Computer science grads projected to earn highest starting salaries in 2026

The 2026 Winter Salary Survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found employers are continuing to compete for technical talent, offering higher pay to attract graduates with strong computing skills.

Engineering and mathematics rank second and third among the highest-paying majors, with projected starting salaries of $81,198 and $74,184.

NACE collected responses from 150 member organizations between Oct. 8 and Nov. 30, 2025, according to CNBC.

Students at Stanford University in the U.S. Photo courtesy of Stanford University

In terms of hiring demand, bachelor’s degrees in computer science rank as the third most sought-after major, slightly behind finance and mechanical engineering, the report shows. At the graduate level, computer science master’s degrees are the most in-demand credential, outpacing even MBAs, according to Fortune.

The findings come amid growing concerns that automation and artificial intelligence could reduce demand for entry-level software roles. However, the latest NACE data shows that employers still maintain strong demand for graduates with solid technical foundations.

Karim Meghji, CEO and president of tech nonprofit Code.org, said he is not surprised by the continued demand, noting that those with computing skills are well positioned to lead in an AI-driven economy.

"There’s a growing narrative that AI makes computer science obsolete, but it’s just not the case," Meghji said. "AI isn’t killing computer science; it’s making it more essential."

Long-term earnings data also underscores the value of technical degrees. A Federal Reserve Bank of New York report based on 2024 U.S. Census data found computer engineering and computer science to be the highest- and second-highest-paying majors five years after graduation, with median annual earnings of $90,000 and $87,000, and over $120,000 at mid-career for both fields.