes understanding the theory behind computation, algorithms, data structures, and automata theory (i.e. mathematical logic of computer operations). Students learn about the mathematical foundations of computer science, which are essential for developing and analyzing programming algorithms.

Computer science programs typically cover all the following:

• Programming and Software Development: A significant part of a computer science degree involves learning various programming languages and software development methodologies. Students gain proficiency in languages like Java, Python, C++, and others. They learn how to design, code, and test software applications.
• Computer Systems: Computer science students also study computer architecture, operating systems, and computer networks. They learn about the hardware components of computers and how they interact with software. Understanding the underlying technology is helps develop efficient and optimized software.
• Data Structures and Algorithms: Computer science programs emphasize data structures and algorithms as they are the building blocks of software development. Students learn how to organize and manipulate data efficiently, and they study basic procedures or algorithms for solving problems computationally.  
• Databases: Database management systems and database design are essential topics in computer science. Students learn how to create, manage, and query databases, which are integral to many software applications.
• Software Engineering: This area of study focuses on the software development process. Students learn about software development methodologies like Agile and Scrum, as well as concepts like software testing, debugging, and project management. [Agile and Scrum are both related to project management: Agile is a project management philosophy that uses a set of values and principles to help teams respond to change. Scrum is an Agile framework that breaks down a project into "sprints" consisting of meetings, roles, and tools to help teams collaborate in project development and execution. Scrum describes the agile steps or "sprints" required for efficient project delivery. In Scrum, product backlog is a master list of work that needs to be done. Product increment is the result of a successful sprint, which is a new software version that contains all of the promised updates and features in the sprint backlog. Sprint backlog is a collection of user stories to be fulfilled within the sprint.]
• Web Development: As web technologies play a significant role in modern computing, computer science programs often cover web development, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and server-side scripting languages.
• Cybersecurity: With the increasing importance of data security, computer science degrees often include courses on cybersecurity. Students learn how to protect computer systems, networks, and data from various threats.
• Electives and Specializations: Depending on the program and university, students may have the opportunity to choose electives and specialize in specific areas of computer science, such as computer graphics, robotics, bioinformatics, or data science.
• Capstone Projects: Many computer science programs require students to complete a capstone project, where they apply their knowledge and skills to solve a real-world problem or develop a significant software application.
• Internships and Practical Experience: Some programs offer internships or co-op opportunities, allowing students to gain real-world experience in the field before graduating.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: More and more, computer science programs are incorporating basic courses in AI and machine learning, where students explore the development of intelligent systems and algorithms that can learn from data.

Overall, a computer science degree equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to work in a wide range of industries, from technology and software development to finance, healthcare, and beyond. It prepares graduates to tackle complex problems, design innovative solutions, and contribute to the advancement of technology in society.