Future of Computer Science? This will be Growing Field with Endless Opportunities
I have been discussing with various people at different career stages, including seniors, juniors, and peers from computer science backgrounds. One common question that arises is about which segment of computer science is likely to grow over time.
In the last 2–3 years, large language models have come into the picture, showcasing multi-modal capabilities and impressive coding abilities. This has led to concerns about the future demand for software engineers, as some believe the number of required engineers might decrease. While I can’t comment definitively on what will happen in the coding field, there is one area in computer science that I’m confident will grow exponentially: cybersecurity.
As the digital age progresses, the cybersecurity sector is set to expand rapidly. The penetration of digital technologies in society has been growing exponentially, and with many people unfamiliar with data protection and privacy concepts, the number of cybersecurity incidents and crimes is increasing daily. Institutions are heavily investing in this sector because they recognize that reputational risks and monetary losses associated with cybersecurity breaches can severely impact an organization or individual in an instant.
Cybersecurity is not just about preparing defenses; it’s about empowering individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. It’s a broad field with multiple stages and aspects. One of the exciting things about cybersecurity is that new challenges constantly emerge, requiring different skill sets. As knowledge in one area grows, new fields and challenges arise, making it impossible to claim complete mastery. This constant evolution ensures that there is always more to learn.
While large language models may help people understand cybersecurity concepts, they cannot replace cybersecurity professionals. The field requires extensive hands-on experience, expertise in various tools and technologies, and the ability to train others and prepare defenses. These skills can’t be easily automated or replaced by AI.
For those planning to start their career or considering a switch to another field, I suggest looking into cybersecurity as an option. If it interests you, start by learning the concepts and understanding the security aspects of the systems you currently use. From there, expand your knowledge through courses, workshops, and community groups. This hands-on experience will be invaluable as you progress in the field.
Cybersecurity is an area that will undoubtedly grow significantly in the coming years. It offers numerous opportunities for computer science graduates and professionals looking to specialize in a field with long-term potential and continuous learning opportunities.
